20-Second Summary
The Ovation of the Seas by Royal Caribbean International is the third and one of the most exciting Quantum Class cruise ships sailing today.
- The almost ten-year-old vessel has a family-friendly design, modern technology, and incredible onboard experiences.
- If you’re planning to cruise to Alaska in 2026 or a Caribbean escape, this guide covers every detail you need to consider before booking Ovation of the Seas.
In this blog, you will get every detail from cabins, dining, and entertainment to cruise tips to help you plan a perfect vacation.
What is Ovation of the Seas? Ship Overview
The Ovation of the Seas belongs to the Quantum class cruises of the Royal Caribbean, which was signed as the third Quantum class ship of the company in contract with the Meyer Werft.
- The name of the cruise was announced to be the “Ovation of the Seas,” and the ship was delivered to the Royal Caribbean on April 8, 2016.
- After being launched, the ship began its maiden 52-night voyage from Southampton, UK to Tianjin, China..
- Ovation of the Seas was part of Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class project developed under Meyer Werft in Germany.
- Ovation of the Seas is almost 10 years old, but one cannot guess its age based on the design and the interiors, including the modern features.
- There are Royal Caribbean’s signature onboard thrills, such as the FlowRider, North Star observation pod, and iFly skydiving simulator.
The vessel is set to be dry-docked in the year 2026 before it gets amplified ahead of the Alaska 2026 season. - While the cruise is set to sail to Alaska in May of 2026, it is said to receive new staterooms with other upgrades, including a new nightclub and dining venues.
Ovation of the Seas Cabins & Deck Plans
The Ovation of the Seas offers so many varieties of cabins, including the deck plans available online from Royal Caribbean.
Balcony Stateroom Options
The Ovation of the Seas has a total of 2,091 cabins, distributed as follows:
- 1,436 Balcony Cabins
- 148 Ocean View Cabins
- 378 Interior Cabins
- 28 Studio Cabins
- Plus 101 Suites
Out of all the cabins, 75% of cabins have balconies, which equals 1,572 cabins total, which makes Ovation of the Seas one of the most balcony-rich ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.
The main balcony stateroom options on the Ovation of the Seas include:
- Standard Balcony Stateroom is a popular option for guests seeking outdoor space.
- Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony available in double and quad configurations for families.
- Junior Suite with Large Balcony, having enhanced space and premium amenities
- Grand Suite with Large Balcony (1-bedroom), which has luxurious accommodations with separate living areas
- Studio Ocean Balcony is another unique option that combines a studio room with balcony access.
Ocean View Room Features
The Ovation of the Seas, ocean view rooms have the following features:
- A large ocean view window that provides natural light and scenery.
- Two twin beds that can be turned into a Royal King bed.
- A sofa that can be turned into a double sofa bed.
- Private bathroom with a shower.
- A vanity that not only doubles as a writing desk but also has a backlit mirror and a hairdryer.
- Flat-Screen TV.
- A Mini Fridge and a kettle are also provided.
- Desk with electrical and USB outlets.
- Ample closet and storage space
Interior Cabin with Virtual Balcony
The 375-378 interior cabins on Ovation of the Seas have technologically innovative Virtual Balconies.
- These virtual screens provide the views of the ocean using the cameras mounted on the exterior of the ship.
- Cruisers can experience the balcony via the 80-inch LED screens that have natural light simulation that changes with the location of the ship, as well as the time of day.
Those who want to experience ocean views but are on a budget can opt for these cabins with virtual balconies.
Studio Cabins for Solo Travellers
There are 28 studios on Ovation of the Seas that have been designed for solo cruisers. These cabins offer
- Single person occupancy
- Compact room designs that provide maximized space
- Amenities include a private bathroom, a TV, and storage
- Access to the exclusive Studio Lounge, where solo travelers can meet and socialize
- Virtual Balcony configurations
Best and Worst Decks: What to Know Before Booking
When cruising, you must consider selecting your cabins based on the location of the decks and your personal preferences to get the maximum out of your Ovation cruise experience.
- If you want a cabin place where there is the least motion, convenient access to dining and entertainment venues, and pools, then you must choose cabins in the Best Decks 8, 9, and 10.
- These are not only close to outdoor activity areas, but are also ideal for families and first-time cruisers.
- You also get to save time on the elevator wait to get access to popular areas of the vessel.
- We recommend being careful while choosing cabins on decks 4 and 6, because the former is located near areas of crews and can bring too much noise and foot traffic, while the latter is also noisier as it is right below the pool deck with upcoming noises from late-night entertainment and activities.
If you only have to pick from decks 4 and 6, then we recommend choosing the cabins that are mid-ship, as these avoid the areas that are below high-traffic zones.
Family Connecting Options
If you are travelling as a big family, then Ovation of the Seas offers great options.
- You get to have connecting staterooms with the great interiors, ocean view, and balcony cabins available with connecting configurations.
- Junior suits availability provides an extra space for families to not have to book two separate cabins.
- For those travelling with multi-generations, grand suites offer separate bedrooms that make it a perfect travel with extended family members.
When booking connecting rooms, request them early and confirm the connection with Royal Caribbean to ensure availability.
