But as the coach pulled up to the Port of Barcelona the ship’s twisting bright yellow slides jumped out instantly and I knew this was a ship I was going to have fun on.
One of the key factors, as guests around me were excited to point out, is that this is the largest passenger ship at sea – something which Royal Caribbean International has proudly claimed of each of its Oasis class ship. And at 236,857 gross tonnage – nearly 4% larger than sister ship Symphony of the Seas - latest addition Wonder of the Seas is no exception.
With 2,867 staterooms and a capacity of almost 7000 guests plus 2,300 crew total, I can only marvel at how this incredible ship was built.
The 24 guest elevators glide soundlessly up and down ferrying passengers across the 16 guest decks, with the ship’s colourful and bold interior designs interwoven throughout.
As someone who is new to cruise what strikes me about cruise lines is how they choose to differentiate themselves. Royal Caribbean’s stamp is very clear - it’s about creating an entertaining and fun atmosphere for everyone, with a real focus on family.
Wonder PlayScape is the perfect example of this. It’s a sports area featuring the tallest slide at sea – The Ultimate Abyss – which spirals down over several decks, offering a slightly terrifying but incredibly exhilarating ride.
Meanwhile above The Ultimate Abyss hangs a zip Line which flies guests across a canyon-like drop between the railings on deck 16.
Other striking features include the classic hotspot Solarium which on Wonder of the Seas spans two decks in height, with bright rainbow-coloured tiered flooring and water slides of varying sizes cascading from every corner.
The ship’s nightlife is equally as rich, with comedy shows, live music performances, silent discos and social events such as a “solo travellers get together”.
And in between the entertainment, there are the countless eateries to keep guests well-nourished. From new restaurant The Mason Jar, which serves southern comfort cuisine in a quaint setting with lots of wood panelling and lattices on walls covered with ivy, to the new pool-deck Vue Bar, with its panoramic sea views.
As Royal’s vice-president EMEA Ben Bouldin summed up: "You can tailor this ship to your circumstances and what you’re looking for – it’s a ship that really is for everyone.” I couldn’t agree more.
