Enchantment of the Seas
Enchantment of the Seas sets herself apart from other vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet by offering a laid-back alternative to flashier ships. Those who expect the theme park experience that figures prominently in the cruise line's ads might be surprised to find that the ship doesn't have so much as a water slide, let alone the ice skating rinks, skydiving simulators, and ziplines found on Royal Caribbean's newest ships.
That said, the ship has gorgeous facilities, sparkling pools, and a full-service spa, ensuring that you have everything you need for a fun-filled and relaxing vacation. Most passengers on Enchantment like that the understated layout offers a throwback to a time when cruisers mixed and mingled while playing pool volleyball or competing in a game show.
This ship has a capacity of about 2,500 passengers, which is less than half the number that can be accommodated on Royal Caribbean's largest ships. The smaller size makes it easy to get to know your fellow passengers as well as the crew. The ship's more compact size also makes it easy to navigate, and fewer passengers make for speedier embarking and disembarking. Another unique bonus of sailing on this ship is the fact that since there aren't a ton of competing main dining venues, the kitchen is singularly focused, and the result is food that is one of the highlights of any cruise aboard this ship.
Onboard Experience
Dining
The food in the included dining venues is so good that even the most discerning foodies won't feel like they have to splurge on the specialty restaurants in order to get a decent meal. The buffet is excellent, with global options offering some of the tastiest dishes. If you want to plan a special night out while sailing on the Enchantment of the Seas, you can choose between the ship's two signature specialty restaurants, Chef's Table and Chops Grille. Chef's Table, in particular, offers a truly gourmet experience. Just make sure that you set aside a full three hours so that you can savor the five-course dining experience, which comes with wine pairings curated by your sommelier.
Entertainment
Beginning in the late afternoon, Orpheum Theater, the ship's primary entertainment venue, is where you'll find most of the entertainment action. Once per sailing, there'll be a Newlywed Game-style game show that's always a good time. You'll also find original song-and-dance revues as well as exciting guest performers on the Orpheum's schedule. If you prefer more interactive entertainment, you can grab a mic during karaoke in the Spotlight Lounge or find a spot in the center of the dance floor at the Viking Crown Lounge. Another option is Boleros, a Latin-themed club and lounge that really gets going in the evening. If you're craving a mojito and some salsa dancing, that's the place to be.
Fitness & Recreation
If you want to keep up your exercise routine while at sea, you'll have no trouble finding everything you need in the onboard gym. The Vitality at Sea Fitness Center has plenty of ellipticals, treadmills, and a few recumbent bikes. Strength training machines and free weights are also available as are group fitness classes like spinning, yoga, and Pilates. You can also book individual personal training sessions by the hour. If you'd rather enjoy the ocean breeze while you work out, you'll want to take advantage of the ship's ¼ mile jogging track on Deck 10 or give the ship's rock-climbing wall a try.
Spa
Open from 8am to 10pm each day, the Vitality at Sea Spa is a tranquil oasis, the ideal spot for a little pampering. Enchantment's onboard spa has a full menu of therapeutic services. There are plenty of treatment rooms, but no sauna, steam room, or thermal suite. Whether you opt for a massage, scrub, wrap, or facial, you're sure to leave feeling rejuvenated. You can also opt to book more technical treatments like teeth whitening and Botox.
Shopping
When you're ready to do a little shopping, make your way to the Centrum Shops on Deck 6. Located between the Orpheum Theater and the Spotlight Lounge, these boutiques offer everything from Royal Caribbean-branded gear to luxury watches, not to mention that toothbrush you forgot to pack. If you're looking for a special souvenir on your cruise vacation, check out the art gallery, which is also located on Deck 6 alongside the ship's photo shop. As long as the ship is at sea, everything purchased onboard Enchantment of the Seas is tax and duty-free, so it's the perfect opportunity to splurge. Finally, while you have to wait until you disembark for the last time to collect it, many guests opt to stock up on liquor in order to save the sales tax.
Kids
Given its smaller size, Enchantment doesn't have all the amusement park-style amenities of larger ships, but Royal Caribbean's award-winning Adventure Ocean program is alive and well, and a range of affordable itineraries make the ship a great option for families. In addition to the main pool, which kids are welcome to use, the Jump Zone, a super-sized trampoline, and the fully-loaded arcade are the most popular spots for younger guests. Adventure Ocean provides exciting, educational activities that allow younger cruisers to meet and have fun together while Mom and Dad enjoy a little downtime. It is available to potty-trained tykes over the age of three.
Casino
Royal Caribbean's signature Casino Royale takes up the majority of the midship space between the Orpheum Theater and the My Fair Lady dining area on Deck 5. The casino aboard the Enchantment of the Seas is packed with tables and slot machines with bets as low as one cent, so even the most risk-averse can dance with Lady Luck. If you've never so much as placed a bet, you can take advantage of complimentary lessons. If you're a more experienced gambler who is feeling lucky, you can join one of the regularly scheduled tournaments. Thanks to the wide variety of game play choices, there is sure to be something for everyone.
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