Royal Caribbean International

Enchantment of the Seas

Overview

82,910
Gross Tonnage
2,730
Guest Capacity
1997
Year Built
2012
Last Refit
2.64
Crew Ratio

Since its debut in 1997 and a significant refresh in December 2012, the Enchantment of the Seas has consistently offered a perfect mix of modern features and traditional cruising experiences, all at a mid-range price point. With a capacity of up to 2,446 guests, this Vision-class vessel from Royal Caribbean International stands as a testament to sophisticated design and a heartfelt welcome to a broad spectrum of travelers, including families, couples, and solo adventurers. Despite its relatively modest size in comparison to the behemoths of the modern Royal Caribbean fleet, the Enchantment of the Seas has not only been lengthened in 2005 to accommodate more guests but has also seen substantial enhancements to its amenities.

The ship distinguishes itself through exclusive amenities not typically found on vessels of its size, such as bungee trampolines for the thrill-seekers and an adult-only solarium pool for those in pursuit of peace and quiet. Dining aboard the Enchantment of the Seas is a culinary journey, spanning from the grandeur of the two-tiered main dining room with its stunning sea views to the celebrated variety and excellence of the Windjammer buffet. For an elevated dining experience, specialty restaurants like the Chops Grille steakhouse are available for a nominal fee, promising to satisfy diverse palates and dining preferences. The ship's entertainment and activity lineup is designed to appeal to a wide audience, featuring Broadway-style performances in the Orpheum Theater, a lively casino, and a plethora of daily activities including art auctions and dance classes.

Attracting a largely American demographic, including a notable proportion of first-time cruisers, families, and large groups, the Enchantment of the Seas balances vibrant entertainment and serene hideaways flawlessly. This equilibrium makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a conventional cruise experience with a contemporary flair. The ship's design encourages easy exploration and fosters a community spirit among guests, offering plentiful opportunities for engagement and participation in the myriad onboard activities.

In comparison to others in the industry, and even within its own fleet, Enchantment of the Seas proudly holds its own in delivering a commendable cruise experience. Admittedly, its smaller stature means it doesn't boast the vast array of amenities found on newer giants like the Oasis of the Seas. However, it offers an intimate ambiance that many find appealing. While there are areas that could benefit from modernization, particularly in updating some of the ship's facilities and introducing more current dining and entertainment options, the crew's exceptional service and the overall value of its itineraries, especially for shorter Caribbean cruises, consistently receive high praise.

In summary, the Enchantment of the Seas excels in providing a balanced and enjoyable cruising experience that might lack the glamour of the newer mega-ships but more than makes up for it with its charm, outstanding service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Thanks to thoughtful renovations, it continues to meet modern expectations while maintaining the beloved intimate cruising experience cherished by its devoted passengers. This vessel is the ideal choice for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and mild adventure, presented without the overwhelming scale often found on the industry's largest ships.

Pros

  • Smaller size makes the ship easily manageable for passengers of all ages.
  • Genial onboard atmosphere with excellent service and food.
  • Free onboard activities like rock-climbing and shows in the Orpheum Theater.
  • Less bombardment with extra spending opportunities compared to other ships.

Cons

  • Lacks adventurous attractions like waterslides or ziplines.
  • Limited optional dining venues on board.
  • Starting to show age with wear and tear in public spaces and cabins.
  • No modern amenities like USB outlets by the beds in staterooms.

Tips

  • For a quiet pool experience, utilize the adult-only Solarium pool during designated kids' hours in poor weather.
  • Book cabins on Deck 7 for bigger balconies, especially the aft junior suites.
  • Avoid staterooms on Deck 4 to ensure a quiet sleeping environment away from the theater and casino.
  • Explore free dining options beyond the buffet for high-quality meals, including the main dining room and Park Café.
  • Utilize the free rock-climbing activities, but check the Cruise Compass for operation hours.
  • Make dinner reservations at Chops Grille early to secure a spot and enjoy high-quality steaks.
  • Take advantage of quieter, less crowded times in the Windjammer Marketplace for meals.
  • Participate in evening activities like karaoke in the Spotlight Lounge for unique entertainment.
  • Engage with crew and fellow passengers for a friendlier and more enjoyable experience.
  • Plan around the ship's busiest times, especially on port days, to make the most of the onboard amenities.