Secrets of Odyssey of The Sea

Taking a 15-night TransAtlantic cruise onboard Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Sea has given me a lot of time to uncover her secrets, some of them well after day 7, when I would normally be disembarking!

If you’re sailing on Odyssey anytime soon, here are a few things you might want to know to maximize your time on board.

1. Two70 is More Than Just Another Venue

Odyssey of the Sea belongs to the Quantum class of Royal Caribbean ships. Others include Quantum, Anthem, Ovation, and Spectrum. This is far and away my favorite class of ship, largely because of Two70.

Now, you might look at it as just another venue. That would be incorrect. This venue is truly spectacular. I typically am skeptical of anything that claims to use “advanced technology,” but seriously. THIS is advanced technology being put to good use.

Make sure to see anything and everything you can here, especially The Two70 Experience, which I think is easy to overlook. I thought that was just going to be a lecture, but we wandered in late and discovered that it ended with a spectacular digital show. I don’t want to give away the surprise. Just see it. You will not be disappointed. The same goes for The Book, theme parties, the virtual orchestra, virtual fireworks, and anything else that pops up on your schedule.

2. The Solarium Bistro is the Best Breakfast Spot

Don’t want to fight the Windjammer lines or wait forever in the MDR? The Solarium Bistro is your best bet. This quiet little oasis on deck 14 features a lighter buffet menu for breakfast and lunch. I discovered on day 8 that it is also the perfect place to bring your laptop and get some work done (as long as you aren’t taking calls). Plus as it is in front of the ship, you can watch the ship pull into port if you are there early enough. As I am typing, we are pulling into Lisbon, and I have a spectacular view.

3. Forgot Toothpaste? Hit the Liquor Store

Ok so this is true for all Royal ships (at least all the ones I have been on). If you forgot any necessity, from toothpaste to condoms, the liquor store has you covered. Head all the way to the back right corner. Yes, you’ll feel weird at first, and then you’ll feel like a seasoned cruiser when you discover I am right.

4. Head to the front of the Solarium for the Best Viewing Spot

There are wings on either side of the Solarium that make for spectacular viewing points as you are entering or leaving a port. Go to the very front, past the hot tubs, on either side. Get here early as the secret gets out the longer you are on board and it can become crowded.

5. You Can Get Vitality Cafe Drinks at the Windjammer (During Breakfast)

I love the fresh juices that you can get on Oasis class ships at the Vitality Cafe. The only place to get these smoothies and fresh juices is at the Windjammer during breakfast. Hours vary, so check your app for the most up-to-date times. I have found generally they have breakfast sometime from 7-11 am (which is a surprising challenge to get to some mornings).

Head to the specialty coffee area, but don’t wait in that line. Look to the left. You’ll see a menu on the counter and some fresh fruits in the display case. That’s where you order.

My personal favorite is the carrot lemonade. It is a lot better than it sounds, I promise. These drinks are included in the Refreshment and Deluxe drink packages.

6. There’s A Hidden Free Lunch Spot

This one was more surprising on a sailing when we didn’t spend much time at the pool. If you are at the pool a lot, you may easily discover El Loco Fresh, which features nachos, burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and all the fixings during lunchtime. The best part is that it’s all included in your cruise fare. There are also water dispensers here.

7. The Odyssey of the Seas Can Hold Almost 6,000 passengers

Our TransAtlantic voyage included some interesting enrichment talks, during which we learned that the Odyssey of the Seas can hold a maximum of 5,622 passengers and 1,551 crew members. On our sailing, they said we were around 3,500 passengers, which might explain why the Windjammer never really felt crowded.

8. The SeaPlex Has Entertainment Too

There’s a lot going on in the SeaPlex, including volleyball, pickleball, dodgeball, bumper cars, and laser tag. It has a great spectating space, so you can enjoy watching your fellow passengers compete from a safe distance. And with Playmakers right there, you can even enjoy a drink while you cheer them on!

The SeaPlex is also on Deck 14. You need to wear closed toe athletic shoes to participate in any of the activities on the floor. They also have arcade games and ping pong.

9. The Library is Hiding Behind the Balcony of Two70

Yes, there is a library onboard Odyssey of the Seas! It’s tucked away behind the balcony of Two70. The book selection will vary, but I recommend bringing a book (or two) from home. They also have puzzles here. Because there aren’t doors, it is not a great place for focused work, but it can be a nice space to play cards or just enjoy the view.

What other secrets have you found onboard Odyssey of the Seas? Let me know here or on Instagram @the.seasuite. Happy sailing!