The cruise ships Freedom-class Independence of the Seas

The cruise ship Independence of the Seas is the third of the Freedom Class vessels. In 2009, the first in a new Oasis Class of ships is slated to displace the Freedom class as the world's largest passenger ships. Independence of the Seas, as of current, is the world's largest passenger cruise ship.

The cruise ship Independence of the Seas

The cruise ship Independence of the Seas features an interactive water park (including the Flow Rider onboard wave generator for surfing), a dedicated sports pool (for volleyball and basketball), and whirlpools which extend from the ship's sides. An internal street lined with shops, pubs and wine bars. An innovative «bridge» can be lowered from the ceiling void to provide a performance space above the crowds. A three story theatre the Alhambra seating 1200, there is a complete conference centre, the show cabaret lounge is based on an ancient Egyptian theme, known as the Prymid Lounge. A brand new Mortag sports car is bolted to the floor outside of the vintages wine bar. On a lower level is an ice skating rink (home to a series of highly professional ice shows) and also available for personal skating. She also features a coffee shop and bookstore, Sorrento's Pizzeria, and a Ben and Jerry's ice cream shop. Other amenities will be a rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, Wi-Fi capabilities throughout the ship, flat screen televisions in all staterooms, and cell phone connectivity. The cruise ship Independence of the Seas is also the first Royal Caribbean Line to feature heated, fresh water pools.

Portofino

Independence of the Seas Explore with Ed

Flowrider on Independence of the seas

The cruise ship Independence of the Seas is based at Southampton, United Kingdom. After doing some preview sailings from Oslo, Norway, Southampton, UK and Hamburg, Germany, her itineraries will alternate between Mediterranean treasures and Italian Mediterranean itineraries, both 14 nights in length. She will also do three 4-night sailings to Cork, Ireland. In the Autumn she will do three 11-night sailings to the Canary Islands. During the winter months Independence of the Seas will be based at Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Independence of the Seas arrived today at her new home in Southampton

The cruise ship Independence of the Seas general characteristics:

• Tonnage — 154,407 GT
• Length — 338.92 m (1,111.9 ft)
• Beam — 38,6 m (127 ft) hull, 56m (180 ft) extreme width of superstructure
• Draft — 8,8m (29 ft)
• Capacity — 4,370 passengers, crew — 1,360.