Splendour of the Seas
Centrum
Royal Caribbean International
Be advised: Splendour of the Seas is no longer part of the Royal Caribbean fleet. In June 2016, the ship relaunched with the U.K. line Thomson Cruises as TUI Discovery.
At just 867 feet in length, Splendour of the Seas is smaller than most of her Vision-class fleetmates — and that’s just how guests like it. With a passenger capacity of 1,830, this ship feels surprisingly roomy. She also houses some unexpected features for a vessel her size, such as an indoor swimming pool topped by a retractable glass magrodome and a two-story dining room flanked by rows of floor-to-ceiling windows.
What We Love
Open Deck Space: Splendour of the Seas offers an enormous amount of open deck space for a ship her size, including a wraparound jogging track on the upper deck and a broad, open pool deck with plenty of loungers for soaking in some sun.
The Centrum Experience: Royal Caribbean’s live acrobatic show seems to work even better aboard Splendour of the Seas, with thrilling stunts performed in the ship’s soaring, multi-deck atrium.
Best Known For
Windows, Windows, Everywhere: Splendour of the Seas was originally dubbed a "Ship of Light," thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that line each and every public room. If you enjoy staring at the sea, this ship features a better connection to the waves and the horizon than more modern mega-ships.
Specialty Dining Venues: A 2011 refurbishment added an array of specialty dining options, including Asian-fusion at Izumi, steaks at Chops Grille, bite-size portions of classic dishes at Viking Crown Lounge, and a multi-course tasting menu at Chef's Table.
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Who It's Best For
Value-Conscious Cruisers: Because Splendour of the Seas sails shorter or less-in-demand routes (she's in the Arabian Gulf this winter), some sailings can be booked at bargain prices.
Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
She’s Bidding Royal Caribbean Farewell: If you want to sail aboard Splendour of the Seas, book right now: Royal Caribbean is transferring her to German cruise operator TUI in April 2016. She’ll sail as Thomson Discovery beginning in June 2016.
Aaron Saunders is a Calgary-based contributor to ShermansCruise.com.
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Splendour of the Seas at a Glance
- Line: Royal Caribbean
- Number of Passengers: 1830
- Ship Size: Large
- Launch Date: 1995
- Refurbish Date: 2011
