Articles

Royal Caribbean Launches “Liberty” May 2007
by Roy Witman © 2008

Even amid sluggish profits, the growth in the cruise industry continues to increase. As it does, cruise lines are rushing to create new, more exciting and bigger ships to accommodate the demand. Royal Caribbean, which launches one ship per year, on average, made a royal splash in 2006 with the introduction of “Freedom of the Seas,” the largest cruise ship to date. However, 2007 holds promise as well - thanks to the pending launch of “Liberty of the Seas” this May.

Weighing in at 160,000 tons, “Liberty” will go nose-to-nose with “Freedom” in many respects, but will offer passengers a wealth of shipboard and shore excitement to choose from.

Accommodations

With something for everyone, “Liberty” will present a wide range of accommodation options. Economy-class staterooms with ocean views and ample space can be booked for reasonable rates. For those with more elaborate tastes (and wallets), practically every class of cabin is available all the way to the Presidential Family Suite.

With 1,200+ square feet of living space, this suite delivers two master bedrooms, two additional bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, a living area, a dining area and a private, 800+ square foot balcony - perfect for families or other groups.

Onboard Activities

“Liberty” has one of the most diverse selections of activities of any cruise ship. With innovations including a screening room, a solarium and cooking classes, guests of all ages can find something of interest. But “Liberty” also follows in “Freedom’s” footsteps with a first-at-sea rock climbing wall, H20 Zone water park, ice skating rink, boxing ring and more. Of course, the popular favorites of day spa, casinos and pools are available with elaborate upgrades from those found on other ships.

And the kids have a world all to themselves with a tremendous lineup of age-specific fun things to see and do. Of course, activities are supervised by Royal Caribbean staff members to ensure safety at all times.

There’s also a Royal Promenade complete with cobblestone streets. Filled with shops and restaurants, the entire family can enjoy this active spot. You’ll especially enjoy a stop at Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop!

Destinations

Launching May 19, 2007, for her maiden voyage, “Liberty” will set sail for the Caribbean. Her lineup of itineraries will eventually include Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman Islands; Montego Bay, Jamaica and other well-loved ports of call.

While visiting these popular areas, guests will be able to take part in a world- class selection of land and sea excursions. Horseback riding, mountain bike tours, parasailing, whitewater rafting, flight-seeing tours, golf, water sports of all types and wildlife tours are just a few of the exciting adventures passengers can take part in.

Business At Sea

Lending herself to also accommodate business travelers and those looking to conduct business activities onboard a ship, “Liberty” will make available a full- service conference center complete with audio/visual capabilities as well as WiFi throughout the ship. Whether you’re looking for an innovative place to hold a conference or seminar or just need a way to keep in touch while you’re at sea, the business capabilities of “Liberty” will impress you.

Godmother

Most cruise lines engage a celebrity or other well-known person to be the godmother of each ship they launch. Royal Caribbean, however, takes a new approach by bestowing this honor on everyday people.

“Liberty’s” godmother is a wonderful lady named Katherine Louise Calder. Selected as part of a nationwide search, Calder was given the title due to her service as a foster mom to over 400 special-needs children. What a wonderful representative to have!

Reservations are currently available on “Liberty” for voyages scheduled for May and after. If you’re looking for a massive vacation experience for the whole family, “Liberty” can certainly deliver!