Independence of the Seas
This is a firm “no” to FOMO. Independence of the Seas® is giving cruising an injection of new adventures. Go head to head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag clash in Battle for Planet Z℠. And score an awesome time and game-changing grub at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade.
Roundtrip From:Southampton, England
Visiting:
Departs at 5:00 PM
Located on England's South Coast, Southampton is a city full of surprises. Home to one of the largest ports in Europe, the city has a lot to offer people passing through for the day. Step back in time and explore the old town — walk along the medieval town walls, parts of which date back to 1290. Visit Bargate, a medieval gatehouse built by Normans in the 12th century. Check out SeaCity Museum and learn about what it would have been like to set sail on the Titanic in 1912 — Southampton is where the historic ship left port. Or venture out and explore the Hampshire countryside: Iconic Stonehenge is just a one-hour drive away.
Located just an hour from Southampton, Stonehenge is one of the most well-known prehistoric sites in all of Europe. Wander around the miraculous stone circle and transport yourself back in time when Neolithic engineers used only simple tools to build the huge monument — it's believed they hauled those massive stones over 240 miles from Wales without the use of machines.
Step back into the medieval era and walk the old walls of the city. Built to protect the town from attack by sea, most of the wall is still standing, leaving visitors a spectacular view of Southampton and the sea. Watch as boats enter the port city, and see how it would have been if you were a knight on watch hundreds of years ago.
Shop for big-name brands galore at Westquay Shopping Centre, the premier shopping destination of the South Coast. Head to Bedford Place for independent shops and boutiques — the country's oldest traditional shoemaker is located here. On weekends, wander down the road to Bar Street to check out the local market for antiques, crafts, vintage accessories and jewelry.
Southampton is home to one of the largest ports in the UK and millions of travelers pass through each year. In 1912, the most famous of those travelers would pass through as they set out to America onboard the Titanic. Southampton's SeaCity museum gives you the opportunity to learn more about the events that happened aboard that famous ship.
Head to the pub for a refreshing glass of ale to pair with crispy, mouthwatering fish and chips. If fried food isn't your thing, go in for a salad with fresh watercress, the peppery green that the Hampshire region is famous for. You'll also find upscale fare based on England's most-loved flavors: Try chicken with Indian-inspired vegetable pakora and tandoori puree or braised Hampshire beef with ale cream.
Grab your bravest friend and challenge them to a test of speed. The ride of your life awaits on twin racers Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠ — part of The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea. As you speed through, long, translucent stretches offer sea views as exhilarating as the ride itself.
Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Two forces clash in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag faceoff for control of the last planet for light years around. Will your team claim it? Take aim and find out in Battle for Planet Z℠.
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The new and the old meet head-on in Bilbao — the unofficial capital of Basque country in Spain's northwest, near southern France. Once an industrial capital, the opening of the Guggenheim in 1997 propelled Bilbao into a hub of outstanding art, architecture and gastronomy. Today, modern trams travel on historic avenues like the Siete Calles ("Seven Streets") of Casco Viejo — Bilbao's medieval quarter, which today is dotted with boutiques, bakeries and outdoor cafes. Meanwhile, futuristic buildings like the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum and the Gran Hotel Domine hang over the Nervion river that runs through the city. There's no other city with such a polarity of scenes in Spain. Get onboard a Spain cruise and see for yourself why Bilbao is the pride and joy of Basque Country.
Bilbao may be famous for architecture, but the rolling green hills, panoramic coastline and lush plazas will enchant you as well. Reach Mount Artxanda by cable car for sweeping vistas of the city. Walk by ponds and fountains at Parque de Dona Casilda de Iturrizar, and reach the riverside walkways for close-up urban views of Bilbao.
Insider tip
Don't miss Bilbao's outskirts — check out the coastal suburb Getxo, a 25-minute train ride away, which offers lush green mountains and ocean views.
