Cruise & Ferry Interiors 2021

7 1 As the Quantum series expands with Odyssey of the Seas, the company can reflect with pride on another groundbreaking class of ships. “We have very enthusiastic expectations for Odyssey of the Seas because it is coming full circle for us,” says Gonzalez. “When we started designing the Quantum Class series, it was intended to be for the Caribbean, but markets were changing rapidly and so we were quite deep into the project when the decision was made to deploy her in Asia. Then Ovation of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas went to China and they’ve been incredibly successful, so Odyssey of the Seas will now be deployed in the Caribbean market, which we know really well and is a sweet spot for us, giving us a lot to build on and dig into.” Royal Caribbean promises that Odyssey of the Seas will “capture the imagination of families and adventurous vacationers” with her onboard offerings and captivating allure. “Perhaps the area that embodies the atmosphere of the ship more than any other is on the open decks, including the totally reimagined pool deck,” says Gonzalez. “I think that SeaPlex is now more connected with the open decks and we’ve put a great deal of attention into the design of Splashaway Bay and the other pool areas that we have onboard.” The connection between the open decks and nearby activity-led venues will inevitably generate a buzz too. Moving inside, highlights are numerous and easy to find, says Gonzalez: “The suite experience is very special for us. It’s an area that we’ve really developed and strengthened from Quantum to Odyssey and I think it has really hit its stride now.” Several signature venues have also been enhanced for Odyssey of the Seas. “Two70 has been very special from the beginning but we’ve made some small adjustments to improve it,” says Gonzalez. “We’ve also introduced a new concept – Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – which offers guests the chance to look down over the mezzanine level and into the main dining room. This also creates a beautiful connection through The Via to the finale at Two70 The ship’s next-generation SeaPlex venue is the largest indoor and outdoor activity space at sea, with bumper cars, the venue’s first Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and more