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Everything you Need to Know About the Royal Caribbean Ship Odyssey of the Seas


Megan P.

There are few cruises that offer the same opportunities for creating unforgettable memories like Odyssey of the Seas. Be it basking in the sun on the pool deck, riding the surf simulator, savoring the delectable dishes at the restaurants on board, or joining in on the lively party atmosphere late into the evening, Odyssey of the Seas has an abundance of incredible experiences to offer.

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This Quantum Ultra Class ship is one of the newest additions to the Royal Caribbean cruise ship fleet and is sure to impress any new cruiser. You can expect an unmatched island vibe, delicious dining options, a glamorous resort-style pool deck, and unforgettable experiences onboard Odyssey of the Seas.

With so much to do and see on Odyssey of the Seas, you may feel a little overwhelmed at first. Fortunately, the cruise line offers a Cruise Compass, which you will receive every evening to serve as a guide for everything that’s going on the next day.

Aerial View of Odyssey of the Seas Full Ship

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Overview of the Cruise Ship Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is arguably the most renowned mass-market cruise line worldwide, but few really know what it takes to create the unrivaled experience Royal Caribbean cruises offer.

The cruise line released its immense Oasis Class cruise ships, Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas, in 2018 and 2016, respectively, which can accommodate up to 6000 guests at full capacity. These ships are so massive that the cruise line had to have their centers hollowed out to create a lighter interior.

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This class was a great success, but the cruise line soon found that not everyone is interested in boarding such an enormous cruise ship, and not every port wants to accept it. Royal Caribbean responded by introducing another ship class, Quantum Class, to offer passengers cruise ships that are just as diverse in activities but not as huge.

Odyssey of the Seas is considered a Quantum Ultra Class ship as it better fits the description of Quantum Class ships but offers slightly more regarding facilities and amenities.

Odyssey of the Seas was expected to debut in 2020, but the pandemic delayed its maiden voyage, and the cruise ship became the first Royal Caribbean cruise ship to debut after the global pandemic.

Although Odyssey of the Seas represents a triumph for the cruise industry as a whole, Royal Caribbean always intended it to be the last Quantum Class ship to enter service. Below is an overview of the general characteristics of Odyssey of the Seas to give you a sense of the sheer size of this ground-breaking cruise ship.

  • Passenger Capacity of 4 198 at double occupancy with a maximum capacity of 5 498
  • 1 150 crew members
  • 2 105 staterooms in total
  • Gross tonnage of 167 704
  • 1 138 feet in length
  • 135 feet in width
  • 14 decks accessible to guests
  • Cruising speed of 22 knots
  • Draft of 28 feet
  • Maiden voyage on the 31st of July 2021
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Odyssey of the Seas Restaurants and Dining

Guests have a selection of 17 restaurants onboard Odyssey of the Seas to choose from, in addition to lounges and multiple bars. Royal Caribbean designed the ship with the intention of giving guests plenty of options and space to prevent the venues on the cruise ship from feeling too crowded.

The wide variety of dining options (free and paid) allows guests to choose the cooking style, cuisine, and price range that best fits their needs. A selection of complimentary dining options is included in the cruise fare, and many guests are delighted dining only at included restaurants, as the food is delicious and fresh and covers an extensive range of tastes to cater to every preference.

giovannis table italian pasta dish

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Guests are encouraged to make reservations for the specialty restaurant options in advance, as these dining options are very popular, and a table is not guaranteed. Below is a comprehensive list of all the restaurants and bars available on Odyssey of the Seas:

  • Main Dining Room – stretches over three levels, serves a la carte menu, seats 1 844 guests, and offers daily rotating menus.
  • Golden Dining Room & Lounge – exclusive to suite guests, complimentary (included in cruise fare)
  • Silver Dining Room – exclusive to suite guests, complimentary (included in cruise fare)
  • Teppanyaki – a specialty restaurant, Japanese cuisine
  • Windjammer Marketplace – offers a buffet, included restaurant, offers Early Breakfast & Breakfast, lunch, and supper, and offers everything from pizza and noodles to Chinese hot pot and Teppanyaki
  • Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine – a specialty restaurant, stretched across two levels, consists of its own bar, overlooks the stern, requires reservations
  • Chef’s Table – gourmet dining, private restaurant, seats 14 guests
  • Chops Grille – serves seafood and steak, a specialty restaurant
  • Izumi Japanese Cuisine – requires reservations, specialty restaurant
  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen – reservations are recommended, a Wine Bar and specialty restaurant that serves oven-baked pizza and Italian specialties.
  • Leaf and Bean – coffee shop/patisserie/cafe that sells beverages, pastries, and gourmet desserts
  • The Cafe at Two70 – casual dining option offering bold global flavors
  • Solarium Bistro – healthy food options, used to be called Devinly Decadence
  • Noodle Bar
  • Sorrento’s Pizza – an included restaurant with rotating daily menus
  • Splashaway Cafe – indoor food bar by the pool
  • Lime and Coconut – bar with views of the swimming pool, stretched over two decks
  • Sichuan Red – a specialty restaurant, Asian cuisine
  • El Loco Fresh – last Mexican cuisine, serves burritos, tacos, salsas, and quesadillas
teppanyaki hibachi vegetable grill

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Activities and Attractions on the Odyssey of the Seas Cruise Ship

Pool Deck

Let’s dive right into the biggest draw of Odyssey of the Seas (no pun intended), the totally reimagined pool deck. The cruise ship features two primary public pools. The cruise ship will be sailing to the Mediterranean and the Caribbean on its first journeys, promising sunlight in abundance, so both pools are open-air and don’t have shelters.