Take in the monumental beauty of the Guggenheim by first exploring the outside. You'll see how architect Frank Gehry blended titanium, glass and limestone to conceive elegant curves and sharp edges in this masterpiece of modernity. Then, head inside to see the other masterpieces created by legends like Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro and more.
Insider tip
Instead of taking a cab or renting a car, discover Bilbao more intimately by bike.
In Bilbao, you do your shopping on historic streets and sprawling urban areas, with hidden gems in between. Go to the old town and look for the classic botas (wineskin flasks), txapelas (berets) or pañuelos (kerchiefs). Head north to the Abando district for modern shops offering more contemporary wares.
Check out the Euskal Museoa and the Arkeologi Museoa for a look into the Basque Country's past. Cruise to Spain to stroll down medieval streets in Casco Viejo, the historical center of Bilbao, or down the Gran Via boulevard for a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, who are usually moving from one pintxos (tapas) tavern to the next.
Insider tip
Follow the locals and hop from one pintxos bar to the next, sampling a variety of dishes.
Food is a pastime in Bilbao. Sample bacalao al pil pil (cod with garlic), Marmitako (tuna and vegetable stew) and savory pintxos, the local version of tapas. Stop by El Globo and La Barraca for a quick bite-sized dish, or head to Mina and Azurmendi for Michelin-starred experiences.
With a menu of game-day favorites and icy-cold draughts on tap, anything you order at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade is a winner. And while you’re working on a signature Playmakers Burger or the five-scoop Touchdown Sundae, you can catch your home team live on dozens of screens or face off against your friends in the arcade.
Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.
Savor delicious fare at Fish & Ships℠, a seaside seafood spot that’s just steps from the pool. No need to hop across the pond for a basket of freshly battered cod and hand cut fries. You can get the British classic comfort food right here, plus crispy calamari, savory battered sausage, and even a frosty pint of brew.
Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
From 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Lisbon is a quintessential European city, full of natural beauty, historic architecture and culinary pleasures — not to mention one of the best climates anywhere on the planet. To get to know Portugal's capital, walk between the captivating miradouros — terrace viewpoints that are scattered on the hilltops, offering stunning vistas from the sea to the castles and beyond. Watch as the light peeks through the clouds and shines down on The City of Seven Hills during your cruise to Lisbon. If you're a history buff, head to Belem or nearby Sintra to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Jeronimos Monastery and Quinta da Regalaira.
Step into the pages of a fairy tale in Sintra, a UNESO World Heritage Site a short ride from Lisbon. The city's awash in colorful buildings and grand forts, including the Romanticist architecture of the pastel-hued Pena Palace — more like a castle, really — and the extravagant Quinta da Regalaira villa. Or, wander through gardens inspired by Dante's "Inferno."
Insider tip
Tram 28 is the best-known tram line, taking riders through all the must-see neighborhoods, but the trolleys fill up quickly. Opt for a lesser known route to avoid crowds.
History buffs should head to Belem. See the 16th-century Manueline architecture of the Jeronimos Monastery. Lisbon, Portugal cruises will allow you to visit the final resting place of explorer Vasco de Gama before walking to the river to snap a photo of the Torre de Belem, a 16th-century fort that appears to float in the ocean.
Browse eclectic clothes and jewelry in the backstreets of Bairro Alto. Feira da Ladra, or "thieves' market," is the place to go for handmade crafts and antiques. Looking for a high street? Walk down Chiado or Avenida da Liberdade to shop international brands.
There's no other way to explore Lisbon than to see it from the miradouros, the hilltop lookout points scattered around the city. Ride the Santa Justo Lift to catch a glimpse of the city below. Enjoy an evening drink at the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. Finally, watch the sunset behind the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge.
Insider tip
Pick up a Lisboa Card for discounts and free entry to big tourist attractions and public transport.
