nowhere cruise singapore

Singapore to start ‘cruises to nowhere’ from November under pilot scheme

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SINGAPORE — Travel-starved Singapore residents will soon be able to board “cruises to nowhere” under a pilot scheme with stringent Covid-19 safety measures set in place, including mandatory testing for both passengers and crew.

Genting Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International are in the process of attaining the Singapore Tourism Board's CruiseSafe certification.

• Two cruise lines, Genting Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International, given green light to offer cruises with no ports of call
• They must sail with reduced capacity of up to 50 per cent and implement various safety measures
• STB will monitor outcome of pilots to decide next steps

SINGAPORE — Travel-starved Singapore residents will soon be able to board “cruises to nowhere” under a pilot scheme with stringent Covid-19 safety measures set in place, including mandatory testing for both passengers and crew. 

Two cruise lines have been given the green light to offer such round-trips with no ports of call — Genting Cruise Lines’ World Dream will begin sailing on Nov 6, followed by Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas in December, said the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in a press release on Thursday (Oct 8).

Both vessels are homeported here and must sail with a reduced capacity of up to 50 per cent, and only take passengers who are Singapore residents.

The safety measures are being developed under the tourism board’s new CruiseSafe certification programme, which must be attained by cruise lines before they can sail out of Singapore.

The measures include: 

• Infection control measures at every stage of a passenger’s journey, such as a mandatory Covid-19 test prior to boarding
• Frequent cleaning and sanitisation onboard the ship
• Safe management measures aligned with prevailing national policy at the time of sailing
• Ensuring 100 per cent fresh air throughout the ship

The STB said its programme is benchmarked against global standards from various cruise lines, airlines and institutes such as the World Health Organization. 

The board added that Singapore is “one of the first countries to develop and implement a mandatory audit and certification programme for cruise lines before they can commence sailings”.

Genting Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International are in the process of attaining the certification. 

“They were approved for the pilot as they have demonstrated the ability to put in place stringent protocols and precautionary measures as part of their CruiseSafe certification,” said the STB. 

Pilot cruises will have to comply with prevailing safe management measures, such as mask-wearing and 1m-safe distancing.

“Regular inspections will be conducted on board during the pilots to ensure compliance,” the STB said.

“Cruise lines that are found to be non-compliant will be subjected to penalties including fines, suspension of sailings and revocation of CruiseSafe certification,” it added.

“The Government will monitor the outcomes of the pilot sailings carefully in the coming months before deciding on the next steps for cruises." 

CREW SUBJECT TO STRICTER RULES

The crew on pilot cruises are subjected to stringent measures beyond Singapore’s prevailing requirements for cross-border travel, said the STB.

Those who need to enter Singapore must first undergo 14 days of isolation in their home country and test negative for Covid-19 before their departure to Singapore.

They will then be tested on arrival in Singapore, serve a 14-day stay-home notice and undergo another test after. Once on board, crew members will also be routinely tested.

PROTOCOLS IN PLACE, SAY CRUISE LINES

In a separate press release, Royal Caribbean said it has implemented “rigorous protocols” which include upgraded heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems that enhance filtration.

It is also offering perks such as full refunds for guests who test positive for Covid-19 during their voyage.

Meanwhile, Genting Cruise Lines said in a press release that safe food and beverage handling procedures will be put in place. Self-service at buffet restaurants will also be suspended, its website stated.

RISKS INVOLVED, SAY CRITICS

The global cruise industry has largely ground to halt due to virus-related travel restrictions, and following a series of outbreaks on packed vessels.

But the STB’s move to resume cruises could spark future Covid-19 outbreaks, critics have warned. 

In an AFP report on Monday, Ms Marcie Keever, oceans and vessels programme director at Friends of the Earth, cautioned about "the potential to have Covid outbreaks" on cruise liners.

"The cruise industry was a large contributor to Covid outbreaks in several ports around the world," she said.

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Ultimate Guide to Singapore’s Cruise to Nowhere on Royal Caribbean

If you have never been on a cruise or if the concept of cruising for a vacation doesn’t attract you, then this post is meant just for you. Even till a few weeks back, I would have never imagined going on a cruise for vacation. However, experiencing Singapore’s “Cruise to Nowhere” on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of Seas has completely changed my views about cruising. At first, the concept of cruising with “no destinations” felt absurd and the perfect hot-spot for breeding the pandemic. Travel-starved for 14 months, this was the only semblance of travel I could afford living in Singapore. With international borders still closed, I am happy to have experienced this mini-getaway that did wonders to my mental health. Also, thanks to Singapore’s exemplary management of the pandemic so far, I was never concerned about health and safety.

Before going on Royal Caribbean’s Cruise to Nowhere, I had no idea what to expect from it. A few positive reviews from friends inspired me to book this cruise as I was desperate for some change. But little did I know, I needed to plan a few important things that would make this cruise experience better. Although spontaneous getaway is good, you definitely don’t want to miss these insider tips to make this cruise vacation even more amazing. So if you want to find the ultimate guide to planning the perfect “cruise to nowhere” vacation in Singapore, continue reading below.

Table of Contents

REVIEW OF QUANTUM OF THE SEAS

Things to know before booking the cruise to nowhere, 1. what is the itinerary of cruise to nowhere.

As the name suggests, Cruise to Nowhere sails with no fixed destinations. Typically the first day starts off from the Marina Bay Cruise Center in Singapore when the cruise departs at 8pm. Next few days it sails on the sea and finally returns back to Singapore on the last day. During our 4-nights cruise, we had sailed far away from Singapore, Malaysia, & Indonesia and for most parts there was no land in sight. The vast expanse of the endless ocean merging with the horizon and the sound of waves gently breaking against the hull of the ship will make you feel relaxed throughout the entire trip.

2. HOW MANY DAYS FOR CRUISE TO NOWHERE

This is entirely dependent on you. Currently Royal Caribbean Cruise to Nowhere in Singapore is having options of 2-3-4 nights cruises. Depending on your schedule as well as your mood, you can opt for either one of these options. The cruise to Nowhere has so many events that you will never feel bored even if you decide to go for the maximum 4 nights option.

Back in January when I had booked this cruise for March, only options available were 3-nights (starting on Mondays) and 4-nights (starting on Thursdays). Currently, Royal Caribbean has 2 nights options which is ideal for people who are seeking a cruise experience on a budget. Since our main purpose of the trip was to celebrate our wedding anniversary and go on a weekend trip to avoid extra leave days from work, we chose the 4-nights option.

