Carrying a maximum of 6,300 passengers, it is fair to say that the Allure of the Seas is gigantic. Until a recent tour, I didn’t quite get the impressive size and features of this magnificent ship. Even the terminal, purpose-built for the Allure of the Seas and her sister, the Oasis of the Seas, is enormous.
Upon boarding, I entered the promenade, and the first thing I saw was a waterfall where the Rising Tide Bar should be. The Rising Tide Bar moves from deck 5, where I was standing, to deck 8, at Central Park (more on that in a moment). A moving bar? That is cool.
Alas, there was no time to stop for a beverage, as I had an entire ship to see, and not much time. I headed straight to the Boardwalk. The Boardwalk is the rear center section of the ship, and it is open to outside. It is Coney Island meets technology, with a carousel, shops, and restaurants. Even farther aft are the two, yes two, rock climbing walls, the zip line, and the low rider surf simulator. Let me just let that sink in for a moment: this ship is so large, you can zip line your way across.
You’ll also find a kid’s water park and miniature golf. Lining the boardwalk for several decks upwards, are Boardwalk Balcony Staterooms. These balconies do not offer ocean views, rather, the Boardwalk below. (Yes, you can see people zip lining from your balcony.) They also offer front row seating for shows taking place along the Boardwalk. Not to worry, though, the doors are soundproofed, so if you prefer to sleep, you won’t hear anything from below.
The AquaTheater is the largest entertainment venue in the Boardwalk, seating 600 passengers and offering diving shows that are must-see events.
Central Park, a neighborhood mid-ship and forward on Deck Eight, is just the opposite of the Boardwalk. With meandering paths through the perfectly manicured greenery, it is calm and soothing. Upscale shops line the park, and this is where you will find the upscale wine bar, Vintages. Additionally, many specialty restaurants are located in Central Park, including Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, and Giovanni’s Table. Between the restaurants, in the middle of the park, you can find the Rising Tide Bar, when it has made its way up from Deck 5. Central Park also sports many balcony rooms offering views of the lush greens below. It is a serene and bucolic setting in the middle of the ocean.
Entertainment options abound on the massive Allure of the Seas. See Broadway shows, like Mamma Mia!, hit the comedy club or jazz club, catch a movie, or watch an ice skating show (or, go ice skating yourself). Whatever you choose to do, the options are seemingly endless. There is even an adults-only serene area, complete with a pool and hot tubs, forward on deck eleven. And, if all this seems a bit much, there is an extensive spa and fitness center where you can recharge from your exhausting vacation.
Bottom line: while a mega-ship like this may not be for everyone, if you are the type that enjoys constant entertainment, an abundance of dining venues and choices, and action-packed activities, the Allure of the Seas, her sister ship the Oasis of the Seas, and now the Harmony of the Seas may be for you. As a full-service travel professional, I can help you plan the vacation of a lifetime. Give me a call to plan your next great adventure!
