What is "a splash for your bash" anyway?
"Splash for Your Bash" is an experience package available on virgin voyages cruise line. This booking package lets you celebrate in an extra special way!
Filed Under: Virgin Voyages Travel Agent
what is included in splash for your bash?
If you add on this package to your cruise you will enjoy concierge assistance with group dining reservations (groups of 8 sailors or more) before your cruise.
Here are your benefits during the cruise:
how much does it cost to add a splash for your bash package to my cruise?
It cost $250 per cabin (2 sailors) to enjoy the celebratory splash for your bash experience package on a virgin voyages cruise. This package represents a $375 value!
Would you add this package to make your cruise extra special? What are you celebrating on your next cruise?!
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does Virgin Voyages Allow Payment Plans?
Yes they do! A promotional rate of 0% APR with $0 down is available for qualified applicants. Virgin Voyages partners with Uplift to allow you to pay for your cruise over time.
Looking for a way to save a little extra on your next cruise on Virgin Voyages?
Save on 2025 + 2026 cruises offer
Cruise Drink Packages:Aldi Review: Appetitos Caramelized Onion and Gouda Mini Puff Pastries
See More: Aldi Review Blog
Can you ever go wrong with puff pastry? Caramelized onions? Gouda? It seems nearly impossible for this combination to go wrong, but let's see..
Aldi Frozen Appetizer Description:
Flaky all-butter pastry topped with creamy gouda cheese filling and caramelized onions.
NUTRITION FACTS AND PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONs
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Making Puff Pastry Appetizers on a Cast Iron Skillet
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Shown here: Aldi Appetitios Caramelized Onion and Gouda Puff Pastry Bites on the cast iron skillet about to go in the convection oven!
Confession: These were so good that I never got a pic of them out of the oven. I ate one as a tester and then another as a tester. Before I knew it they were gone! Flavor and texture are excellent and the puff pastry is perfect! These would be great to pick up for your next wine and app night in - Netflix and chill! Definite BUY on this! $4.79 on Instacart |
Aldi Review: APPETITOS CRANBERRY FETA MINI PUFF PASTRIES
I don't know about you, but I love a puff pastry appetizer. The flavor combination of tangy cranberry with smooth and salty feta on a light and flaky pastry just sounds delicious, doesn't it!?
Cranberry Feta Puff Pastry Frozen Appetizers
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In this post
Aldi Frozen Appetizer Description: Flaky all-butter pastry topped with creamy feta cheese filling and cranberry sauce |
Nutrition Facts and Preparation Instructions
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How to prepare Aldi's cranberry and feta mini puff pastries:
In a conventional oven:
Some readers have recommended cutting down the bake time by using an air fryer! |
Preparation Instructions
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APPETITOS CRANBERRY & FETA MINI PUFF PASTRIES Review
Aldi tends to stock cute little appetizers like these cranberry and feta pastries around the winter holiday season, but a lot of folks wish they were available year round.
Personally, I preferred the more savory caramelized onion and gouda puff pastry appetizers over these, although they were good. The combo of both flavors provides your guests variety in easy appetizers!
Tip: To reduce cleanup, try baking on silpat!
Personally, I preferred the more savory caramelized onion and gouda puff pastry appetizers over these, although they were good. The combo of both flavors provides your guests variety in easy appetizers!
Tip: To reduce cleanup, try baking on silpat!
Aldi Review: Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef
Apparently Buona is Chicago's original Italian Beef joint, but I've never been to Chicago (yet) so I had no idea! I was drawn to Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi because it was promoted as all natural, no MSG, no preservatives, no long ingredients lists... sounded like a good option for a decent meal on a busy night!
Find Famous Italian Sliced Beef In Your Local Grocery Store
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I ordered the Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi via Instacart and I believe the 4 lb container cost about $16.99. Be mindful that this container has a lot of liquid inside ("gravy"). Still it fed 2 adults for 4 meals - not bad!