3. WHERE TO GET THE BEST DEALS FOR CRUISE TO NOWHERE

I am not a cruise expert but while planning, the official site of Royal Caribbean was the best site for finding the best deals. They are currently running amazing promotions where kids sail free, 50% discount over regular rates to name a few. During our booking, we availed Chinese New Year sale promotions which was fabulous. Being flexible with dates will also help in saving a lot of money. So, to get the best deals, I will highly recommend to book from their official site.

4. ACCOMODATION OPTIONS IN ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE

There are 4 types of Staterooms (rooms in Cruise) one can choose during sailing.

• Interior Room ($$) – Big & comfortable rooms for family with wide array of amenities with no external view.
• Ocean View Room ($$) – An upgrade to Interior room with ocean view window.
• Balcony Room ($$$) – As the name suggests, you get amazing views of the ocean from the comforts of your room’s balcony.
• Suites Room ($$$$) – If you are in the mood to splurge, then suites is the ideal option for celebrating an occasion! There are two kinds of Suite available on board. Junior Suite (267 sq. ft. room with 81 sq. ft. balcony) and Grand Suite (543 sq. ft. room with 259 sq. ft. balcony). The Grand Suite is the most expensive splurge with a mezzanine level, a king sized bed, two bathrooms, a spacious living and dining area and a huge balcony. Some of the rooms even come with a private jacuzzi.

Depending on your budget and number of members traveling together, you have to decide on the staterooms. If your sole purpose is to experience cruise life on a budget, the interior room is your best option. While those who wish to splurge, balcony or suite rooms are ideal. Since this was my first “cruise vacation” celebrating our wedding anniversary, I was looking for a junior suite. Unfortunately, suite rooms were completely sold out for our preferred dates. So we settled for balcony room and to my surprise it was big & perfect for a couple! I am extremely happy with the balcony room as I got to enjoy the lullaby of endless waves crashing!

Cruise Tip: If you have missed booking the room of your choice due to unavailability, fret not, as you will get another chance to try your luck. Just a week before sailing, Royal Caribbean will email you with the option of bidding. Provide your best bid and you can end up securing one of your dream rooms at a much cheaper price!

5. ROOMS WITH BEST VIEWS FOR CRUISING

Once you decide on the kind of staterooms, you will need to decide the location of the stateroom . There are 3 options; Aft (back of the ship), mid-ship (center of the ship) & forward (front of the ship)! Next, you will need to decide on the floor of the deck! If you are prone to seasickness and want to be at the center of all attractions, mid-ship will be your preferred choice. Usually lower decks close to the dining places tend to be more expensive while upper decks are cheaper in general. If you opt for balcony rooms , any deck from 10th & above in mid-ship will be best for views of the ocean While 13th deck may seem close to most attractions of the cruise, it can also get busy and noisy!

Another great tip to decide your stateroom is looking at the options of rooms given on the cruise planner. If you look carefully, certain staterooms with specific symbol can accommodate more number of people. For example, a triangle can accommodate 3 people even though you are paying for 2 guests. This will ensure you are securing a bigger room. Make sure to avoid selecting the rooms which has obstructed views from the balcony if you are keen on that aspect. Finally the lower the numerical value against the stateroom, the better the room size will be. For instance, 1D option will be better than 2D in terms of size.

While booking for balcony rooms, you can either select your own room or let the system automatically select best available rooms. If you are totally unsure of your choices, then latter may seem the best fit! Since I had done my research and was keen on certain aspect of the room, I chose the room of my choice looking at the cruise map of the room as mentioned above.

Cruise Tip: Since the cruise will be sailing North of Singapore in the first few days, select your balcony room facing west i.e. left of the cruise. This will ensure amazing views of the ocean from the balcony while avoiding the harsh sun during the daytime. In addition, you will get to experience amazing sunset views as well as breakfast views from the comforts of your balcony.

PRE-BOARDING TIPS FOR CRUISE TO NOWHERE

Since this was my first cruise experience, I was completely unaware of the things to expect inside the cruise. But since this was an all-inclusive cruise vacation, we did not have to worry about detailed planning. However, few of the things mentioned below will come very handy for a hassle-free experience during your cruising.

1. COVID-19/PCR TESTING

As travel is slowly restarting, PCR tests is the new norm. On Royal Caribbean “Cruise to Nowhere”, the cost of swab tests for PCR is included in the cruise package. One will need to test negative to be eligible for boarding.

Once you have booked the cruise, approximately 10 days before sailing, you will receive email with instructions for scheduling PCR test. The swab tests are done at Raffles Convention Center at Raffles City Shopping Center. You will need to create an account on TrustOne web or download the TrustOne App where you can view the test results within 24 hours of testing. Generally the PCR test opens 3 days before sailing date. We took our tests 2 days before sailing and received the negative test result the next day.

The PCR test can be a bit uncomfortable but definitely bearable and quick. The entire process takes less than a minute. Staying calm and relaxed will ease the process. Previously, they did another test after disembarking. However, this has been discontinued.

2. THE APPS YOU WILL NEED FOR CRUISING

For pre-boarding and planning, these are the 3 apps that you will need:

• TustOne App – As mentioned before, you will need this app to schedule and view the PCR test result.
• TraceTogether – You can either carry your TraceTogether token or if you are like me, you can use this app for contact tracing. Every guest on board also receives a “Tracelet” (bracelet for tracing) which you are to wear at all times.
• Royal Caribbean App – The most used app before and during the cruise. With negative PCR-test result, one has to answer the health questionnaire before checking-in. This app has everything you need from checking-in to the day wise activity schedule as well as for monitoring any in-cruise expenditure. Once you link your booking, you will be able to start the check-in process and also select the boarding time.

Cruise Tip: Boarding time opens at 2 pm until 7pm at an interval of 30 mins to ensure safe distancing. Bear in mind, the sooner you get on board, the earlier you can connect to the ship’s wifi which will allow you to book the entertainment and dining options which tend to get filled up quickly. You can also start enjoying the cruise amenities immediately after boarding.

3. PLAN YOUR CRUISE EVENTS BEFORE SAILING

Royal Caribbean app will be the most useful app during your cruise for booking entertainments, shows, dining and other activities. However once you have logged onto the app with your given confirmation dates, the events don’t show up until the very day of the sailing. If you are a planner like me, this may frustrate you.

To overcome this issue, all you need to do is change the date of sailing closer to your sailing time. Keep in mind to select the dates that correspond to the same nights of cruise for better planning. For instance, if you are sailing on 1st- 5th April, then under your account, “select a different sailing” as shown in the photo. On next page select “Get more details on ships we support” and select “Quantum of the Seas” under Supported Ships. Among the several dates shown, select the one matching most close to your itinerary. I opted for the 25-29th March (4-nights cruise) to have a detailed views of the events, categorized by days and time with full details.