The main pool deck also offers a kids’ splash area so their parents can take a dip or relax in pool loungers while keeping an eye on their little ones.

Odyssey of the Seas has a new feature that isn’t found on the other ships in its class: the bar on the pool deck is massive! The Lime and Coconut stretches over two decks, reducing the waiting time for drinks at the island vibes poolside. The Flowrider surf simulator is found at the back of the upper pool deck.

jewel of the seas pool deck

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

The North Star

Rather than installing towering water slides, Odyssey of the Seas features the North Star, which is an observation pod mounted on an armature reaching around 300 feet above sea level.

This impressive structure can hold up to 14 guests and can dangle over the water and stretch straight into the sky to present picturesque views. Passengers must book their spot in the North Star in advance, and the fee depends on the type of excursion, such as a ride straight up, sideways, or night rides.

At night, the North Star offers the most incredible views over the lit pool deck. A ride on the North Star is not intended to feel like something you’d find at an amusement park. It is slow and steady. However, the pod may jiggle at times, so if you struggle with fear of heights or claustrophobia, you may want to skip this adventure.

north star pool deck ship aerial activity

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

The Royal Esplanade

Odyssey of the Seas set Royal Caribbean back an estimated 1 billion dollars, but the cruise line developed the Royal Esplanade with the goal of recouping some of that investment.

The Royal Esplanade is a double-story mall found on decks four and five. This area features countless shops and restaurants and serves as the shopping center of Odyssey of the Seas. Everything from jewelry, designer brands, and beauty items to Starbucks and specialty restaurants can be found here.

The included restaurants and the main dining room are all set on a higher deck, giving the specialty restaurants at the Royal Esplanade an extra sense of luxury.

Here, you can hop between some great bars like Boleros, which is a Latin-themed bar with frequent live music and entertainment shows, Crown & Compass Pub, Izumi, Chops Grille, and many more.

The Bionic Bar is a unique addition to Odyssey of the Seas, as it features robotic arms that mix and serve drinks to guests. Royal Caribbean installed this feature in some of its other ships after receiving great feedback from guests.

Royal Caribbean soon joined the popular game of selling their own branded merch. At the Royal Esplanade, you’ll find The Shop, the ideal place to shop for some ship-branded clothes and souvenirs.

Free photos of Apparel

The Royal Theater

Also located on decks four and five, The Royal Theater is one of the Odyssey of the Seas’ most impressive features. Royal Caribbean hosted amazing adaptations of limeless Broadway hits at the Odyssey’s launch but decided to use those funds to upgrade the stagecraft after licensing agreements came into play.

The current entertainment at the Royal Theater by Royal Caribbean can be likened to Las Vegas, only on water. From trap doors, lighted drones, and impressive costumes to aerialists and precision timing, the shows on offer at The Royal Theater are sure to keep you entertained for hours and set the mood for the dazzling night to come.

Odyssey of the Seas also boasts a second showroom found on decks five and six, which features wraparound windows and shows that aren’t limited to live performances. This showroom also functions as the backdrop for the ship’s virtual reality scavenger hunts and a nightclub.

navigator of the seas showgirls dancers patriotic

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

The Music Hall

Royal Caribbean states that this Music Hall is rock ‘n roll inspired, so you can expect to see some great cover bands and ever participate in a fun karaoke night onboard. The Music Hall is riddled with atmospheric bars and has a type of lounge effect that makes it the perfect place for conversing.

Free photos of Drums

SeaPlex

Royal Caribbean incorporated yet another unique feature to their latest ships, including the new Odyssey of the Seas. At SeaPlex, you can let loose on bumper cars, which are found on deck 15 at the top of the cruise ship. The area also functions as a basketball court.

Other Quantum Class ships also feature bumper cars and amazing tracks to enjoy them on, but Odyssey of the Seas is the first to offer the attached Playmakers Sports Bar. The added benefit of getting your drinks and food without having to travel too far from the bumper cars just contributes to making SeaPlex one of the greatest areas on the ship.

If you grow tired of the excitement, you can sneak away for a few minutes to grab a beer and watch a live game at Playmakers Sports Bar before challenging your friends to a game of skeeball.

seaplex bumper cars activity

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Adventure Ocean

Of the many areas designated to let kids have the best time ever, Adventure Ocean certainly stands out. Admission to Adventure Ocean is free, and no adults who are not staff members are allowed to enter, so your children will be safe and make lots of new friends.