About Buona Beef
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Chicago's original italian style gravy & Sliced Beef"Chicago's original Italian beef from the nation's leading family owned restaurant brand is now available in your grocer's freezer. The Buonavolanto family cooks up the world's best all-natural Italian style gravy and sliced beef made from our original recipe. No shortcuts, no MSG, no preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors. Just slow-roasted, perfectly seasoned perfection. Three generations of Buonavolantos invite you to enjoy the same Italian style gravy and beef that millions of people have made famous at our family's restaurants since 1981." #buonabeef |
Italian Sliced Beef Recipe Ideas
Add To Cart: Italian Beef Seasoning |
Top Selling Italian Beef Au Jus Seasoning
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Buona Beef Ingredients, Nutrition Facts, cooking instructions
The ingredients are simple:
- Beef gravy - beef drippings, water, natural flavors, spices
- Seasoned Beef - Beef, water, salt
Cooking Buona's Italian style sliced beef is pretty easy since ... it's already cooked. lol ;)
Just heat and serve.
The best way to heat, of course, is on the stove top.
Thaw the beef completely in your fridge overnight, then pour the contents of the container into a large saucepan and heat over medium until the meat reaches a temperature of 180 degrees.
Use a cooking thermometer to ensure safe reheat temperature!
Just heat and serve.
The best way to heat, of course, is on the stove top.
Thaw the beef completely in your fridge overnight, then pour the contents of the container into a large saucepan and heat over medium until the meat reaches a temperature of 180 degrees.
Use a cooking thermometer to ensure safe reheat temperature!
You may be interested in...
Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef Review
I could see myself purchasing this again, in a year. It's convenient, has respectable ingredients, and was about $2 per person per meal in our house. I recommend slicing up some peppers, onions, and mushrooms for optimal enjoyment. Even better - get yourself some authentic Chicago-style Hot Giardiniera.
Alternatively get some shaved/sliced beef raw and season it up just how you like. One benefit of that is not having this huge container around in your fridge or freezer.
Alternatively get some shaved/sliced beef raw and season it up just how you like. One benefit of that is not having this huge container around in your fridge or freezer.
Day 3 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise was another relaxing sea day. We took the opportunity to meet up with family for breakfast in the main dining room.
Sea Day View From Oceanview Cabin on Symphony of the Seas
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In this post:
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Breakfast in the main dining room
These photos of breakfast in the main dining room on Symphony of the Seas show just a sample of what you can order off the menu for breakfast on your cruise.
All the classics are available: bacon, sausage, hash browns, fried eggs, scrambled eggs, eggs Benedict, pancakes, and French toast.
Because you're on a cruise... you can also order dessert like this layered carrot cake with walnut topping after breakfast if you want. :p
PArk Cafe
Park Cafe is a free dining option in the Central Park neighborhood aboard Symphony of the Seas. It's meant to be a casual deli where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or grab an afternoon snack.
There is a case where you can just grab a ready-made sandwich and a piece of fruit which is very convenient.
The Park Cafe Menu serves up soups and sandwiches, including the "legendary" Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich and the occasional Cuban Sandwich.
You'll also find sweet treats like this Matcha Cream Puff, Raspberry Pound Cake, and Mudslide Cookies.
You'll also find sweet treats like this Matcha Cream Puff, Raspberry Pound Cake, and Mudslide Cookies.
You can dine in or do what we did - take your treats and Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich outside to enjoy in Central Park.
Chops Grille Menu
Chops Grille is a Classic American Steakhouse specialty dining restaurant on Symphony of the Seas.
Check out the menu as seen in Central Park:
Check out the menu as seen in Central Park:
Chops Grille Menu
The Bionic Bar
The Bionic Bar on Symphony of the Seas is located on deck 5.
Here you can have your cocktails made by robots. Drinks are not free at the bionic bar. You pay, as you would in any bar, using your Sea Pass Card. If you have a beverage package, drinks are included up to the specified value.
Here you can have your cocktails made by robots. Drinks are not free at the bionic bar. You pay, as you would in any bar, using your Sea Pass Card. If you have a beverage package, drinks are included up to the specified value.
Bionic Bar on Symphony of the Seas
The rising tide Bar
The Rising Tide Bar is a moving bar at sea which slowly ascends and descends over 3 decks on Symphony of the Seas. In the photo below we are looking up at the bottom of the floating bar.
The departure times are listed at the entrances on Deck 8 and Deck 5. Like the Bionic Bar, this is a novel bar concept that you should try at least once just for the fun of it.
The departure times are listed at the entrances on Deck 8 and Deck 5. Like the Bionic Bar, this is a novel bar concept that you should try at least once just for the fun of it.