This tip will come in very handy if you want to plan or know things in advance. Trust me, you will save plenty of time on board if you have this valuable information before hand. This will help you to know the exact timing of the shows that you may want to book and plan your trip better.

Cruise Tip: You can book all the shows staged on the venues of Royal Theatre, Two70 and Music Hall only after boarding. The shows are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Therefore, the earlier you book your check in, the higher the chances of your getting the preferred time slots.

4. NO NEED FOR BEVERAGE AND DINING PACKAGES

Royal Caribbean cruise package involves complimentary dining for over 11 different restaurants on board. Barring a couple, the food is delicious and good in most restaurants that one can save money on food & drinks package. If you are keen to trying some of the speciality restaurants, that I highly recommend, paying separately will be the best option.

On boarding, you will receive 2 bottles of drinking water. For the remaining days, it’s best to carry your own water bottles and fill them during your meals at restaurants. Alternatively Café Promenade and Sorrentos serve water upon request. Alcohol is not complimentary in the package. Although one can opt for drinks package to have alcohol any time of the day, I did not see the need. The alcohol pricing and quality is similar to that of USA. So for every meal you can have a very good wine at ~10$ while the package is ~65$ per person/day.

Cruise Tip: During room service, which is complimentary, request glasses of water for free. Avoid bottled water as it will cost you additional money. Also, they stop serving alcohol after 10:30 pm on board just like in Singapore. It’s best to carry your own alcohol and every person can carry two bottles of alcohol which you can consume in room even after 10:30pm. If you carrying your own alcohol (highly recommended), carry them in your hand luggage as you will not be allowed to carry them in check-in luggage.

5. PREBOOK WIFI ON CRUISE PLANNER BEFORE DEPARTURE

If you wish to enjoy your favorite Netflix shows or stream music nonstop or share your live stories with the world, you will require good internet. While the cruise has public wifi, the speed is really slow for seamless streaming. It is best to purchase the wifi on the cruise planner few days before the departure. Few weeks before sailing, you will receive email promotions about VOOM Surf+ Stream packages. You can avail 10-20% discount on packages that range from 1 to 4 devices. We booked the package for 2 devices, one for each.

Cruise Tip: The cut-off time for online booking on cruise planner for internet, dining, beverages packages is 3-days before the sailing. Once you miss this time frame, you cannot avail the discounts. Also if you wish to save money on internet packages, you can book just for 1 device and click the “forget wifi network” and toggle between your devices under the same internet package.

THINGS TO DO ON QUANTUM OF THE SEAS

The number of activities and events that are available on this cruise is truly incredible. There are activities for all kind of travelers, be it adventure seekers or leisure travelers. The scale and extravaganza of everything will leave you in awe if you are cruising for the first time making you wonder how is it possible to have all these activities inside a huge moving vessel. You can choose to jam-pack your days with tons of activities or take it slow and easy. I have mentioned some of the activities that are worth trying and experiencing for an unforgettable experience.

1. THE NORTH STAR

For the most incredible views on the cruise, get on the North Star! Seeing the cruise and ocean 300 feet high above the sea level simply feels amazing.

This ride takes about 7 mins and you can have 360 views of the incredible expanse. Each ride takes in six people at a time, with allocated standing spots one metre apart. Book the ride through the app as soon as you embark using the Royal Caribbean App.

Cost: US$20 per person Tip: After the ride, while getting off the stairs, the views are amazing for clicking some photos.

2. ROCK CLIMBING

For all those who want an adrenaline rush, rock climbing on a cruise may seem exciting. Although avid climbers may find it underwhelming, it is a very different experience to climb on top with the views of ocean all around. A fun and safe experience to give it a try if you have never tried rock climbing before, especially for kids over 6 years.

3. THE SOLARIUM

There are 3 pools on the cruise but Solarium is the adults-only indoor pool (16+ years only)! With floors to ceilings glass windows, Solarium is located at the front of Royal Caribbean on the top deck. This place is perfect for couples and friends who want uninterrupted time soaking in the jacuzzis while gazing at the stunning ocean views.

The rules for these indoor pools are strict and you may have to wait in queue to get inside the pool due to safe distancing measures. There is also a bar and two jacuzzis at the front for magnificent views of the ocean. If you just want to chill, there are plenty deck chairs to lounge with drinks and views. Don’t forget to collect your pool towels before entering the Solarium!

Cost: Free Tip: Best time to soak in for views is around sunset. We saw some of the best sunsets from the Solarium. There are doors at the extreme end of the Solarium where you can go out to get a side view of the cruise and enjoy the evening breeze with a glass of wine.

4. DODGEM CARS

For all the thrill seekers out there, you can enjoy the fun of bumper cars on the cruise. It’s fun for both kids and adults to drive and bump into each other.

This is inside the SeaPlex, an indoor entertainment center on the 15th floor. It hosts many activities like dance class, crossbar challenge, basketball, foosball, table tennis and an arcade.

Cost: Free Tip: Since there are limited spaces, it is best to book the activities at the opening time at 9AM.

5. WATCH EVERY SUNSETS & SUNRISES

Never before this cruise, I had known how blissful it is to watch the sunrises and sunsets onboard the cruise. If your room is facing the East, don’t miss the sunrises! While we watched few sunsets from our west-facing room, our favorite was to watch rising or setting sun from the top deck or from the Solarium. The 360 degree uninhibited views of the ocean will ensure you will enjoy the surreal moments without fail.

Cost: Free Tip: If you are lucky enough, you may even spot few dolphins!

6. RIPCORD BY iFLY

If you have always fancied to sky-dive but never mustered the courage yet, this is your chance! Ripcord by iFLY helps you to experience the indoor version of sky-diving providing all the thrill and excitement of free-falling.

Since I have already ski-dived before, I passed on this activity. But, definitely one of the coolest experiences on board that you may want to try out (kids over 3 can also experience this).

Cost: US$40 (Free for suite guests)

7. BOOGIE BOARDING / SURFING

Another amazing experience to try is surfing on the 12-meter simulator of waves! If you have always wished to surf but never had the opportunity, this FlowRider surf simulator is ideal activity. With 100,000 liters of gushing water, surf like a pro or balance to stay upright on the board! This activity is sure to pump-up all the adrenaline junkies.

This activity is open for 7 hours from 9:30AM-5PM and entrance is subject to capacity. The first and last half an hour is set aside for advanced surfers. I couldn’t get a chance to surf as the queue for this activity was long as it is a popular activity.