You'll find plenty of Portuguese delicacies around Lisbon. Follow the locals to the nearest food truck for a bifana, a sandwich of pork marinated in white wine and garlic sauce. Snack on salty sardines over a glass of wine, or devour a pasteis de nata, the famous egg tart that packs a creamy, cinnamon-infused custard in a crisp shell.
Live out your primetime dreams of dancing with the stars as a select few guests are invited to learn ballroom and Latin dance for a high-energy final production.
Whether it’s malbec, merlot, riesling or pinot grigio, you’re sure to find all your beloved reds or whites at Vintages wine bar. From France to California, the wide world of wine is well-represented through extensive partnerships with top winemakers, including some exclusive bottles you won't find anywhere else.
Whether you’re stopping by for an after dinner drink or joining the salsa-stepping party, nighttime sizzles at Boleros. This Latin-themed club serves up Cuban mojitos, Brazilian caipirinhas, and your favorite classic cocktails to the sound of a four-piece band playing salsa, cumbia, merengue, samba and more.
Royal Caribbean is the first and only cruise line with ice-skating rinks right onboard, plus complimentary ice spectaculars with amazing jumps, lifts, and spins performed by professional skaters .
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, is home to gorgeous aquamarine seas, white-sand beaches and nearly year-round sunshine. From that even arose a series of black-ash vineyards that now produce award-winning wines — not to mention strange, haunting beauty. UNESCO has dubbed the island a biosphere reserve protected site, and its remote, wild beaches are the perfect place for a surfing excursion or a simple afternoon spent relaxing at what feels like the edge of the world.
The small, 15th-century town of Teguise was the original capital of Lanzarote, and colonial mansions still line its cobblestone streets. Costa Teguise is a quiet tourist resort with strict policies about sustainable development, so it's maintained its old charm while also offering visitor amenities.
Insider tip
The best way to explore the island is by renting a car, and bike rentals are also popular and easy.
Everywhere in Lanzarote, you'll find fresh fish such as dorado (sea bream), vieja (parrot fish) and cherne (sea bass), often simply grilled and served with small potatoes and local greens. The condiment of choice is red or green mojo sauce, made with chilis grown in the rich volcanic soil — drizzle it over your fish and potatoes, or slather it on bread. Wash it down with glass of local malvasia, a white wine with tropical fruit notes that can be either dry or semi-sweet.
You'll see the work of local artist Cesar Manrique around Lanzarote, and you can visit his striking home, built into boulders in a lava field. This extravagant cave now serves as a foundation dedicated to his life and art. Works by his contemporaries, such as Tapies, Millares and Picasso, are also exhibited there.
Insider tip
There are plenty of reasonably priced taxis.
Much of Lanzarote's shopping is centered in the capital city of Arrecife, where you'll find plenty of small, outdoor markets where you should expect to haggle. Look for locally made lacework, pottery, woven baskets, decorative fans and jewelry crafted from the green, volcanic gemstone called olivine.
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Canary Islands sit more than 1,000 miles from mainland Spain — but as your ship docks at the largest island, Tenerife, you'll feel like you've entered another world. Exploring the island's diverse nature will reinforce this: The landscape here ranges from to deserts to dense forests to spectacular beaches. Cool off in the Bajamar natural salt-water pools, or go scuba-diving among octopus and barracudas in Tabaiba. When you're tuckered out from your adventure, head to a seaside restaurant for a glass of sangria and crusty bread slathered with almagrote, a local hard-cheese spread flavored with tomato, garlic and paprika.
If culture and history are your thing, there's plenty in Santa Cruz-proper to keep you stimulated. Make a stop at the illuminating Natural History Museum or the Basilica de Candelaria shrine, which only dates back to 1959 but manages to feel older in decidedly modern Santa Cruz.
Insider tip
Tenerife looks small on the map, but the island's mountainous terrain and developing infrastructure can make journeys here longer than you might imagine, so plan accordingly.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a mix of traditional Spanish food and local Canarian food. It's just as easy, for example, to find a restaurant that serves small-plate tapas and sweet sangria as it is to enjoy Sancocho, a bass filet served with boiled potatoes and spicy mojo sauce. Follow up a filling meal with a shot of Cobana, a banana liquor native to the Canary Islands.
