Tour of the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

By Linda Garrison, About.com GuideJuly 9, 2012

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The Oasis of the Seas has been one of the most-talked about ships launched in this century.

Oasis is huge, absolutely beautiful, and the innovative neighborhood concept provides a marvelous atmosphere for cruisers. The ship is contemporary, sleek, and has touches of both elegance and casual fun. Her sister ship the Allure of the Seas is just as amazing.

I originally had some trepidations about this new mega-ship, but my worries vanished when I stepped onto the Royal Promenade from the dock, walked around the ship, and got my first looks at the Boardwalk, Central Park, and pool deck. The "WOW factor" definitely kicked in. The Oasis of the Seas will appeal to anyone who loves large ship cruising, but also those who have never cruised but enjoy resort vacations. The wide variety of entertainment, food, and accommodations should attract many fun-loving travelers to cruising.

Since I was only on a half-full ship for a two-night cruise to nowhere, I had two open questions. "How will the crowds be when the ship is full?", and "how long will it take to go ashore in the Caribbean ports?" The ship has been sailing for a few years now, and the reviews I have read from travelers on the Oasis of the Seas are generally very positive, so these two concerns have been allayed.

One quick tip for those lucky travelers booking a cruise on the Oasis of the Seas or Allure of the Seas -- you can pre-book reservations for the free shows and entertainment before you cruise. You can also pre-book reservations for the restaurants. Any planning you can do before you cruise will free up valuable time onboard.