Rising Tide Bar on Symphony of the Seas
REgalia Watches
If you're looking for a luxury timepiece onboard Symphony, or maybe just window shopping, Regalia Watches is onboard. They also hosted a Watch and Scotch event on our cruise.
Regalia Watches
Watch & Scotch Event
The Watch and Scotch event featured Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky: Island Green, Gold Label Reserve, Black Label, and Red Label.
Johnnie Walker Scotch Tasting
At the event you can enjoy a complimentary tasting and this is one of the opportunities for those with a tighter budget to get free drinks on a cruise!
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve.
Johnnie Walker Island Green
I really enjoyed the complexity that the smokiness brought to Johnnie Walker's Island Green Blended Malt Whisky.
Free Mini Golf on Symphony of the seas Cruise Ship
The mini golf course is located on deck 15 and it is quite cute with its very vacation-y theme.
It is a lot of fun and can be a tad challenging depending on the winds at sea, but it is possible to get a hole-in-one! ;)
Few things will work up your appetite like cruise ship mini golf.. :)
A taste of italy menu - Main dining room
A Taste of Italy - Royal Caribbean Dinner Menu
Crispy Parmesan Arancini.
Arborio rice, portobello mushroom and provolone cheese rolled in panko and fried until golden, served with romesco sauce.
Golden Polenta Fries.
Crispy baked corn polenta served with a chilled creamy hazelnut-red pepper spread.
See also: Eating Arancini In Italy
Lasagne al forno.
Layers of pasta, mozzarella, béchamel and hearty beef ragout drizzled with fragrant herb oil.
Tiramisu.
Making our way from the Main Dining Room to the Aqua Theater for the evening showing of Hiro, we passed Johnny Rockets on the Boardwalk.
Italy Travel Blog.
Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets is a retro American dinner where you can grab diner classics like burgers, fries, and milkshakes not to mention a special performance if you time it just right. ;)
Johnny Rockets Menu on Symphony of the seas.
Johnny Rockets is a casual dining option on Royal Caribbean Cruises. You do have to pay a surcharge to eat at Johnny Rockets, but on Symphony of the Seas breakfast is free!
Tap a Johnny Rockets cruise ship menu below to enlarge it!
Tap a Johnny Rockets cruise ship menu below to enlarge it!
If you are "Loyal to Royal" and have sailed with Royal Caribbean before you will also have a discount on Johny Rocket's Milkshakes loaded onto your account.
Just let the waiter know when you order one that you want to use your 50% off milkshake coupon.
Just let the waiter know when you order one that you want to use your 50% off milkshake coupon.
Hiro aquatheater show
Hiro was the AquaTheater show on Symphony of the Seas and this fuzzy night time pic is all I got to prove I was there. :p
It's amazing to see the use of the dive pool and acrobatics in a choreographed show like this. Royal likes to brag on their entertainment, but I can see why after our most recent cruise. |
Hiro AquaTheater Show
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Virgin Voyages may have the best drink package at sea and here's why..
Virgin VOyages Drinks Package FAQS:
- Does Virgin have a drinks package?
- Are drinks free on Virgin Cruises?
- What are Basic Bevvies?
- Can you bring your own alcohol on Virgin Voyages?
- Can you get in trouble for bringing alcohol onboard?
- How will they know if I bring alcohol onboard?
- How much are drinks on Virgin Cruises?
- Is the Bar Tab worth it?
- Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package onboard?
- How much is Moet on Virgin?
- How much does Shake for Champagne cost?
- Does everyone in the room have to buy a drink package?
- Do you tip Bartenders if you have a drink package or Bar Tab?
- Virgin Voyages Drinks Package Review
- Current Bar Tab Deals
On The Rocks Cocktail Bar | Photo Virgin Voyages
Does virgin voyages have a drinks package?
No! Unlike the majority of mainstream cruise lines, Virgin Voyages does not have a beverage package.
Are drinks free on virgin voyages?
Virgin cruises includes 'Basic Bevvies' for all passengers as they considered these to be essential drinks.
What are 'Basic Bevvies'?
The following drinks are free on a Virgin cruise:
- filtered still and sparkling water
- fruit juices (non-pressed)
- sodas
- tea
- drip coffee
Can you bring your own alcohol on a virgin cruise?
Yes you can! A little known fact is that most cruise lines, including Virgin, allow sailors to bring two (2) 750ml bottles of wine per cabin in their carry-on bags on embarkation day.