Cost: Free for group sessions, US$69 and above for private sessions. Tip: To secure a free spot, queue for this activity before they open in the morning.

8. LIVE PERFORMANCES / SHOWS

The array of entertainment shows and live performances in this cruise is simply spectacular. The theatrical performances will make you wonder if you are watching on land or on a cruise. Been deprived of live performances for more than a year, watching every show on the cruise was a special delight. With cutting-edge high-tech acoustics and revolving, multi-functional stage shows, you will feel like watching shows in Las Vegas! Definitely book the shows first thing on board through the app and recommend watching them all.

Cost: Free Tip: Since seating is on first-come bases, arrive 15-20 mins before show to secure best seats!

The BeatleManiacs

If you are a fan of Beatles then this event is for you. Although I am not a big fan of Beatles, I loved watching this first live performance after more than a year. Some of the classics will make you swoon and singalong.

Sequins & Feathers

With extravagant costumes, sets and choreography, these performers will take your breath away. This particular performance made me feel I was watching one of the Las Vegas shows live on the cruise. Everything was so dazzling and amazing that you will be thoroughly entertained.

Starwater Show

This was my second favorite live performances because of the amazing songs and spectacular performances. The talented artists and every-changing stage will keep you enthralled throughout. A spell-binding visual treat, “Starwater explores the nature of human emotion through a fusion of live performance artistry and groundbreaking technology”. Definitely a must watch performance!

Gold Art Duo

The winner of Ukraine & America’s Got Talent, this duo will make you believe in the impossible. With body as flexible as a ribbon, they flawlessly creates a spellbinding performance of magic, comedy, aerial and complicated acrobatic. If you have time for watching only one performance, then this is your MUST-WATCH!

9. MUSIC & DANCE

Apart from the above four live performances, the Royal Caribbean’s Cruise to Nowhere has several other musicals and dance shows that will keep your days busy and making the late nights excited. Honestly there were far too many options than that we could attend. One of the musical shows that we enjoyed a lot is Piano Bar Entertainment by Paul O’Shea late nights at Schooner Bar. Another one was Live Jazz with Orchestra at Boleros. The relaxing atmosphere with good music was perfect to wind down the busy eventful days.

10. RUNNING TRACK ON TOP DECK

Although there is a fully functional gym on cruise, the joy of running on the jogging track of Quantum of Seas is unparalleled. If you are a fitness freak, you will absolutely love running on the amazing track on deck 15 either during sunrise or later in the evening.

The cold breeze sweeping you while running and the views of the vast endless ocean all around makes running a lot more fun. It’s also a perfect way to keep a check on the unlimited calories from all the gourmet food on cruise.

As soon as you’re out in international water, you can hit the casino. This is a pretty decent sized casino and entrance is based on the capacity. With cards being shuffled, stacked chips and poker machines paying out, this casino has all the feels of Las Vegas. There’s everything from the slots to blackjack, roulette to poker, all at a manageable minimum bet.

12. SHOPPING & SPA

Finally if you are in the mood to get pampered, then visit the onboard Vitality Spa. One of the largest spas at sea, you can avail medispa services to a full-service spa and beauty salon. I pampered myself with a manicure & pedicure and thoroughly enjoyed the experience overlooking the ocean views.

Also for all the shopaholics, Cruise to Nowhere has an array of international brands that will provide amazing retail therapy. Brands like Tiffany, BVLGARI, Coach, Michael Kors, Salvatore Ferragamo etc have retail stores as well as events that keep the shoppers engaged.

FOOD & DRINK OPTIONS ON QUANTUM OF THE SEAS

Complimentary dining.

Royal Caribbean’s Cruise to Nowhere is an all inclusive package with a wide array of food options. The complimentary food options are plenty with variety of cuisines like Indian, Italian, Asian, Chinese, Mexican, Japanese. There are many food options available for vegetarians as well as gluten-free.

We opted to have our most meals in Main Dining Room & My Time Dining Room . These served continental breakfast, and changing menu for lunch and dinner with amazing views of the ocean. Sorrento’s Pizza was perfect place for quick bites pizza while Solarium Bistro was ideal for munching some snacks in the late afternoon. You can reserve most of these places on the Royal Caribbean app or walk-in to get your seat.

Windjammer is an all-you-can-eat buffet hall with a wide array of cuisines. It’s open during every meal times (breakfast, lunch and dinner). This particular restaurant was a hit-or-miss one for the food options for me but all the desserts that I tried was simply fabulous.

One thing you shouldn’t miss while cruising is having the complimentary Room Service . We opted to have Breakfast from our balcony overlooking the ocean and it was such a treat. If your room is facing the West, it’s best to have breakfast in the balcony as the harsh rays of the sun wont disturb you.

SPECIALITY DINING

Apart from all the complimentary restaurants, the cruise offers many speciality dining options. We treated ourselves with lunch at Jamie’s Italian and it was just amazing. The gourmet Italian lunch experience with wine was worth the extra splurge of US$30 per person, where we got to choose one dish from every category! It was so much food that we stuffed ourselves & spend the afternoon napping after the sumptuous meal.

Since we love sushi, we had our last dinner at Izumi Sushi and it was the perfect end to the cruising vacation. The wonderful maki rolls & sashimi paired with sake was a wonderful change to our palette. The food was amazing and the service was top notch to make this whole dining experience wonderful.

Although we had heard great reviews about Wonderland , we were not able to secure any reservation to this restaurant. With limited capacity and open only for dinner, this restaurant is hard to book onboard. If you are keen to dine in this creative themed restaurant, I would strongly advise to call (+65 6305 0033) and make reservation the moment you have booked your cruise.

There are many bars and lounges on the cruise that are ideal to get your favorite cocktails and drinks. Almost every main decks have bars with good options for drinks. I loved the  Sky Bar  by the pool and  Sunshine  in the adults only Solarium. If you are up for something fancy, don’t miss out the chance to get your drinks made by the robots at Bionic Bar . It’s just a wonderful experience to watch the robotic arms work in perfect synchronization and mixing the ingredients to get you the perfect cocktail!

FINAL DAY OF CRUISE TO NOWHERE

The day before disembarkation, each room will receive a luggage tag with a number on it! Based on the number on the tag, each room will have an allotted time for disembarkation. On the final day, the cruise arrives at the port at 6:30am and disembarkation begins as early as 7am until 10am to ensure safe distancing measures. Our luggage tag was 33 and hence we stayed on the ship till 9:30am.

Since we had a late departure, we were able to enjoy the breakfast at the cruise along with some time photographing the Singapore skyline from the top deck. There’s no fixed pattern how the numbers were allocated but we were glad to receive a late slot and enjoy some more time on the cruise.

