Navigator of the Seas Cruise Ship

The fourth of Royal Caribbean's five Voyager-class vessels was christened in 2002 and underwent a huge refurbishment in January 2014. The ‘revitalization’ of Navigator of the Seas saw new speciality restaurants and FlowRider surf simulator. Unquestionably the ‘something for everyone’ mantra that is been a cornerstone of Royal Caribbean’s approach to the evolutionary design of their ships has been taken to new heights. Nowhere is this more evident than the ‘virtual balconies’ that were incorporated into this vessel during the refit. 81 of the ship's existing standard interior cabins were enhanced with floor-to-ceiling HD screens that allow passengers to get a view of the ocean captured from an outside camera. This high-tech system also brings the sounds of the ocean to create a soothing seaborne ambience.

Staterooms on the 3,686-passenger Navigator of the Seas are comfortable and well-designed and each offers a sitting area and about half boast private verandas. Suites range from the 265 sq ft Junior Suite up to the 1,337 sq ft Royal Suite.

The main dining room – Sapphire – spans three decks and has a grand staircase and dramatic chandelier. Passengers can choose ‘My Time Dining’ and be seated whenever they want between 5.30 pm. and 9 pm. Otherwise, there are two scheduled dining times: main seating at 5.30 pm and second seating at 8 pm. There’s a good variety of alternative dining options which incur a surcharge. These include Chops Grille where the speciality is premium dry-aged steaks; the family-style Italian cuisine so popular in Giovanni’s Table; Izumi for sushi rolls and Asian-fusion treats priced à la carte; and Mexican chicken quesadillas, tacos, empanadas and burritos that make Sabor such a hit.

The three-deck high Royal Theatre stages revue-style shows which some passengers find a tad lacklustre. This is never a criticism of the ice shows that are staged in Studio B where world-class and Olympic-standard skaters give a superb display accompanied by dramatic music. The vast Casino Royale is bewildering for folk who’ve never been to Las Vegas but for those chasing lady luck, there’s Roulette, Poker, Blackjack and Texas Hold’em.

The innovations hit all the right notes with us, especially the R-Bar with its retro-cool decor and well-trained bar staff. We also like the Cosmopolitan Club in the Viking Crown Lounge with obliging DJ; as well as a pint of cask-conditioned in the Two Poets Pub. However, nothing beats watching a movie on the Jumbotron screen above the main pool under the tropical stars.