If you would like to open your wine in the dining room there is a $25 corkage fee. You can use your Bar Tab to cover that fee.
My Tip: Open it in your room and skip the corkage fee ;)
If you would like to open your wine in the dining room there is a $25 corkage fee. You can use your Bar Tab to cover that fee.
My Tip: Open it in your room and skip the corkage fee ;)
can you get in trouble for bringing alcohol on a cruise?
Everyone wants tips for saving money on a cruise and some may think it's a good idea to bring alcohol on a cruise. Aside from the 2 bottles of wine that are permitted per the cruise line's alcohol policy, you cannot bring alcohol such as beer or liquor on a cruise. It will be confiscated.
But what if you love to visit vineyards or distilleries on a cruise and bring back a bottle? Don't worry! You can bring these bottles onboard and they will be held for you until the end of the cruise. Once you get back home you can sip and smile as you reminisce about your amazing cruise vacation!
But what if you love to visit vineyards or distilleries on a cruise and bring back a bottle? Don't worry! You can bring these bottles onboard and they will be held for you until the end of the cruise. Once you get back home you can sip and smile as you reminisce about your amazing cruise vacation!
How do they know if I am bringing alcohol onboard a cruise?
Your luggage is scanned and when you walk through the X-ray machine, you will be too - so don't try to hide any small bottles in your pockets. Just follow the rules. Take advantage of the opportunity to bring 2 free bottles of wine aboard, if you'd like and otherwise budget accordingly.
How much are drinks on Virgin Voyages?
Drinks on virgin are priced much more reasonably than other cruise lines.
- Beer costs $7-9 including tip
- Basic cocktails cost $11 including tip
- Wine by the glass starts under $11 including tip.
Drink Prices on Virgin Voyages
Many cruise lines charge more than these prices before tip. Pricing is dynamic depending on cruise region, however this should help you calculate how much of a Bar Tab you may wish to pre-pay to get the perks.
Is the virgin voyages bar tab worth it?
The Bar Tab on Virgin Cruises is a great concept. Rather than forcing everyone in your room to buy an expensive drinks package that they may not want or use, you can prepay a bar tab.
Unlike traditional cruise beverage packages, with your Bar Tab you can pay for not only your drinks, but you can buy a round for your friends, too!
Their drinks start at a more affordable price point and when you load a Bar Tab before your cruise you get free money to top off your tab making it an even better value.
Unlike traditional cruise beverage packages, with your Bar Tab you can pay for not only your drinks, but you can buy a round for your friends, too!
Their drinks start at a more affordable price point and when you load a Bar Tab before your cruise you get free money to top off your tab making it an even better value.
Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board?
The Deckhouse on Virgin Cruises
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Buying a drinks package before your cruise is a top tip to save money on alcohol and other specialty beverages.
While Virgin doesn't technically have a "drinks package", their Bar Tab is Sailor Loot (onboard credit) specifically for beverages. You can only pre-purchase it and when you do you're going to get a top off which means free drinks! For example, if you set up a $300 Bar Tab for you and your friends, you'll get a total of $350 to spend! (Thats $50 free!) Traveling with a group and want to compound the savings? A $1000 Bar Tab will get you $250 in free drinks for a total of $1250 in drinks to share! Just be sure the person who has the bar tab is going to be willing and available to do all the ordering. Your virgin voyages travel agent will ensure you get the best Bar Tab Bonus Available! |
How much is a bottle of moet on virgin voyages?
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Moet Chandon is the featured Champagne house onboard, but you can order champagne at all budgets. From a $9 glass to a $1,000 vintage bottle. how much is the shake for champagne?
Have something to celebrate?!
If you'd like the novel experience of shaking for champagne on the virgin voyages app, you can have a bottle of Moët Chandon Impérial delivered to you wherever you are on the ship for around $95. You can use your Bar Tab to pay for "Shake for Champagne". |
Shake For Champagne on Virgin
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Does everyone in a room on a cruise have to buy a drink package?
Not on Virgin! Since they do not have a typical beverage package, everyone in your cabin is not stuck paying for an alcohol package if they don't drink. Many sailors will have no extra costs associated with beverages on this line as they even include sodas with their cruise fare!
Anyone who does opt to pre-load a Bar Tab can use it to buy drinks for anyone on the ship unlike other premium drink packages.