Few weeks ago, after disembarking, every guests had to undergo an antigen testing. However, this test is no longer needed as more and more residents of Singapore are getting vaccinated.

IS A CRUISE TO NOWHERE WORTH IT?

Hell YEAH!! ABSOLUTELY YES!!

Let’s be real… after 14 months of being stuck in Singapore, this was the closest semblance to vacation that I could have. Sailing far away from the lands and seeing the vast ocean with sounds of waves crashing against the ship helped me disconnect from the real world and feel completely relaxed.

Not once throughout the cruise I was worried about the pandemic as Singapore government and cruise management have demonstrated exemplary measures to ensure safety and public health. We had to do gazillion times temperature screenings and contact tracing but it was worth every bit for this wonderful holiday. The stress free enjoyment and relaxation that was possible on this “Cruise to Nowhere” was beyond words. The joy of watching live performances, movies on board, listening to musicals and get to eat amazing food and unwind at pools were far worth the fact of not having a destination.

Although I have never been on a cruise before, this sailing gave me the best experience of a cruising life minus the hop-off-destinations. I am glad I was introduced to cruise life in this manner as I got to explore and experience everything that was offered on board and I truly loved it. This was definitely once in a lifetime experience and Royal Caribbean’s Cruise to Nowhere is the only vacation we can have before the international borders open!

Planning to go on a cruise to nowhere? Comment any questions you have below & I will be happy to clarify!

I hope this detailed guide to Cruise to Nowhere in Singapore has inspired you!

For further reading on other Singapore inspirations, discover : 🏨 The Hotel with the Best View in Singapore – The Ritz Carlton Millenia 🌳 Best Photo Spots in Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

PIN FOR LATER!

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26 comments.

I can see it. I love the days at sea, although really for me, I love the ports too. Great review, gives a real feel for what it is like.

So true! I love ports and those charming towns as well. Miss traveling to such places so much.

I have never done a cruise before, but now I feel like I have after this great post. I honestly never heard of a “cruise to nowhere,” but I can see how this was almost therapeutic, given the current situation in the world.

Thanks so much Shelley! I had never ever imagined before I would end up going for such a “vacation” but so glad this happened as this is the only “travel feel” we can avail given the current situations.

I’ll be honest in that I am not a cruise person at all. However, I would love the North Star view and the Many gorgeous sunrises and sunsets from the deck. The concept of a cruise to nowhere is interesting and certainly makes sense during these pandemic times.

I feel you Ildiko.. I was just like you too but past one year with no traveling, I had only this as an option & thoroughly enjoyed this little getaway.

Wow! I am impressed with this cruise. I honestly have never had a desire to go on a cruise, nor have I been on one, but after reading this article, you definitely have me wanting to book a Royal Caribbean cruise! That is so awesome they have the indoor skydiving and the pools look so beautiful. Great guide Sunetra! 🙂

Thank you so much Taylor. This cruise has changed my mindset and given the scenario, it was the best vacation I had in last 14 months!😅 Can’t wait to travel again once Singapore opens its borders.

I really enjoyed following your cruise adventure on Instagram and this is so nice to have everything break down in one post! Thank you Su! I would definitely like to do one one day *w*

Aww Thank you so much Marina and I hope this guide will help more people from Singapore to enjoy the only “vacation” we can have.

A cruise to nowhere sounds like such a bonkers idea! Like you, I’ve never really felt compelled to experience a cruise. However, the cruise to nowhere looks like such a relaxing escape! What a great way to relax and recharge while still feeling like you’re getting a vacation. The ship looks incredible! Maybe I’ll be tempted to try a cruise after all! Thanks for the great guide!

That’s so true Hannah!! Being traveled starved for more than a year, this escape was therapeutic and truly enjoyable!

This is such a fun concept! It’s a great idea to go on a cruise for a few days even though the international borders are not open!

Good to see that cruises ate happening, even if they are just at sea.

I’ve never actually been on a cruise before. Maybe a cruise to nowhere is a good way to experience the atmosphere on the boat and stop me from being worried that I’d get bored or feel claustrophobic on one. It looks amazing!

So true. This was the best way I could ever experience a cruise life 🙂

I didn’t even know this existed, how neat!!

What a cool experience! The views from the North Star look spectacular. Singapore is definitely on my travel list, post pandemic and I would love to do this! Thank you for the recommendations!

Your photos are always SO SO beautiful – and this looks utterly amazing, I never knew there was so much to do onboard a cruise ship!

Thank you so much Shafinah! Even I was pleasantly surprised and hence loved the experience so much.

This sounds like so much fun! I’ve only been on a cruise once and it was so much fun. I do like this ‘cruising nowhere’ I’ll definitely check it out.

This was my first and I enjoyed it so much! I’m also very glad there was no “destination” involved and hence could enjoy the cruise amenities and entertainment so well.

Great that you were able to go here during these times! Thanks for sharing your experience!

It’s my pleasure. I am indeed glad this opportunity came by for the residents of Singapore as the international borders continue to be closed for leisure travel.

Sounds like so much fun! I still haven’t cruised yet!

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Cruise to Nowhere: A first-timer’s booking guide

First time cruising? Here's all you need to know about booking a cruise to nowhere- room types, locations, travel insurance and more.

Back in October 2020, the STB gave Genting Cruises and Royal Caribbean the green light to sell cruises to nowhere. 

These sailings (only open to Singapore residents) take place under strict safety protocols, with mandatory COVID-19 testing and 50% capacity caps. It’ll take the cruise industry a long time to exorcise the memories of Diamond Princess, but barring that infamous false alarm in December, the cruises to nowhere have been rather uneventful thus far. 

While I must have flown more than half a million nautical miles in my lifetime, I’ve yet to clock any on water. It’s not that I dislike sailing; I just never found a rewards program that lets me do it for free. But with air travel suspended indefinitely, a cruise may be the only cure for cabin fever (yes, I have a lot of sea jokes- have you seen the pirate movie? It was rated arrrrr). 

And so I booked a Royal Caribbean cruise for the end of January, reasoning that capacity restrictions and enforced social distancing made this the best opportunity for a crowd-hating misanthrope like me. 

Although I know my way around airlines and frequent flyer programs, cruising is a whole new ball game. Seasoned hands may scoff at this, but as a first-timer, I’ve found the booking and planning process to be less than intuitive. Believe me, there’s a lot of terms, procedures, and packages to get familiar with, and they don’t make it easy for newbies. 

So if you’re a cruise noob like me, I hope you’ll find the following series of guides and reports useful. 

Let’s start at the beginning: what do you need to know about booking a cruise?

