By Amanda Mesa | Published on January 11, 2024
One of my favorite things about any vacation is the planning process. Now, I know what you’re probably thinking — planning a getaway of any length can be stressful, especially when you’re traveling with little ones or a large, multi-generational group. There’s so much to consider, from logistics to activities to dining arrangements — not to mention budget. I can confidently say this is not the case when you choose to cruise — especially on a ship like Independence of the Seas.
Part of Royal Caribbean’s beloved Freedom Class, this top-rated cruise ship offers a seemingly endless array of complimentary cruise attractions for kids and adults — including exhilarating waterslides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, a mini golf course and a 40-foot rock climbing wall. The ship is also home to the iconic FlowRider®️* surf simulator, a virtual reality-meets-bungee trampoline experience called the Sky Pad®️, a Royal Escape RoomSM and an ice-skating rink, just to name a few of the thrills onboard.
It’s easy to see from day one of your getaway that this cruise ship was designed with families in mind. There are wow-worthy shows on offer every night, including ice-skating spectaculars, original theatrical productions and even a hit Broadway performance. And the cruise dining options onboard — both specialty and complimentary — will please even the pickiest eaters. Here are just some of the ways Independence of the Seas offers some of the best family-friendly cruises.
If you still have some energy left to burn after each fun-filled day onboard Independence of the Seas, you’ll find no shortage of family-friendly cruise entertainment to fill every moment with wonder after the sun goes down. This ship puts on a heck of a show, whether it’s dazzling, stunt-filled showcases on ice or world-class musicals and theatrical performances. One of my all-time favorite shows onboard is Once Upon a Time, an original production that takes the audience on a beautiful, song- and dance-filled journey through classic fairy tales and bedtime stories. Invitation to Dance is another great option, and guests can even choose to participate in this exciting celebration of ballroom and Latin dance. Of course, one of the top-rated shows onboard Independence of the Seas is Grease, the award-winning hit Broadway musical starring Danny, Sandy and the rest of the Rydell High crew. Did I mention every show onboard the cruise ship is free for guests of all ages? All you have to do is reserve your seats at the Box Office or via the Cruise Planner app.
No matter how many family members you’re traveling with or what their ages are, Independence of the Seas delivers some of the best family cruises in the industry. Each sailing offers nonstop thrills, ways to chill and opportunities to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. That’s in addition to a wide range of cruise dining options, family-friendly entertainment and amenities to help simplify your vacation from start to finish — whether you’re cruising with a baby or multiple families.
There are plenty more shows, restaurants and cruise activities for teens, kids and adults to discover onboard — you can check out a full list, as well as some of the ship’s top itineraries and current deals for family getaways.