Royal Caribbean’s $116 million amplification of Freedom of the Seas brings high-energy features and guest favorites on board.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Debuting a $116 million amplification, Freedom of the Seas is the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s world-class fleet to set sail as part of our return to cruising from the U.S. This is the option of the summer for a short getaway, and you can choose between Freedom’s three- or four-night itineraries to soak up the sun in The Bahamas and on our very own private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Read on to find out why a cruise on Freedom should be at the top of your list:

A redesigned poolscape with all-day Caribbean vibes introduces a larger variety of seating and shade with casitas, daybeds, hammocks and in-pool loungers.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

An All-New Caribbean Poolscape

Freedom delivers on the notion of island time with a redesigned, resort-style pool deck offering plenty of chairs, in-pool loungers, hammocks, day beds and casitas to keep sunbathers cool while sailing. Savor the Caribbean vibes throughout with live music, activities and excitement day to night and even an outdoor movie screen for watching films under the stars. The new signature bar, The Lime & Coconut, is at the center of the action: It spans three levels and serves tropical cocktails that can be sipped on the rooftop sun deck (by day) or moonlit lounge (by night).

The action continues with the debut of dual racer waterslides—Typhoon and Cyclone—at The Perfect Storm. The youngest of travelers have buckets full of memories to make at Splashaway Bay, which features slides, water cannons, fountains, whirlpools and, of course, a drench bucket.

Searching for thrills inside? Rounding out the adventures on board is glow-in-the-dark laser tag, where guests come head to head in Clash for the Crystal City.

Fun fact: Freedom was the first cruise ship (ever) to introduce FlowRider, the iconic, 40-foot-long surf simulator that brings big waves on board. You don’t want to miss it, the rock-climbing wall or the ice-skating rink indoors!

Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen features a reimagined menu of authentic Italian dishes with a contemporary flair.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Elevated Dining

Authentic flavors are sure to have taste buds tingling, beginning with Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, a new take on a guest favorite. This reimagined, rustic spot serves up all the Italian classics—from made-to-order pizzas hand tossed front and center and baked in the new pizza oven, to piping hot pastas—and a wide selection of wines and limoncellos. Chops Grille (a must-try American steakhouse on our ships) is just across the way.

Back on the pool deck, guests can grab fresh Mexican fare from El Loco Fresh, which offers a menu full of favorites like tacos, burritos and quesadillas. No fiesta is complete without tequila—now served at the fully stocked bar—so don’t forget to grab a margarita.

If you’re craving Asian-infused cuisine, Izumi is a reservation worth making. It’s the only spot on board where you can have a meal that doubles as a show! With several hibachi tables, the restaurant serves a variety of hot and cold appetizers, entrees and more, plus there’s an intimate sushi bar. Meanwhile, at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, you’ll find ice-cold brews, the signature Playmakers Burger, buffalo wings and a four-scoop Touchdown Sundae—not to mention arcade and tabletop games, and more than 80 TVs to cheer on your favorite team. If you’re cruising with a large group, reserve the Owner’s Box, an area that seats up to 20.

The award-winning Adventure Ocean program is transformed from top to bottom.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Fun for Kids of All Ages

Freedom delivers on its name when it comes to redefining playtime for young travelers. Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean program takes on a whole new look with spaces that have been entirely transformed from top to bottom. The creative layout encourages kids to venture into a world of interactive experiences—from thought-provoking exploration at Play Place to art, science and tech activities at Workshop—and friendly challenges at Arena. Kicking back is just as fun with gaming consoles and places to chill at Hangout. Babies and 3- to 5-year-olds each have personalized areas with AO Babies and AO Juniors.

The dedicated teen spaces, which have also been completely redesigned, are exclusive venues (complete with an outdoor patio) for guests ages 12 to 17 years old. A secret entrance leads to their lounge with the latest in games, music, movies and more. It’s the perfect spot to make new pals.

This is just a sampling of all that’s in store on the amplified Freedom of the Seas. Book your next tropical vacation aboard this bold, high-energy ship here.