What stateroom should I book?

After you’ve chosen your dates, the first order of business is to select a stateroom (this is the collective term used for rooms and suites). On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas, staterooms are divided into the following categories:

Which stateroom to book is a question of budget and preferences.

Interior Rooms are the cheapest, but as the name suggests, lack a view of any kind (although on Quantum they’re equipped with virtual balconies , so that might be an interesting experience too). 

They’re best for those who intend to spend most of their time outside enjoying the various activities onboard, or for those who are really particular about sleep quality (since there’s no window, your stateroom can be completely black at night). They obviously aren’t a good choice for those with claustrophobia, or on longer voyages. 

Ocean View Rooms give you a (non-opening) window to look out of. This is great for those who need natural light, but don’t want to pay the premium for a balcony. 

Balcony Rooms are the next step up, and provide guests with a private space for fresh air and ocean breeze. I’d wager a Balcony Room would be more important on a scenic cruise, so don’t feel too bad if you can’t get one on the cruise to nowhere- there isn’t much to see. 

In case you’re worried that your balcony’s view will be obstructed by a lifeboat or some other piece of equipment, Royal Caribbean explicitly labels such rooms on the booking page. They’ll appear as a separate category, with a commensurate reduction in price. 

Finally, we have suites, which Royal Caribbean further subdivides into three categories:

Suites are much more than just larger rooms; passengers also receive additional benefits as follows:

Given the way benefits are assigned, I don’t see much point in booking a Junior Suite unless you really want the extra space. Junior Suites are “suites lite”, and don’t get:

• Lounge access (with free alcohol in the evenings)
• Concierge service (which I’m told is important for securing reservations)
• Free Wi-Fi (all other suites get access for two devices)
• Access to Coastal Kitchen except at dinner (the special restaurant reserved for suites passengers)

Since it’s my first time cruising, I figured I might as well get the full fat experience. So I booked a Grand Suite, which cost S$2,257 nett for a four-night cruise. Royal Caribbean tells me that I’ve snagged a fantastic, limited time 50% off deal, but I’d take this with a pinch of salt. I still see the offer available on the website, with a countdown timer that gets suspiciously reset each time it expires. 

A final point about pricing: I don’t find Royal Caribbean’s way of displaying prices to be very transparent, because they wait till the very last step to add on the mandatory gratuities. 

These cost US$14.50 per person per night for guests in Junior Suites and below, and US$17.50 per person per night for guests in Grand Suites and above, so be sure to factor that into your costs too. 

Should I bid for a RoyalUp upgrade?

If you find the price of your desired stateroom too steep, you can always book a lower category and try for an upgrade through the RoyalUp program. Emails about RoyalUp go out roughly 2.5 months before departure, but you can always visit this webpage at any point to check your eligibility. 

The interface will be familiar to those of you who have bid for airline upgrades before (it’s run by Plusgrade, which Singapore Airlines also uses ). You drag a slider bar to adjust your bid, and the system tells you the strength of your offer (it’s obviously calibrated to nudge your bids higher).

All bids are priced on a “per guest” basis, based on two guests per stateroom for the entire length of the cruise. In other words, even if you have three or four people in the room, the amount you pay will be based on two guests. 

Minimum bids apply. For my particular cruise, the minimum bids to upgrade from a Grand Suite were:

If you’re looking to make the jump to a Star category suite, do remember that this category receives complimentary gratuities, specialty dining and deluxe beverage packages. Assuming you were going to buy a dining and beverage package (we’ll talk about that more in the next post), the minimum bid you should place for a Star suite is:

Gratuities + Specialty dining package + Deluxe beverage package + Whatever amount you’d otherwise pay for a bigger room

Some illustrative pricing from my four-night cruise (yours may be different):

• Gratuities: S$95 per person
• Specialty dining package: S$135 per person
• Deluxe beverage package: S$55 per person*

*Based on sales price. Royal Caribbean holds frequent package sales, which I’ll cover in the next post

After you place your bid, you wait. RoyalUp bids may be accepted anytime up to 48 hours prior to departure , and once the bid is accepted, it cannot be cancelled (you can go back and cancel/modify it as many times as you want prior to acceptance, however). 

A few things to think about. 

First, just because the system lets you place a bid for a particular stateroom doesn’t mean there’s availability. RoyalUp is a way for the company to hedge against last minute cancellations, so if everything goes as planned, that stateroom may never become available. 

Second, there are situations where an upgrade may not be an upgrade, if you know what I mean. That’s because you have no control over the new stateroom’s location- your ocean view room may be upgraded to a balcony room, but it may be near the elevators (noisy), or on a higher level in the forward area (more movement and worse for those prone to seasickness), or have an obstructed view. 

Third, your check-in timing may change. You could have snagged the earliest available 2 p.m check-in slot (the earlier you board the better, because certain restaurants, entertainment and activities can only be reserved onboard), but your upgrade may cause you to be bumped to a later timing. 

What location should I choose?

Once you’ve selected your stateroom, you’ll be prompted to make three further choices:

• Aft, Mid-ship or Forward
• Specific stateroom

Here’s the general rule: if you’re prone to sea sickness, pick the lowest level in the mid-ship area. It’s all about physics- the most stable part of the ship will be found here. While modern ships are remarkably stable, movement is more noticeable towards the forward areas and on higher decks. Being mid-ship also means you’re at the centre of everything, and don’t have to walk too far from your room to get to the pool or dining areas. 

If you’re a light sleeper, you may prefer to be way from the pool deck and entertainment areas. Look for a cabin that is both above and below other cabins (use the deck plan to find this), because the last thing you want is to be one floor above the theatre. Avoid rooms near elevators and service areas. And while the drone of the engine may provide soothing white noise for sleep, rooms located low and to the aft may get unwanted vibrations or noise when the anchor drops. 

If you value a view, then an aft stateroom will give you great views when pulling away from the port. They also tend to have larger balconies (I’m not sure if this applies to Quantum of the Seas specifically though).

The forward area is for those without who love the view on the way into port (keep in mind, the ship returns to Singapore in the wee hours of the morning), and don’t mind a bit more turbulence throughout. If you’re on a lower deck in the forward area, you may have to deal with the sound of water smacking against the front of the ship, and potential noise from bow thrusters. 

For what it’s worth, I don’t think it matters whether you’re on the port or starboard side of the ship (and before anyone asks, posh does not come from “ p ort o ut, s tarboard h ome”- that’s a debunked urban legend ).  It especially doesn’t matter on these cruises to nowhere. With all due respect to the Straits of Malacca, it’s not something I’d pay to see. 