While most of Tenerife's best beaches are far outside the center of Santa Cruz, you have a couple of options a short taxi or bus ride away. The most popular is Las Teresitas, whose golden sands look particularly striking contrasted with the crystalline blue water that laps at them.
Insider tip
If you happen to visit Tenerife in February, make sure to check out the island's annual Carnival, a raucous event not to be missed.
If you like bargaining, try your luck at Mercado Municipal Nuestra Senora de Africa, open every day until 2:30 p.m. Here, you'll find local handicrafts like ceramic dishware made from volcanic stone, as well as clothing and shoes at wholesale prices. Sunday afternoons, there's a flea market near Santa Cruz's main station.
From 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Portugal's island of Madeira is an adventure junkie's paradise. Explore this unique island by land, sea or air. Trek the levandas, the island's open canal system, and take in panoramic views of the mountains and the ocean. Dive into the deep blue sea to swim with fish and rare seals with your Madeira cruise. If you're looking for something to spike your adrenaline, soar above the island while hang-gliding or paragliding. In the mood for more low-key exploration? Stop by a local bakery for a slice of queijada, a regional cheescake, and walk along the harbor in Funchal, taking in the 17th-century architecture.
A trip to Madeira isn't complete until you've walked along a levanda. With over 3,000 kilometers of irrigation channels around the island, the routes are endless. Wander deep into chasms, across mountains or through long tunnels, and discover some of the best views on the island.
Insider tip
Travel from mid-April to mid-May to see the flower festival.
Take to the sky to catch a glimpse of Madeira Island from above. Adrenaline junkies will soar through the heavens while hang-gliding or paragliding over massive mountains and bewitching blue waters. First-timers are welcome, and tandem options with a guide are available.
Shop till you drop on Funchal's main streets. Find regional goods, Portuguese delicacies and international shops in the capital city. For a more local feel, head to Feira da Lagartixa. Cruise to Madeira and try your bartering skills at the flea market on Saturdays, and discover unique treasures to bring back home with you.
Strap on your diving gear and jump into the crystal-clear waters of Madeira. Explore shipwrecks like Bowbelle, and observe sea life like anemones, fish and seals with a front-row seat to one of the best diving locations in all of Europe.
Insider tip
There are nine tourism offices in Madeira if you need some local information.
On Madeira island, you'll find plenty of fresh seafood to sink your teeth into. Try filete de espada, a swordfish filet prepared the Madeiran way, with passion fruit and banana sauce. If that's too sweet for you, try the smoky espetada madeirense, beef cubes on a skewer cooked over wood or charcoal. Got a sweet tooth? Cruise to Madeira to try bolo de mel de cana, the local honey cake.
Grab your bravest friend and challenge them to a test of speed. The ride of your life awaits on twin racers Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠ — part of The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea. As you speed through, long, translucent stretches offer sea views as exhilarating as the ride itself.
Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Two forces clash in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag faceoff for control of the last planet for light years around. Will your team claim it? Take aim and find out in Battle for Planet Z℠.
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
From 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Perched on a rocky peninsula in Spain's northwest, La Coruna is brimming with ancient Roman heritage and maritime history. Head to the Crystal City, located right near the harbor, and check out the galerias — the city is famous for these 19th-century enclosed glass balconies that reflect the glittering waters of the Atlantic. Then, walk the Paseo Maritimo: The promenade will take you past ocean views to the Cidade Vella, the city's old town full of remnants of the ancient and medieval past. Walk along the still-standing remnants of the city's Roman Wall, and climb the green hill to the Tower of Hercules — a Roman lighthouse that's been in active use since the second century A.D.