Anyone who does opt to pre-load a Bar Tab can use it to buy drinks for anyone on the ship unlike other premium drink packages.
Do you tip bartenders on cruise with drink package?
Tipping is not necessary. Drinks packages on cruise lines generally include the tip already and in the case of a Virgin cruise - their drink prices all include gratuity regardless of if you have a Bar Tab or not. Extra tipping is at your discretion.
virgin voyages drink package review
Colorful Cruise Cocktails on Virgin Voyages
I really love the idea behind Virgin Voyage's drink package alternative. On so many cruise lines the beverage packages are so costly per day that cruisers are trying to "make it worth it" and as a result they over consume and the consequential behavior can negatively impact the cruise for other passengers.
Sure, we can all do the math on how much we paid for the package and how many drinks we need to drink to "break even", but is that a healthy way to operate? At what point are we no longer consuming for enjoyment but only to "get our moneys worth"? *shrug* Just saying...
Virgin Voyage's solution seems elegant. Offer more reasonable pricing, allow people to pre-pay to get added value yet still have the feeling of being able to order what they want onboard without getting a bill.
What do you think?
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A day at sea on a cruise ship is a welcome reprieve from the bustle of daily life and the potentially hectic nature of embarkation day.
Here's how we spent our first sea day on Symphony of the Seas. 
View from Oceanview Stateroom 3198
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Late breakfast in the main dining room
Like sleeping in? No problem! On a sea day you can enjoy a leisurely late breakfast in the main dining room if you'd like. Rather than the busy buffet, you can order off a menu and have the full traditional dining experience in main dining room.
Fresh fruit.
You can pretty much always order a fresh fruit plate at any meal, even if you don't see it on the menu. ;) The fruit varieties will vary based on what is available, but we started off colorfully here with a lovely mix of pineapple, cantaloupe, red grapes, strawberries and kiwi!
Cinnamon Swirl Danish.
Much like the bread basket served at dinner in the main dining room, at breakfast time there are offerings of a variety of danishes and breakfast pastries. Our personal favorite was this cinnamon swirl danish. It's almost a puff pastry cinnamon roll. Ask for it specifically if you don't see it! ;)
Portugal Travel tip: There is a similar pastry in Portugal that we sometimes see in the bakery section of the grocery store called Continente. If you see it, give it a try!
Symphony of the Seas ReviewS:
French toast.
Two slices of thick-cut brioche dipped in Royal Caribbean's signature batter and cooked until golden brown. Served with berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. You can also add sides like bacon, sausage, sautéed mushrooms, cheddar cheese grits, hash brown potatoes, corned beef hash, or a fruit cup to your breakfast order!
Brunch on symphony
We were able to order more breakfast-y foods (as mentioned above) and more lunch-y foods, so Royal Caribbean really offers a nice, free brunch in their main dining room. This is great if some in your party like to eat "real food" (like a steak, lol) while others want pancakes and French toast.
Iceberg wedge salad.
Chilled iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, crispy bacon and chives drizzled with blue cheese dressing.
Steak frites.
Grilled sirloin topped with creamy béarnaise sauce and served with crispy truffle fries.
Alert! This was one of the best things I ate on Symphony of the Seas!
We'll always laugh about the moment when the waiter brought a second steak to our table because someone ordered the dish thinking they were ordering "steak FRIES". Whoops! :)
coconut cake with raspberry sauce.
Despite being recommended by waiters on Royal Caribbean and Princess, I have yet to have a coconut cake with raspberry sauce on a cruise that was noteworthy.
Cruise Ports:
Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port:
Boardwalk Neighborhood on Symphony of the Seas
Day two on a cruise is a continuation of the exploration that began on embarkation day. Let's check out the Boardwalk Neighborhood - an iconic feature of Oasis Class Ships.
Boardwalk Dog House
The Boardwalk Dog House is a free dining option on Symphony of the Seas which specializes in, you guessed it, crafted hot dogs!
Boardwalk Dog House, Deck 6 on Symphony of the Seas
Boardwalk Dog House sample Menu.
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At the Dog House you can order things like:
You can add toppings like sautéed mixed peppers, sautéed onions, and sauerkraut along with classic condiments - ketchup, mustard, and relish. Consider adding a side of Potato Salad or Cole slaw to round it out. Which ships have Dog House?
