Royal Caribbean International’s Asian-based cruise ship Legend of the Seas looked pretty much the same from its facade since my last cruise with her in December 2011. But one should not be too quick to judge a book by its covers, the Vision-class Legend of the Seas is the most recent ship in the fleet to receive the Royal Caribbean International’s renowned Oasis-class amenities, extensive upgrades and a bow-to-stern revitalization.
I was filled with mixed feelings when I boarded the ship. While I was excited to see the ship’s new array of features and amenities from its US$50 million rejuvenation, I was also painfully aware that I was on one of its final cruises in Asia before departing for its future endeavours in Europe and the Caribbean.
Knowing that the ship is scheduled for sail at 5.00pm, we timed our arrival at 1.00pm when our Balcony Cabin was likely to be ready. A number of Ocean View Staterooms have been converted into balconies like mine. New stateroom categories have also been added which are the Family Junior Suite and Superior Ocean View Staterooms with floor to ceiling windows.
All staterooms have been renovated with a contemporary décor and furnishings and flat-panel TVs. I chuckled as I vaguely remember the small, retro boxy TV during my previous trip.
Before leaving the cabin for your buffet lunch, remember to spend time reading through the Cruise Compass – this is a daily digest that lists the scheduled activities for each day on the cruise. There are lots of interesting and engaging activities on board that you would not want to miss!
Indulge in the Welcome Abroad Buffet at Windjammer Cafe on Deck 9 or you can also head to the newly opened (and quieter) Park Café which serves paninis, soups, salads made to order, in the Solarium indoor pool.
Exploring the ship was an attractive option after we had our fill. Digital Touchscreen Wayfinders installed in high traffic public areas makes navigation around the ship really easy. It also shows the day’s programme and information on venues, services and menus on board in six different languages including English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean. For die-hard social media whores, ship-wide Wi-Fi is available but at a cost.
There were so much activities going on even before the ship set sail! People were chilling out at the pool, learning rock-climbing 101 at the wall, pitting their skills at the Nine-Hole Miniature Golf Course. Errmm… well, no one is jogging YET!
Once all passengers are on board by 4.30pm, the Captain will call for a Compulsory Muster Drill. The purpose of a muster drill is to prepare passengers for safe evacuation in the event of an emergency while on board the ship and to familiarise crew and passengers with escape routes. Not most fun thing to do but hey it’s for our safety!
We set off timely at 5.00pm! Goodbye Voyager!
To celebrate our departure, the Cruise Director’s Staff got the crowd dancing to the music and performance by ‘Dynamic Duo’ at the Sailaway Party by Poolside!
After working out a sweat, we ventured into Casino Royale for a session of complimentary gaming lessons.
It’s fun to learn the rules of the game and watch the big time gamblers play.
A minimal of US$25 per game is a little too much risk for me to stomach.
Before we know it, its dinner time! Other than the main seated dinners, Legend of the Seas is pleased to “wow” their guest with acclaimed industry enhancements, such as Royal Caribbean’s popular complimentary and specialty dining options which give you the choice to expand your palates, namely Chops Grille, the popular signature steakhouse;
Izumi Asian Cuisine with its sushi, sashimi and hotrock (ishiyaki) plates;
the exclusive Chef’s Table for a gourmet five-course menu with wine pairing for 12 guests only.
But Romeo & Juliet Restaurant was good enough for us and we have already made a reservation for 4 at 6.30pm.
That’s our cheeky Assistant Waiter seducing my cousin with a bottle of sweet wine.
At only US$27 for the entire bottle, we can’t help but succumb to temptations. Here’s to a great weekend getaway!
The fun part of dining at Romeo & Juliet is the wide selection of starters, main course and desserts! You can literally have as many starters, main course or desserts you like (if you have the space for them all).
After dinner, head to That’s Entertainment Theatre for our Welcome Aboard Show. They were just ending the Royal Bingo when we got there. Apparently someone just won a free Suite Upgrade!
Royal Caribbean Singers and Dances brought us through a lovely journey of Ballroom, Latin and Swing at Invitation to Dance.
If you are still pretty fresh after the performance, on board entertainment options now include an outdoor movie screen which makes it perfect for alfresco movie viewing.
After an entire day of exploring, dining and performances, we decided to call it a day and recharge ourselves for our shore excursion to Malacca tomorrow. Stay tuned for our posts on Malacca Land Excursions and Day 2 of our cruise!
You may also like to check out my posts on other exciting travel destinations here
