Symphony of the Seas is an awe-inspiring ship at sea, and it lives up to its reputation as a floating city packed with experiences for every type of traveler. One of the absolute highlights of my trip was dining at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, a restaurant that fully commits to its Alice-in-Wonderland theme. The menu reads like a riddle, the presentations are theatrical and surprising (think dishes that arrive in clouds of “smoke” or float in mid-air), and the flavors are just as imaginative as the visuals. It’s an experience I'd recommend to any client who loves food as entertainment, Alice in Wonderland or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants a meal they’ll talk about for years.

For thrill-seekers, Symphony delivers in a big way. The Ultimate Abyss is a 10-story slide that twists down from the upper decks, and it’s every bit as exhilarating as it looks—equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. Pair that with the zip line soaring nine decks above the Boardwalk, and you’ve got two activities that give guests serious bragging rights.

The entertainment on board is genuinely Broadway-caliber. The AquaTheater show is a stunning combination of diving, acrobatics, and choreography set against the backdrop of the open ocean, while the ice skating show in Studio B is polished, energetic, and surprisingly emotional given the size of the rink. Both shows are must-sees and a great way to spend an evening.

One feature that surprised me the most was our cabin—an interior room with a balcony that actually looks out onto the Boardwalk, so we could watch the action below and a fabulous view of the aqua show right from our room. It gave us the feel of an oceanview without the price tag, and I think it’s a perfect option for clients looking to save money without sacrificing that “connected to the ship” feeling. Symphony of the Seas truly has something for everyone—families, couples, foodies, thrill-seekers, and anyone who just wants to feel like a kid again.

A few things worth knowing before you set sail on Symphony of the Seas: book specialty restaurants and shows as early as possible, since popular time slots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine often comes with an additional dining fee, but it’s well worth it for a special night out.

Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the ship’s many decks and neighborhoods, and don’t be afraid to wander—some of the best discoveries happen when you stumble onto a hidden lounge, bar, or activity you didn’t know existed.

Lastly, give yourself permission to slow down; with so much to see and do, it’s easy to overschedule, but some of the best memories come from simply soaking in the ship’s atmosphere.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.