Fans of thrilling onboard attractions should definitely challenge a friend to a speed test on The Perfect Storm waterslides — dueling high-speed racers that will send you twisting and turning down multiple levels. Each one features translucent stretches that offer up captivating sea views, so you can soak up the sights while experiencing an unparalleled surge of adrenaline. And guess what? Rides on The Perfect Storm are totally included in your cruise fare and open to all guests.
Once you’ve conquered The Perfect Storm waterslides, keep the thrills going strong onboard Symphony of the Seas with an exhilarating zip line ride ten stories above the Boardwalk. Like many other onboard attractions, riding the zip line is complimentary to all cruise guests, and it’s kid-friendly, too — your little ones just have to meet the 52-inch height requirement.
You don’t need to be a tide-taming pro to catch prime waves during your cruise with. All you need to do is grab a board and focus on your balance. The FlowRider* surf simulator is an Oasis Class favorite, and one of the top things to do onboard Symphony of the Seas. This 40-foot-long surf simulator funnels 30,000 gallons of rushing water over an incline to create optimal surf conditions. You can ride the swell upright or on your belly, boogie-style. Or grab a seat on the sidelines and cheer on your buddies as they try not to wipe out.
Symphony of the Seas certainly wins awards for its family-friendly activities, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t options onboard for guests craving a little bit of grown-up relaxation. The Solarium is the perfect spot to unwind while the kids are having a blast onboard, and admission is free. You’ll find plenty of spaces to kick back and soak up the sun at this adults-only retreat, plus refreshing lagoon-like pools and heated whirlpools, and a bar fully stocked with all your favorite wines, beers, and spirits.
There are plenty of bars onboard Symphony of the Seas if you’re looking to grab a drink, but the Bionic Bar is hands-down the coolest one. At this Instagram-worthy drinking spot, two robotic bartenders shake, stir and muddle drinks with fluid moves and flawless efficiency. You can choose a classic or signature drink from the menu or enter your own recipe into one of the iPads at the bar. Then, sit back and be amazed as the robots prepare your order. Even if you’re not looking to get your sip on, you should still stop by just to watch these mecha mixologists work.
Like The Perfect Storm waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss will appeal to thrill seekers and adrenaline chasers. This ten story dry slide holds the record for tallest slide at sea, and it should definitely be on your list of must-try experiences onboard Symphony of the Seas. If you’re brave enough to take the plunge, you’ll enjoy a twisting, turning ride down 150-feet from the Sports Deck to the Boardwalk.
Royal Caribbean was the first cruise line to introduce glow-in-the-dark laser tag, and it’s become one of the top things to do onboard some of its ships. If you’re sailing on Symphony of the Seas, you’ll get to suit up against either aliens or robots in an epic battle for Planet Z, the last viable planet for light years around. This action-packed experience is kid-friendly and 100% included in your cruise fare — all you have to do is make a reservation via your Cruise Planner app or at the box office onboard.
In addition to onboard attractions like the Ultimate Abyss and laser tag, Symphony of the Seas also delivers some of the best entertainment in the cruising industry. Every show onboard is a hit, but you definitely can’t miss the dazzling performances at the AquaTheater. This open-air venue sets the stage for shows that blend dance, synchronized swimming, impressive aerial feats and captivating high-diving stunts by world-class performers. Attendance is free, but reservations are recommended.
With its beautiful gardens and towering trees, Central Park is one of the most tranquil and scenic spots onboard Symphony of the Seas. At night, twinkling string lights and the occasional live music performance transform this idyllic neighborhood into the perfect place to dial up date night. Savor a meal at 150 Central Park or Chops Grille — two of the top-rated specialty restaurants onboard this cruise ship — then enjoy a glass of wine at the Trellis Bar while you soak up the ambience under a night sky full of stars.
If you’re looking for the sweetest spot onboard Symphony of the Seas, you should definitely make a beeline for Sugar Beach. A favorite stop among adults and little ones alike, this colorful shop is fully stocked with more than 200 different kinds of candies, plus tantalizing treats like rich chocolate fudge, fluffy cupcakes and creamy ice cream you can craft into your very own sundae. Sugar Beach also offers hands-on activities for kids and their parents, like cupcake decorating classes where you get to practice your icing skills and then enjoy your very own creation.
As far as onboard attractions, entertainment, and family-friendly activities go, Symphony of the Seas offers something for every vacationer. We’ve covered ten of the top things to do on this record-breaking Oasis Class cruise ship, but once you step aboard you’ll find we’ve only scratched the surface of ways you can fill every sea day. Whatever kind of vacation vibe you’re going for, you’ll find plenty of surprises and unforgettable experiences waiting on every deck — like world-class restaurants, Broadway shows and ice skating spectaculars, and clubs where you can dance your way into the next day.