Ultimately, the “best” cabin is a highly subjective thing. It really depends what you’re looking for: privacy vs access, great views vs stability, cost vs features.

What about travel insurance?

When cruises to nowhere were announced back in October, Royal Caribbean announced that it would offer up to  S$25,000 of medical coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses on these sailings. 

More details were supposed to be found here , but I can’t find any reference to the S$25,000 coverage anymore. Instead, it simply says:

This means you’ll be on the hook for any medical expenses incurred off the ship, so protect yourself accordingly. 

Does travel insurance cover cruises, much less cruises to nowhere? I sent this question to as many underwriters as I could, and here’s a summary from those which replied:

The good news is that the vast majority of travel insurance policies cover cruises to nowhere.

While only some of them (Sompo, NTUC Income) provide coverage for COVID-19, it’s less important in this case than if you were going overseas. Think about it: should you somehow test positive while on board, the ship will turn around and head back to Singapore immediately. 

Once you’re back in Singapore, your usual medical insurance will kick in, and in line with the MOH’s revised guidance in October 2020, government subsidies and insurance coverage will be applicable. 

In other words:

• Cost of medical treatment onboard= Covered by Royal Caribbean
• Cost of medical treatment while in Singapore= Covered by your own medical insurance

Travel insurance in this case is primarily needed for things like lost luggage (insofar as luggage can be lost on a cruise to nowhere), lost travel documents (maybe a seagull steals them), or if you fracture something or sustain some non-COVID malady while onboard. It will also cover scenarios where you can’t cruise because you fall sick (e.g food poisoning), or if there’s a bereavement in the family. 

What card should I use to book cruises?

Royal Caribbean cruise bookings are processed in SGD and code as MCC 4411 Cruise Lines , so you can use the following cards to earn the most miles on your booking:

If you use the DBS Woman’s World Card, do monitor your points balance as you may need to appeal for the bonus 9X points to be manually credited. If you hold an AMEX Platinum Charge card, you can use the S$400 lodging credit to offset the cost of the cruise, provided you book it through the American Express Travel Concierge. 

Once you’re onboard the ship, all charges are in USD, so you’ll want to use a card that gives you bonuses on foreign currency spending .

So there you go! Those are some of the things I learned while booking, and hopefully it helps you along the way too. 

Of course, booking is only the first step. There’s a whole lot of planning still to come, such as food, drinks and internet packages, and how to go about making reservations. I’ll touch on this in the next post. 

Once again, I’m hardly the expert on cruising. If you’ve done this before and have tips for newbies, do share them below- anything else first-timers should know when booking?

• royal caribbean
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Review: royal caribbean royal genie experience, review: royal caribbean spectrum of the seas grand loft suite, 30 comments.

Am onboard now in Grand Suites and its really nice. WIFI is fast enough for Netflix. For booking, theres a price match so good to check prices periodically and contact RC if the prices drop for the difference to be converted to onboard credits or to upgrade if the spread to the desired class narrows.

Nice! Thanks for sharing. Is it a mad rush to book stuff once on-board?

When you arrive on board, they will release the shows at 6pm for bookings. It is all sold out in minutes due to capacity management.

Also, for the unlimited dining package, it is better to book all the restaurants on the first day as some fill up very quick (chops grill and wonderland mostly)

All people are very nice and you should spend a nice holiday ! We are thinking to do it again 🙂 enjoy !

yup, my plan is to spend the first few hours booking things for the whole cruise. for show bookings, is it necessary to physically go down to the venue to book? or can you book via phone/concierge/app?

You can do all via the apps. Just be sure you well do it at the correct timing. If you are in a suite, you can get the help from the concierge and they will make sure you can have the shows and timing you really want. Also suite ppl get special timing for flow riders, climbing and bumping cars

With GS, the concierge will reach out a week before for reservations. You should book Coastal Kitchen lunch and dinner slots (taking into account your evening program 8 or 10pm shows). With Coastal Kitchen, for breakfast and lunch, you can pick stuff up from Windjammer buffet or order off the menu in an exclusive setting.

A day before, the show timings will be sent and you can make reservations. For the rest (bumper cars etc) you’ll need to board (2pm!), Complete the safety procedures and then use the app.

got it. i’m doing a separate post on planning and this will come in useful. i think i’ll have to learn a lot of stuff along the way though!

Yeah i basically read every cruisecritic, tripadvisor, HWZ post i could find to prep. Have fun and looking forward to your upcoming posts!

A good tip for all is that you can reprice your cabin if it goes lower at any point of time. For this only need to call the hotline and they will do it super fast.

I didn’t know this! Thanks for sharing

one thing is to add on insurance, do check that pre-existing illness are covered. my friend grandpa had to be heli evac out due to heart attack but the insurer did not covered then.

” If you hold an  AMEX Platinum Charge  card, you can use the S$400 lodging credit to offset the cost of the cruise, provided you book it through the American Express Travel Concierge. “ Does this apply for both cruises ?

btw Cruise to nowhere for Sompo is under Area A, not C

From Sompo customer service:

Thank you for your keen interest with Sompo Travel Insurance.

Our Travel Insurance does cover for cruise.

Please select Country/Area Code as Area C (worldwide) during the online quote/application.

Will you be enjoying alone? Or with the lioness?

of course with the Milelioness. someone has to do the hunting.

Book with HSBC card via email/phone and get additional 5% discount! The 5% discount is not applicable for online booking.

Hi Adrian your net cost of S$2,257 is it for 2 person ? I think Royal Caribbean has increased the price for Grand Suite by quite a bit, it cost around S$3.8k now for a four-night cruise for 2 person

2,257 was for 2 people. yes, prices have increased quite a bit already.

Thanks Aaron for the data point

Hello Aaron! Thanks for this post! it was very helpful. May I ask if there are any safety protocols post cruise? i.e. are we free to leave once we disembark? or will we be subject to any quarantine/SHN notices?

when i sailed there was a post cruise ART test at the terminal before you leave. very fast, 5 mins only. but i hear from recent reports that they’ve done away with that.

so you basically go home.

Your guides on the cruises have been very helpful. For purposes of booking transport from the cruise terminal home, approximately what time should we expect to disembark, and in your experience, how flexible is that timing?

S$2257 is really a good price for 4 Nights. When I booked it costed S$2800+ for 3 Nights.

For Jan 2022 I’ve booked 4n at 1700!

Which cabin did you book? Grand Suite again? Are you writing another review?

$1,655 for 4n grand suite.