Find Dog House on the following ships:
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Boardwalk Dog House Menu Sample
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Arcade & Sugar beach sweet shop
As you stroll down the Boardwalk on deck 6 of Symphony, you'll find arcade games and Sugar Beach.
What is Sugar Beach?
Sugar Beach is the name of the sweet shop on Symphony of the Seas. You have to pay extra to play the arcade games or indulge in the rainbow walls of candy at Sugar Beach. These activities are not included in your cruise fare.
Boardwalk Carousel
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On the other hand, the carousel (aka merry-go-round) on Symphony of the Seas is totally free and fun for all ages! It's pretty cool there is a merry-go-round on a cruise ship. The horses are hand carved and as you enter the Boardwalk Neighborhood you will see a series of carousel horses in varying stages of completion leading up to the merry-go-round. Love seeing a bit of the creative process behind this classic amusement park ride. |
Symphony of the Seas Boardwalk Carousel
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what is a boardwalk balcony?
There is a unique and controversial balcony type on some of Royal Caribbean's cruise ships called a "Boardwalk Balcony". These balcony cabins are not on the exterior of the ship, facing the ocean. Instead, they actually face inside the ship and overlook the Boardwalk Neighborhood.
The balconies you see in the picture above are the boardwalk balconies. A Boardwalk Balcony Stateroom Cabin Review is on the horizon, so stay tuned. ;)
The balconies you see in the picture above are the boardwalk balconies. A Boardwalk Balcony Stateroom Cabin Review is on the horizon, so stay tuned. ;)
Can you see the ocean from a boardwalk balcony?
Some Boardwalk Balcony rooms do have a view of the ocean from their balcony. Real Pictures of the views from cabins 10272 and 12329 are coming soon to help you pick the best boardwalk balcony room for your cruise!
Royal Caribbean Cruise Blogs:
Aqua Theater on symphony
The aqua theater is found at the aft of the ship (back) and is a unique feature of Royal Caribbean's Entertainment. Shows in the aqua theater are full of impressive feats including high dives and acrobatics.
Symphony of the Seas Tip: If you sit in the front rows of the aqua theater, beware as you will likely get splashed. :)
View of AquaTheater and Ultimate Abyss on Symphony of the Seas
If you have stacks of cash, consider booking an AquaTheater Suite. In your spacious suite with wrap around balcony, you can enjoy rear ocean views and never fight for a seat at the aqua shows!
In this panoramic picture you can see the rear ocean views, the Aqua Theater & Suites, the large screens (which, by the way, sometimes play sporting events) as well as the two rock climbing walls and the Ultimate Abyss Slide.
Ocean Views behind Aqua Theater on Symphony Cruise Ship
The Ultimate AByss
The Ultimate Abyss is a giant dry slide (as in a normal slide, not a water slide) which drops 10 stories! It's faster than the elevators ;)
You get in a special mat to go down the slide which helps ensure a smooth sliding experience. It's really fun and I recommend doing it at least once for street-cred, if you know what I mean. :p
10-story Slide at Sea and Rock Climbing Wall on Symphony of the Seas
The Ultimate Abyss slide is free. The rock climbing walls are also a free activity on Symphony of the Seas!
Packing Tip: Pack lace up tennis shoes/trainers if you want to participate in the rock wall or zip line. Shoes must have laces in order to participate. If you have slide on sneakers you won't be permitted. It's for the safety of those below - no one wants to get hit by your shoe if it somehow slipped off.
secret loungers on symphony
If you climb the stairs near the rock climbing walls in the Boardwalk Neighborhood, you have a chance of finding a secluded little area with just a few chairs to relax in and watch the clouds roll by.
A nook to relax in peace :)
All this exploring of the Boardwalk on deck 6 worked up an appetite and we hadn't yet visited the pizzeria onboard so we popped down to deck 5 to remedy that!
Sorrento's Pizzeria
You will not need a dining package to eat at Sorrento's as it is not a specialty dining restaurant. Sorrento's Pizzeria is a free restaurant on Symphony of the Seas!
Sorrento's Pizza on Symphony of the Seas
Sorrento's Pizzeria is casual, free cruise ship pizza. Is it the best pizza at sea? We can't say because we haven't tried them all.. yet ;) But is it a solid pizza? For sure. When you want a quick slice, Sorrento's is the spot. They are also the free food venue that is pretty much always open, so if you wake up at 2am and somehow you are hungry, you can count on Sorrento's.