Adventure Ocean also hosts some special events on certain cruises, including party vibes late at night for adults to enjoy.

Free photos of Kid

Sky Pad

Located in the same region as SeaPlex, Sky Pad is a wonderful area where guests can enjoy bungee-bouncing adventures. The outdoor rock climbing wall is the perfect place to get some exercise, and the skydiving simulator is enough to get your adrenaline pumping properly.

MA mariner of the seas exterior skypad virtual bungee jump

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Zone Zero Virtual Adventure Zone

Adjacent to the SeaPlex, the cruise line describes Zone Zero to be an incredibly immersive virtual reality hub. Zone Zero is the latest development in the attempt by Royal Caribbean to incorporate more virtual reality diversions.

The virtual reality experience comes to life by means of the ship’s equipment and visors and the guests’ smartphones, which they can use to create various images on the screen.

This Virtual Adventure Zone is a brand-new addition to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and made its depute on Odyssey of the Seas.

odyssey of the seas zone zero friends cruise activities virtual reality games

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Solarium Lounge

The Solarium is an Odyssey of the Seas’ exclusive area for guests that are 16 or older. The area features a bar, a health cafe, whirlpools, hot tubs, and plenty of secluded little nooks that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle.

Odyssey of the Seas’ fitness center, vitality spa (Sea Spa), and salon are all within a short distance of the must-see Solarium.

solarium sunset pool whirlpool activity

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

The fantastic attractions mentioned above are just a handful of the great things you can expect to find on Odyssey of the Seas. Below is a comprehensive list of all the entertainment, lounges, clubs, and other venues on Odyssey of the Seas cruises:

  • The Music Hall with live entertainment and karaoke nights
  • The Royal Theater boasts 3D movies, Broadway-inspired shows, acrobatic performances, gameshow, and incredible shows, including “Seven Chapters: One Adventure,” Mamma Mia!, and more.
  • Two70 Lounge, an observation lounge with beautiful views, live entertainment, and two productions, namely Oceanides and Seven Chapters: One Adventure (exclusive to Odyssey of the Seas, Roya; Caribbean)
  • Diamond Club Lounge and Bar, Concierge Club and Lounge, and Golden Room
  • SeaTrek Shop, a photo Gallery and diving equipment shop
  • Schooner Bar, North Star Bar, Bionic Bar, Vintage Wine Bar, and Sky Bar
  • Open-air movie screen
  • Karaoke Room called Star Moment
  • Casino Royale
  • Royal Esplanade
  • Fitness Center and vitality spa
  • Shop and photo gallery called Focus
  • Solarium Lounge
  • Adventure Ocean, H2O Zone, The Night Club and Living Room for teens, Video Games Arcade, and Royal Babies and Toys Nursery
  • North Star
  • FlowRider Surf Simulator
  • SeaPleax features bumper cars, roller-skating, circus school, and a basketball court
  • Playmakers Sports Bar and games arcade with HDTVs, fast food, and a wide selection of beers, board games, darts, and billiards
  • Sky Pad with virtual reality games and a bungee trampoline
  • A laser tag arena with a Royal Caribbean team game called Clash of the Crystal City
flowrider surf simulator instructor man day activity

Royal Caribbean International – www.royalcaribbean.com

Odyssey of the Seas 2023 Itinerary

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: January 8th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: January 14th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: January 22nd, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: January 28th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: February 5th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: February 11th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: February 19th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

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Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: February 25th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights 

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: March 5th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: February 11th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: March 19th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: February 25th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: April 2nd, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Cruise

Departing Date: April 8th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: April 16th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Transatlantic Cruise

Departing Date: April 22nd, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: 14 nights

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Holy Land Cruise

Departing Date: May 6th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: 12 nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: May 18th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: ten nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: May 28th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: June 4th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: June 11th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: June 18th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

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Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: June 25th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: July 2nd, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: July 9th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: July 16th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: July 23rd, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: July 30th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: August 6th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: August 13th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: seven nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: August 20th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: August 28th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: nine nights

Free photos of Santorini

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: September 6th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: nine nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: September 15th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: nine nights

Greek Isles Cruise

Departing Date: September 24th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Holy Land Cruise

Departing Date: October 2nd, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: 13 nights

Holy Land Cruise

Departing Date: October 15th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: 12 nights

Transatlantic Cruise

Departing Date: October 27th, 2023

Departing from: Civitavecchia, Rome

Return to: Civitavecchia, Rome

Cruise Duration: 15 nights

Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: November 11th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: November 19th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: November 25th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: December 3rd, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Free photos of Beach

Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: December 9th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: December 17th, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights

Southern Caribbean Holiday Cruise

Departing Date: December 23rd, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: eight nights

Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day Cruise

Departing Date: December 31st, 2023

Departing from: Fort Lauderdale

Return to: Fort Lauderdale

Cruise Duration: six nights