Freedom of the Seas, launched in 2006, is the namesake of the Freedom class and was the world’s largest cruise ship upon debut (until Oasis-class came in 2009). She is 154,407 GT and about 1,112 feet long, with capacity around 3,934 guests double occupancy (approximately 4,515 maximum). Freedom built upon the Voyager-class design with added length and amenities. Notably, Freedom of the Seas introduced the FlowRider surf simulator – the first surf simulator at sea – and a splash park for kids. The ship features a Royal Promenade shopping street, an ice-skating rink, rock climbing wall, and a large waterpark area (originally the H2O Zone for families). Over the years, Freedom has evolved: in 2020 she underwent a major amplification that added water slides (the duo Perfect Storm slides), a revamped pool deck with the Lime & Coconut bar, a new Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen restaurant, and more. The ship offers varied entertainment like the Broadway show Grease (post-refurb) and ice shows in Studio B. Freedom of the Seas sails popular routes in the Caribbean, delivering a classic yet newly refreshed mega-ship experience.
Unique features:
Surfing and water fun: Freedom was the first ship to debut the FlowRider surf simulator – letting guests try stand-up surfing or boogie-boarding on a continuous wave. This innovative attraction has since become a Royal Caribbean staple. Freedom also originally had the H2O Zone water park, one of the largest kids’ aqua parks at sea in 2006, signifying its focus on splashy fun.
Amplified additions: In 2020, Freedom emerged with the cruise line’s first Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, a reimagined take on the Italian restaurant concept. The ship also gained a resort-style pool deck with colorful casitas and the Lime & Coconut bar, significantly modernizing her outdoor spaces. These changes blend with Freedom’s classic offerings (like the FlowRider and Promenade) to keep the ship contemporary.
Last major drydock/update: January 2020 – Underwent a $116 million Royal Amplification refit in early 2020. This upgrade added Perfect Storm racing water slides, a refreshed pool deck (with Splashaway Bay kids aqua park and Lime & Coconut bar), new dining venues (Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, El Loco Fresh taqueria), updated children’s spaces and a laser tag arena. Entertainment was enhanced (e.g. the addition of Grease in the theater). This was Freedom’s most extensive refurbishment since launch, bringing many new attractions on board.
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Chef's Table Menu
Restaurant: Chef's Table
Date Uploaded: April 11, 2025
Cost:$
An exclusive, intimate dining experience featuring a multi-course gourmet meal paired with fine wines, guided by the ship's Chef de Cuisine.