Dining Options on Ovation of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas offers a variety of dining options from main dining rooms and casual spots like Sorrento’s pizza to specialty restaurants.
There are also cafes and bars available for snacks, coffee, and drinks throughout the ship.
Main Dining Rooms
The Dynamic Dining system was discontinued. Ovation now operates a single Main Dining Room with themed sections that have a unique ambiance for each, and they provide a rotating menu that also includes regional dishes inspired by the destinations covered by the cruise.
The Main Dining Room now operates with themed sections, including Grande, Chic, Silk, and American Icon.
Speciality Restaurants of Ovation of the Seas
The ship also offers specialty restaurants to give a premium experience to cruisers. The premium food experience offering specialty restaurants includes:
- Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar is famous for its hand-tossed pizzas, fresh pasta, and wines from Italy.
- Izumi Teppanyaki & Sushi offers interactive Japanese cooking with fresh seafood that gives the best premium feel to the palate for the seafood.
- Chops Grille, which is the signature steakhouse of Royal Caribbean.
- Jamie’s Italian dining experience offers recipes by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Casual Dining & Buffets
Some know casual dining and buffet options on the cruise include:
- Windjammer Marketplace, the main buffet of the ship, offers rotating menus and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- You also get the casual grab-and-go spots that include Café Two70 and Sorrento’s Pizza for quick meals.
Coastal Kitchen: Exclusive Dining for Suite Guests
Coastal Kitchen is an exclusive dining room for suite guests and Pinnacle members.
How to Save Money on Specialty Dining
If you want to save money on specialty dining, you can prebook, as Royal Caribbean offers discounts before booking. However, some dining options can only be booked once on board.
- You can get up to 40% off at multiple specialty restaurants by purchasing a specialty dining package.
- Children aged between 6 and 12 eat for a reduced price between $10 and $50 at specialty restaurants.
- Children aged 5 and under eat for free.
Signature Activities & Entertainment
Ovation of the Seas offers various activities that not only let you experience adventure but also make you feel comfortable doing them. We have highlighted its signature activities that the cruise is famous for.
North Star Observation Capsule
North Star Observation Capsule is a glass pod rising 300 feet above sea level, giving 360° views of glaciers or tropical seas.
RipCord by iFLY Skydiving
With RipCord by iFLY Skydiving Simulator, cruisers can experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe wind tunnel at sea.
FlowRider Surf Simulator
FlowRider Surf Simulator lets you test your surfing skills while overlooking the ocean.
SeaPlex
SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity zone at sea, features bumper cars, roller skating, basketball, and even circus school.
Two70 Lounge Entertainment
Two70 Lounge is not just a dining experience; it transforms from a relaxing daytime lounge into a multimedia theatre with robotic screens and live performances.
Rock Climbing, Fitness Centre
Rock Climbing Wall & Fitness Center is perfect for active cruisers and family fun.
Family Features & Kids’ Activities
Ovation of the Seas is one of the best family cruise ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.
- Adventure Ocean Youth Program is organized by age group, from toddlers to teens, with supervised games, science workshops, and arts & crafts.
- SeaPlex Family Zone is designed to be interactive and fun for all ages, with bumper cars and sports courts.
- Teen Club is a cool hangout space with video games, movie nights, and music.
- Splashaway Bay provides cruisers with kids a colorful water park that has slides and splash zones for younger kids.
- Other kids-friendly areas on the cruise include: Nursery, Arcade, Fuel Teen Disco, and the living room.
Family amenities include connecting cabins, high chairs, cribs, and child-friendly menus.
Adults-Only Spaces: Solarium
Solarium is an adult-friendly zone on the cruise, which is a glass-enclosed space that has pools, whirlpools, loungers, and a full-service bar.
- The adult cruisers can dine at the Solarium Bistro as well, which serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- The Solarium is open to cruisers aged 18 and over, and is a quiet retreat area where adults can escape from the family areas and enjoy themselves in the calm, while kids are busy in their own activity areas under supervision.
Ovation of the Seas Alaska Cruise: 7-Night Alaska & Hubbard Glacier
In 2026, Ovation of the Seas will once again sail through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska.
- The cruisers can experience glaciers, coastal towns, and the wilderness.
- Whether sailing northbound from Vancouver or southbound from Seward, every day will offer something new.
The following table outlines the official 2026 Alaska cruise itineraries for Ovation of the Seas, including port schedules, trip duration, and key highlights for both northbound and southbound routes.
| Itinerary Type | Duration | Ports of Call / Major Highlights |
| Northbound: Vancouver to Seward | 7 nights | Day 1: Depart Vancouver, British ColumbiaDay 2 to 3: Cruising at seaDay 4: Ketchikan (Ward Cove), AlaskaDay 5: Icy Strait Point or Sitka, AlaskaDay 6: Sitka or Skagway, AlaskaDay 7: Cruise by Hubbard Glacier, AlaskaDay 8: Arrive Seward (Anchorage), Alaska |
| Southbound: Seward to Vancouver | 7 nights | Day 1: Depart Seward (Anchorage), AlaskaDay 2: Cruise by Hubbard Glacier, Alaska Day3: Juneau, AlaskaDay 4: Skagway, AlaskaDay 5: Icy Strait Point, AlaskaDay 6: Cruising at sea Day 7: Arrive Vancouver, British Columbia |
Important Considerations:
- Cruise Season will be from May through September 2026, with a duration of 7 nights and calendar days including the embarkation day.