Once the buffet (The Wind Jammer) is closed, Sorrento's is a reliable place to hydrate as they have a water station set up. Of course you can also ask for water at any bar as well.
Sorrento's pizza royal caribbean photo review
Sorrento's pizza offers a solid, thin crust pizza on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships. The menu for Sorrento's changes daily but you can pretty much always get a classic cheese or pepperoni pizza, as well as a vegetarian option and gluten free pizzas on request!
If you so desire you can add a sprinkle of oregano and red pepper. You can dine in at Sorrento's and be part of the Royal Promenade atmosphere, or take your slices somewhere with a view, like we did. :)
Free zipline on symphony of the seas
Can you see yourself in this picture? On the right side, just about to land after finishing this zipline on a cruise ship!? You can do it and it's totally free! Just remember to pack your lace-up shoes.
I love this vantage point from the pool deck (deck 15) looking toward the back of the ship and down on part of the Boardwalk Neighborhood.
A Zip-Liner flies across deck 15 of Symphony of the Seas
Above you see the 8 or so decks worth of Boardwalk Balcony Rooms. Notice the view of the ocean at the back of the ship and the way these balcony rooms get some fresh air and natural light even though they are facing the inside of the ship.
The Ultimate Abyss' purple slides end on the Boardwalk (deck 6) and right at the Johnny Rockets restaurant in case you want a milkshake. :)
The Ultimate Abyss' purple slides end on the Boardwalk (deck 6) and right at the Johnny Rockets restaurant in case you want a milkshake. :)
Mini Golf on Symphony of the seas
On the other end of deck 15 is a Mini Golf course which is also free, of course! We came back another day to play a round, but as you can see it's very cute with lots of little themed elements for taking classic family vacation mini golf pics.
Symphony of the Seas Mini Golf Course is Free!
Flow Rider & Ultimate Abyss
It was about time to get ready for dinner, but we decided to just run up to deck 16 real quick to see where the entrance to the Ultimate Abyss slide was and get the low-down on the flow rider.
Enter the Ultimate Abyss and drop 10 stories in the middle of the ocean, if you dare!
Would you climb in the mouth of this giant angler fish and slide down 10 stories?!
FlowRider Instructions and Warnings
The flow rider is a surf simulator that you can enjoy for free on Symphony of the Seas. Unlike some other Royal Caribbeans which have just one flowrider, Symphony actually has two. This is great because those who are ready to truly surf can enjoy dedicated time while others who are new or just want to bodyboard can have a blast on the other.
FlowRider Instructions and Warnings
In addition to these boards, you do have to do a short training and sign a waiver to use the flow rider. You will be given a wristband which indicates you have completed these steps and if you are qualified for bodyboarding only or for flow-boarding (stand up like surfing)
Dinner in the main dining room
Crispy Buttermilk Calamari.
Golden fried squid rings served with a fresh fennel salad and chipotle-lime aioli.
Also shown is another shot of the cheesy dinner roll, but mainly because this Echte Boter (butter) was so delicious! Since cruise ships are sailing all over the world and sourcing food in each port, you do get to try some unique varieties of ordinary things - butter included!
Seafood Linguine.
Al dente ribbon pasta tossed with a Chardonnay cream sauce, sautéed bay scallops, shrimp, and mussels.
Seafood Linguine in the Main Dining Room
Roasted Beef Tenderloin.
Roasted and carved with creamy mashed potatoes, asparagus, and a rich peppercorn sauce.
Roast Beef Tenderloin in the Main Dining Room
Creme Brulee.
Smooth, rich vanilla custard topped with a crackly caramelized sugar topping. A Royal classic.
Creme Brûlée Dessert
Capuccino Chocolate Cake.
Rich chocolate sponge cake layered with chocolate ganache, topped with a whipped coffee and sweet cream foam dusted with Dutch cocoa. No sugar added dessert.
Cappuccino Chocolate Cake
Individual Mini Salad Cups
Just loved the presentation of these little salad cups in the Wind Jammer Buffet. Great idea for dinner party salad appetizers inspired by travel.
Mini Salad Cups
This brings us to the end of our Sea Day on Symphony. We actually have another sea day ahead before stopping in beautiful Aruba.
All Aboard Symphony of the Seas!