Visit the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising between Orzan Bay and Artabro Gulf, it's one of the oldest working lighthouses in the world. It's said that Ireland was discovered from the top of the tower — try to spot it from while you're at the top. Inside you can see remains of its Roman building materials.
Insider tip
Most shops close for an afternoon siesta of two to three hours.
Local shellfish is king in La Coruna. Try pulpo a la gallega, Galician-style octopus served with potatoes and spiced with paprika. Explore Calle Estrella, La Coruna's hot spot for tapas. Must-try small plates include navajas — steamed razor clams — and tequenos, a flash-fried dough stuffed with melty cheese. Wash it all down with the city's signature beer, Estrella Galicia.
Insider tip
Get away from the seafront to eat. The food will be just as tasty — but it'll be about half the price.
Bring a picnic to the former military fort Monte de San Pedro. Today, the site is a picturesque park where you'll find a maze made of Italian plants, a duck pond, a children's playground and a panoramic elevator that takes you up high for the city's best views.
Insider tip
Most smaller markets (where you can haggle on prices) and souvenir shops will only take cash, not credit cards.
You'll find good shopping just off the Calle San Andres. La Coruna's Marineda City, not far from the heart of the city, is Spain's largest shopping center complex. It offers shops, restaurants, an ice rink and a movie theater. Calle Real has luxury shops that sell antiques, jewelry, fashion and traditional hand-painted ceramics.
With a menu of game-day favorites and icy-cold draughts on tap, anything you order at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade is a winner. And while you’re working on a signature Playmakers Burger or the five-scoop Touchdown Sundae, you can catch your home team live on dozens of screens or face off against your friends in the arcade.
Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.
Savor delicious fare at Fish & Ships℠, a seaside seafood spot that’s just steps from the pool. No need to hop across the pond for a basket of freshly battered cod and hand cut fries. You can get the British classic comfort food right here, plus crispy calamari, savory battered sausage, and even a frosty pint of brew.
Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Arrives at 5:30 AM
Located on England's South Coast, Southampton is a city full of surprises. Home to one of the largest ports in Europe, the city has a lot to offer people passing through for the day. Step back in time and explore the old town — walk along the medieval town walls, parts of which date back to 1290. Visit Bargate, a medieval gatehouse built by Normans in the 12th century. Check out SeaCity Museum and learn about what it would have been like to set sail on the Titanic in 1912 — Southampton is where the historic ship left port. Or venture out and explore the Hampshire countryside: Iconic Stonehenge is just a one-hour drive away.
Located just an hour from Southampton, Stonehenge is one of the most well-known prehistoric sites in all of Europe. Wander around the miraculous stone circle and transport yourself back in time when Neolithic engineers used only simple tools to build the huge monument — it's believed they hauled those massive stones over 240 miles from Wales without the use of machines.
Step back into the medieval era and walk the old walls of the city. Built to protect the town from attack by sea, most of the wall is still standing, leaving visitors a spectacular view of Southampton and the sea. Watch as boats enter the port city, and see how it would have been if you were a knight on watch hundreds of years ago.
Shop for big-name brands galore at Westquay Shopping Centre, the premier shopping destination of the South Coast. Head to Bedford Place for independent shops and boutiques — the country's oldest traditional shoemaker is located here. On weekends, wander down the road to Bar Street to check out the local market for antiques, crafts, vintage accessories and jewelry.
Southampton is home to one of the largest ports in the UK and millions of travelers pass through each year. In 1912, the most famous of those travelers would pass through as they set out to America onboard the Titanic. Southampton's SeaCity museum gives you the opportunity to learn more about the events that happened aboard that famous ship.
Head to the pub for a refreshing glass of ale to pair with crispy, mouthwatering fish and chips. If fried food isn't your thing, go in for a salad with fresh watercress, the peppery green that the Hampshire region is famous for. You'll also find upscale fare based on England's most-loved flavors: Try chicken with Indian-inspired vegetable pakora and tandoori puree or braised Hampshire beef with ale cream.
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