October 24, 2019
(12:43 p.m. EDT) -- When Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas launches in November 2020, the cruise ship will include new-to-the-line experiences, such as a virtual and augmented reality playground and two-level pool deck, and existing passenger favorites, including the FlowRider, RipCord by iFly, SkyPad bungee trampoline experience and dining venues such as Giovanni's Kitchen and Chop's Grille.
"Odyssey of the Seas will set an all-new standard created to deliver the most memorable vacations by combining immersive experiences, the best of Royal Caribbean's trendsetting innovations and the signature 'Royal Way' service of our dedicated crew members," Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, said of the cruise line’s second Quantum Ultra class ship (but first to sail in North America).
A New SeaPlex
One of the highlights of Odyssey of the Seas will be the reimagined SeaPlex, Royal Caribbean’s signature indoor activity space. Dominating the upper level of SeaPlex will be virtual reality playground for individual and group play, and augmented reality walls and floors for high-tech competitions and family games. The lower level will feature SeaPlex favorites including a full-sized sports court with bumper cars, and trapeze classes.
SeaPlex will also be used for the glow-in-the-dark Clash for the Crystal City laser tag experience, found on many of the line's other ships.
Also located within SeaPlex will be the line's popular Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Here, cruisers will find tons of TVs for watching their favorite sports teams, as well as pub grub including Buffalo wings, sliders and the Playmakers Burger, along with ice-cold beer. Playmakers will also have classic board and boardwalk games, as well as billiards and pub trivia.
Top Deck Fun
Odyssey's top decks will have all the adrenaline-pumping action the Quantum-class ships are known for, including the FlowRider surf simulator, RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, 40-foot rock climbing wall and North Star glass sightseeing capsule. New to the class will be a SkyPad, the bungee trampoline virtual reality experience that can be found on Independence of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas.
The pool deck will be similarly packed, so much so, that it will take up two levels and offer two open-air, resort-style pools and four whirlpools, surrounded by lounge chairs, shady casitas and hammocks. Near the pools will be the line's new signature pool deck bar, The Lime & Coconut, serving up two stories of pool-front views and liquid fun.
Also nearby will grab-and-go -- and complimentary -- Mexican fare from El Loco Fresh.
For the younger cruisers, Splashaway Bay features colorful waterslides, fountains, water cannons and more.
Adults seeking an outdoor respite from all the activity can retreat to the Solarium, which will also have swimming pools, hot tubs, day beds and a full-service bar.
Dining & Bars
Cruisers on Odyssey of the Seas will be spoiled for choice when it comes to food and drink. In addition to the previously mentioned El Loco Fresh and Playmakers, will be some of the line's most popular dining venues including Izumi, Chop's Grille, Wonderland and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.
New for the North American market will be Teppanyaki, a hibachi-style Japanese eatery.
Though full details of the lounges onboard are yet to be revealed, Royal Caribbean did reveal the ship will offer the line's Instagram-worthy Bionic Bar.
Entertainment
When it comes to entertainment, Odyssey of the Seas will feature several Quantum-class classics including the Two70 multi-dimensional theater and Music Hall.
Odyssey of the Seas debuts in November 2020 in Fort Lauderdale with six- and eight-night Caribbean itineraries, before moving to Rome in May 2021 where it will be the first Quantum Ultra Class ship to sail Europe in the summer.