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Embarkation at Port Everglades
Our 8 night Southern Caribbean Cruise departed from Port Everglades, the cruise port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We arrived 2 nights in advance (free flights - thanks to Chase Ultimate Rewards Points!) and stayed at a nearby cruise port hotel. Uber (actually Lyft) from our hotel to the port only cost $4.17 thanks to a Lyft discount I had.
How long did embarkation take? Not long at all! We were in the terminal at 11:43 and by 12:04 we were onboard!
That Embarkation Day Buzz
Fort Lauderdale blogs:
Exploring Symphony of the seas
Your first time onboard a new cruise ship is so much fun - there is so much to explore! You probably spent months researching and learning about every nook and cranny of the ship (okay, a certain bunch of people do this... I'm assuming you're part of the club since you're here? ☺)
Today is the day to see if you can remember literally anything from all your research. haha!
Symphony of the Seas Pool
Embarkation Day Tip: Lifeguards are posted so have your swimwear handy and you can enjoy the pool during one of the few times that it will totally empty! ;)
Central Park Neighborhood
Above you can see a view of the Central Park Neighborhood - yes, those are real trees! Symphony of the Seas also has 3 water slides and multiple pools including a saltwater pool.
El Loco Fresh Mexican Restaurant on Symphony of the Seas
El Loco Fresh is the popular Mexican casual dining restaurant on Symphony of the Seas where you can get things like grab and go tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Be sure to load them up with fresh pico de Gallo, salsa, and guacamole! You can also find fresh fruit cups here.
View of Celebrity Apex in Port Everglades from onboard Symphony of the Seas
Celebrity Apex was also in port in Fort Lauderdale!
Embarkation day lunch
We traveled in a group of 8 relatives for this cruise and only 2 people in the group knew we were coming. It was a really fun surprise seeing the reactions of aunts and uncles. We met up in the Solarium Bistro and snagged a large round table for lunch. This smaller buffet area was a nice spot to meet and I was soaking in the novelty that I only managed to get 2 pics of my lunch.
I have to say the Indian food was excellent and I also thoroughly enjoyed this little carrot cake dessert cup! It would make a perfect individual dessert idea for a dinner party and someday I hope to replicate it for Home Cooking Inspired By Travel.
Oceanview Cabin Photos
Around 2pm we had finished eating and were ready to check out our cabin. It was our first time in an ocean view stateroom. You can see all our cabin 3198 photos here:
Dinner in the main dining room
We had traditional dining on Royal Caribbean which means we had a table reserved for our group every night at the same time. Our early dining time was 5:30 PM. Of course we could also dine at another time by walking in and waiting for a table, eating at the buffet or other casual dining venue, or eating at a specialty restaurant.
Embarkation day Welcome Aboard menu
Welcome Aboard Dinner Menu on Symphony of the Seas
Different than our experience on Sun Princess, on Symphony you ordered your meal and dessert at the same time.
What we ordered.
Caesar Salad.
A classic caesar salad is a cruise dinner must.. if you're into that sort of thing. :) Every night your table will be presented with a basket of bread/rolls. The one shown below seemed like an asiago cheese roll and was delicious. You may need to ask for more of these if you like them because each basket will probably only have one of them.
crab cake.
Crispy crab cake fried until golden brown with creamy Old Bay sauce and a tomato-cucumber salad.
Pan Roasted Fish Fillet.
Flaky white fish over sweet peppers, snow peas, corn, creamy potato leek gratin and a saffron butter sauce.
Southern Fried Chicken.
Seasoned, crispy chicken with Tabasco hot honey, buttery mashed potatoes, sweet corn on the cob.
Dessert
Dark Chocolate Custard.
Silky custard infused with rich cocoa, finished with a fresh tart raspberry.
Key Lime Pie.
Silky key lime custard baked in a brown butter graham cracker crust topped with whipped cream.
royal theater: Dare to Dream
After dinner we went straight to The Royal Theater to watch our first production of the cruise - Flight Dare to Dream.
Flight! Dare to Dream
Royal Caribbean Cruise Tip: Reserve your entertainment on the Royal Caribbean App so you can get the best seats.
Oh, Hey!
We're Justin and Marissa
We love to travel and eat!
Traveling Through Food is a place to share some of our adventures in travel and food so you can find inspiration for your next big trip whether it's around the world or down the freezer aisle at the grocery store. :p
Check out this recent cruise post:
Check out this recent Restaurant Review:
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