Our Experience on Ovation of the Seas: What We Loved About This Royal Caribbean Ship

From skydiving at sea to sipping mojitos under the setting sun, our time aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas was nothing short of incredible. This Quantum Class ship checks every box with its blend of innovation, comfort, adventure, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after you return home. 

 We had the exciting opportunity to sail during the ship’s inaugural voyage from Los Angeles, marking its first-ever deployment on the West Coast. For a limited two-month season, Ovation of the Seas is offering unforgettable cruises to Mexico – and we were there to experience it all firsthand.

As we put it, “Ovation of the Seas is truly a next-level ship. What really sets it apart is how it makes you feel like you're part of something special.”

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or getting ready for your very first sailing, this is your complete look at what it’s like to experience Ovation of the Seas. We’re sharing our favorite highlights, helpful tips, and everything you need to know about life aboard this spectacular floating resort. 

Ovation of the Seas isn’t just a cruise ship. It’s a floating city filled with thrill rides, world-class dining, and nonstop views that make every turn feel like a postcard moment. Since its debut in 2016, this Quantum Class beauty has been wowing guests with its size and surprises. It’s over 1,100 feet long and features 16 decks, but everything is laid out so thoughtfully that exploring it just feels like part of the adventure.

What can you expect on board? How about RipCord by iFLY, where you can experience skydiving without leaving the ship. Or North Star, a glass capsule that lifts you 300 feet above sea level for some of the most incredible views imaginable. Then there’s Two70, an entertainment venue where live performances, robotics, and digital projections come together in a show you’ll be talking about long after the curtain falls.

And the best part? There is always something fun to discover. One moment you might be lounging with a cocktail in the peaceful Solarium, and the next you’re spinning bumper cars in SeaPlex or settling in for a spectacular show at the Royal Theater. It’s the kind of ship where every day brings a new highlight.

We stayed in a Balcony cabin on Deck 11, which turned out to be the perfect location. It was close to the elevators but still quiet and tucked away. The ocean views were spectacular, and the bed was honestly one of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in on a ship.

Ovation of the Seas offers a variety of accommodations to match every type of traveler. Interior rooms come with clever features like Virtual Balconies that project real-time ocean views. Ocean View cabins provide large windows and plenty of natural light. Balcony rooms offer your own private front-row seat to the sea. For an elevated escape, the Suite Class includes spacious layouts, exclusive dining at Coastal Kitchen, and family-friendly extras such as the Ultimate Family Suite with an in-room slide.

No matter which option you choose, the cabins are thoughtfully designed to be both stylish and comfortable. They are the perfect place to relax and recharge between adventures.

Dining on Ovation of the Seas is an experience all its own, offering a global array of flavors and settings that turn every meal into a memorable occasion. With more than a dozen restaurants and culinary options onboard, there’s something to satisfy every craving, from upscale date nights to laid-back bites with ocean views.

Our personal standouts included:

• Jamie’s Italian for the warm bread, fresh pasta, and perfectly chilled wine.

• Wonderland, which felt like stepping into another dimension. It was creative, surprising, and yes, delicious.

• Windjammer Marketplace for breakfast, where the scent of croissants, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit made every morning feel like a feast.

And let’s not forget our room service breakfast on the balcony. Watching the waves while sipping coffee is now our new standard for starting the day.

“The dining on Ovation was a highlight of the trip. Whether we were enjoying a fine dining experience in an upscale restaurant or grabbing a quick bite with an ocean view, every meal felt like its own little celebration.”

Entertainment and leisure aboard Ovation of the Seas go far beyond the traditional cruise experience. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, soaking in world-class shows, or unwinding in a peaceful spa sanctuary, this ship delivers a seamless mix of high-energy fun and total relaxation.

Want to relax? Head to the adults only Solarium or unwind in the Vitality Spa with a massage. Prefer to turn up the energy? Book a time for RipCord by iFLY. We did it on the second sea day and it was perfect timing with no lines. Or hit SeaPlex for bumper cars and more.

“The shows onboard were seriously amazing. There was something for everyone, from Broadway style shows to high energy acts that had us hooked. Every night brought something new and exciting.”

One evening, as we sailed away from Ensenada, the pool deck transformed into a tropical party. A live DJ played upbeat tunes while the sun dipped low, casting golden light across the ocean. We sipped frozen mojitos and let the moment sink in. It was pure cruise magic.

Ovation of the Seas is celebrated for its incredible itineraries that showcase some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. This ship is designed to bring you closer to the wonders of nature and the richness of global cultures, all while offering a luxurious and adventure-filled experience at sea.

Depending on the season, Ovation of the Seas sails to some truly unforgettable destinations:

• Alaska’s Inside Passage with glacier sightings, whale watching, and charming frontier towns like Juneau and Skagway.

• Mexico, where you can relax on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas or stroll through the vibrant streets of Ensenada.

• Asia, with stops in Singapore, Penang, and Phuket, offering a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine, and coastline.

Each itinerary offers a mix of shore excursions, relaxation, and jaw-dropping views – and Ovation ensures the journey is just as unforgettable as the destination.

Ovation of the Seas offers a little something for everyone. Families appreciate the kid-friendly activities at SeaPlex, youth programs in Adventure Ocean, and flexible dining options. Couples enjoy romantic dinners, spa days, and peaceful retreats like the adults-only Solarium. For adventure-seekers, the ship delivers with skydiving, surfing, and destination excursions that turn every day into a new thrill.

“My time onboard Ovation of the Seas was absolutely incredible. From setting sail in LA to exploring the lively port of Ensenada, every moment felt like a fresh, exciting experience. It’s hard not to be in awe of everything this ship has to offer.”

Whether you want high energy, total relaxation, or something in between, this ship makes it easy to find your perfect cruise rhythm.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable escape aboard Ovation of the Seas? Connect with an Avoya Travel Vacation Planner today and let’s turn your dream cruise into reality.