- Watch for Wave Season promotions (January to March 2026) for discounts and free upgrades.
Caribbean & Other Itineraries
When Ovation isn’t sailing for Alaska, it spends winters cruising the Caribbean and Baja California.
- Expect sunny ports like Cozumel, Nassau, and Cabo San Lucas, perfect for snorkelling, beach days, and cultural tours.
- Caribbean itineraries range from 5 to 7 nights, offering a relaxing escape with vibrant nightlife and outdoor dining under the stars.
Ovation of the Seas Cruise Deals & Booking Tips
Below are some useful tips regarding the deals and bookings that will help you with a smooth experience on Ovation of Seas.
- Always pre-book the North Star and iFLY through the Royal Caribbean app.
- If you want to feel less motion, always book the mid-ship cabins.
- While travelling to Alaska, consider taking warm clothing.
- In order to avoid flight delays and missing the cruise, we always advise arriving one day early in Seattle or Sydney before the embarkation day.
- Checking in online can save you from standing in queues.
- Use the RoyalUp upgrade program to bid on stateroom upgrades after booking.
- Check Royal Caribbean’s cruise deals regularly for BOGO 60% and Kids Sail Free promotions.
- Book early for Alaska sailings to secure balcony staterooms with glacier views.
Ship Comparison: Ovation vs Other Quantum Class Ships
Since we are talking about Ovation of the Seas, and this is the third Quantum Class ship from Royal Caribbean, which is also getting amplified in 2026.
| Ship | Year Entered Service | Gross Tonnage (GT) | Length (ft) | Passenger Capacity (Double Occupancy) | Max Capacity | Key Distinguishing Features |
| Ovation of the Seas | 2016 | 168,666 | 1,141 | 4,180 | 4,905 | Two70 venue, North Star observation capsule, SeaPlex arena, scheduled 2026 refurbishment with upgraded suites, pool deck, and spa areas |
| Quantum of the Seas | 2014 | 168,666 | 1,141 | 4,180 | 4,905 | First Quantum-class ship, North Star, RipCord by iFLY, FlowRider surf simulator |
| Anthem of the Seas | 2015 | 168,666 | 1,139 | 4,180 | 4,905 | Designed for UK and European markets, enhanced entertainment lineup, and an indoor pool complex |
| Spectrum of the Seas (Quantum Ultra Class) | 2019 | 169,379 | 1,139 | 4,246 | 5,600 | Quantum Ultra upgrades, exclusive suite-only enclave, Asian market focus |
| Odyssey of the Seas (Quantum Ultra Class) | 2021 | 167,704 | 1,139 | 4,198 | 4,800 | Newest layout, updated technology, redesigned pool deck, enhanced dining and entertainment |
Ovation stands out for its balance of entertainment, scenic itineraries, and crowd-free spaces, especially for Alaska voyages.
In its 2026 Dry Dock period and before sailing to Alaska, as part of the planned 2026 refurbishment, Ovation of the Seas is expected to undergo upgrades, including 40 new staterooms, a new nightclub, an expanded casino, and refreshed dining venues, pending Royal Caribbean’s confirmation.
Ovation of the Seas Reviews Summary
This most versatile quantum series vessel from Royal Caribbean has received the rating of 4.5 out of a solid 5 on major online rating platforms featuring the Ovation of the Seas reviews.
- The cruisers have loved the cruise for its friendly staff, cleanliness, wide dining options, North Star views, and family-friendly activity areas.
- The only limitations faced by the cruisers were the limited availability of late-minute shows, which made booking essential beforehand.
Is Ovation of the Seas Worth It? Final Remarks
If you’re planning an Alaska adventure or a Caribbean getaway, Ovation of the Seas still remains one of Royal Caribbean’s most complete travel experiences.
The ship offers unique activities, best dining experiences, family-oriented activities and cabins, along with special cabins for solo travellers with award-winning kids programs and nursery.
If you are looking to travel to Alaska in 2026, Cruise Tidal will definitely recommend Ovation of the Seas, as it is going to get amplified before the trip, making it more enriched in its interior and dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ovation of the Seas good for families?
Yes, the vessel offers top-rated kids’ clubs, nursery, Splash pools, and connecting family rooms.
Does the ship have adults-only areas?
Yes, the Solarium is an adult-only area which is exclusive to guests 18 and older.
What’s the best time to cruise Alaska on Ovation of the Seas?
June to August will be ideal based on the weather conditions and wildlife sightings.
Does Ovation of the Seas have Wi-Fi?
Yes, the VOOM high-speed internet is available fleetwide.
What are the signature activities on Ovation of the Seas?
The signature activities include: the North Star observation capsule, the Ripcord by iFLY skydiving simulator, the FlowRider surf simulator, and the SeaPlex Activity centre.