This is for the entire room and not per pax right ? I am trying to book now for 2 pax, and its $5,672 for 2 pax, 4 niite cruise…price almost double I guess

Thanks for this comprehensive guide ! Qn: How about Chef’s table on qots, any reviews…and is it true there is always discount if purchase on board ? Cheers.

 Assuming you were going to buy a dining and beverage package (we’ll talk about that more in the next post),

*where is the next post?*

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The ultimate comparison guide for Singapore’s Cruises To Nowhere

That travel itch isn’t going away anytime soon, and staycations , being literally just Netflix n’ Chill + atas amenities, barely helps to make it better. So, the idea of splurging on a cruise has probably crossed your mind. 

For now, the only companies offering Cruises To Nowhere are Royal Caribbean International and Genting Cruise Lines’ Dream Cruise . But with so many factors to consider, the thought of them may be enough to off-put you from your plans.

To make things easier, we’ve done the homework for you. From prices, room amenities to even activities onboard, we’ve broken down the details into bite-sized pieces for you. 

Price of Cruises to Nowhere

For comparison purposes, we’ll use the lowest rate offered for June. However, take note that Royal Caribbean is offering 50% off cruise fares when you make your booking from now till 3 May 2021 . Kids who are under 12 years old will get to cruise for free.

The table below shows the price per person, non-inclusive of taxes, fees and port expenses. 

*Prices reflected for Royal Caribbean’s rooms are after discount.

Accommodation for Cruises to Nowhere

Finally travelling “out of the country” will be an exhilarating experience, but it fits no purpose if you’re stuck in an uncomfortable room. Here are what the rooms look like, so you’ll be able to find accommodation suited for you.

Quantum of the Seas

Interior stateroom.

For those who are leaning towards Royal Caribbean, you’ll be siked to know that you’ll be travelling on board their newest ship, the Quantum of the Seas .

Even if the basic Interior Stateroom is all you can afford, you’ll be glad to know that they come with a “Virtual Balcony” —  a high-definition 80-inch screen that’s connected to a live camera outside the ship, so you can enjoy the same sights and sounds like someone with a Balcony or Ocean View room.

There’s also an ensuite bathroom and a one-seater sofa. We reckon that this room is perfect for those who’ll be spending most of their time outside .

You’ll get to see the actual sea in the Ocean View Room. Besides getting an unobstructed view of the ocean, you’ll also have an extra sofa to laze on. The room also comes with an ensuite bathroom, toiletries and an in-built wardrobe.

Waking up to the smell of sea breeze with the wind gently caressing your face may be the stuff of dreams, but if you decide on the Balcony Room , it might just become reality.

The room features a private deck complete with a cinematic view of the ocean, and there’s a table and chairs to relax and enjoy a cuppa joe. In addition to the extra space, there’s a sofa which serves as an additional spot for snacking or playing games .

It’s go big or go home for some of us, and perhaps the Suite will be worth going big for. This luxurious two-storey room comes equipped with a living room, dining area and spacious bathroom, so you won’t have a chance to miss home. There’s also a recliner chair for those who want to bathe in the sun. 

On the second level, there’s a loft enclosed with privacy curtains. A vanity table is also provided so that you can be picture perfect for the ‘gram .

World Dream

Dream Cruise’s accommodation selection may be limited, but their rooms don’t fall short. The Balcony Room holds a private deck, along with lounge chairs for you to chill out and soak in the views. 

The place also comes with a queen-sized bed, sofa bed and an ensuite bathroom, so there’s ample space for everyone. 

Palace Suite

This space is titled the Palace Suite and it is truly fit for a king. Over here, the bed is cleverly positioned for you to enjoy the view of the sky, sea and horizon. Coupled with Italian luxury lines and downy duvets, you’ll definitely have a good night’s sleep. 

In the bathroom, you’ll find luxury bathrobes and slippers, along with premium towels and toiletries. To complete the package, there’s a personalised mini-bar with a Nespresso coffee machine and a complimentary red or white wine of your choice.

P.S, a 24-hour butler service is also available.

Activities onboard Singapore Cruises To Nowhere

The North Star is part amusement park ride, part viewing platform — think Singapore Flyer. This mechanical arm will elevate you high above the ship for an unrivalled 360-degree view, 90 metres above sea level. Currently, the Noth Star holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.

Bumper cars

No matter your age, bumper cars will always unleash the kid in you . Besides this adrenaline-pumping activity, there are other family-friendly options such as ice-skating, rollerskating , laser tag, rock-climbing and even bungee jumping.

Skydiving simulator

Skydiving may be on some of our bucket lists, but if that dream seems too far-fetched, you can always try your hand at iFly, the skydiving simulator on board the Royal Caribbean. With no ground beneath your feet, you can float weightlessly in the air and experience freefalling. 

This one’s for the alcoholics. Though there are other places to get yourself a drink, it’s a once in a lifetime experience to head to the Bionic Bar and be served by actual robots. Simply type your order into the tablet and watch the robotic arms mix your libation of choice. 

16 entertainment decks

It’ll be an irony if we’re on the waters but never in the waters. On Quantum of the Seas, there are 16 entertainment decks , including a top deck featuring a solarium for adults, an outdoor pool, a new indoor pool with a roof system and an H2O Zone kids’ aqua park. There’s also a surf simulator, a rock-climbing wall measuring 40ft above the deck, a spa, a casino, and an outdoor movie screen.

Waterslide Park

For daredevils, you’ll have a whirl of a time at the Waterslide Park . The slides feature heart-racing steep inclines that will put bravehearts to the test, but if you’re more of a fraidy-cat, there are easy-going chutes as well.

Cosmic bowling

We still can’t go to clubs, but with Genting Dream’s Cosmic Bowling alley, you’ll be surrounded by pulsating glow pins, neon balls and ultraviolet lights. Amped up music will play classic favourites, so you’ll also get to groove to the beat.

Rock-climbing wall

There are gyms available on deck, but for some real action, challenge your family and friends at this energy-burning rock-climbing wall . This attraction scales 24ft, so once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with views for dayyyys .

Golfing is usually associated with a rich man’s sport, so what better way to live the high life than putting your way through a nine-hole course, while on a cruise? Not to worry even if you’ve never golfed before, the course is beginner-friendly, so you’ll have a ball of a time.

Arcades were a great time for the people born in the 90’s. The Dance Dance Revolution and Para Para machines were always the crowd’s favourite. Over here, you’ll get to battle your friends and family and finally decide on who’s the best dancer of all.

Dining for Cruises to Nowhere

Some of us live for food and may be apprehensive of the available food options. After all, you’re to live in a confined space for days. But on Quantum of the Seas, you’ll have 17 dining options to choose from, so you’ll be spoilt or choice.

The ones to note are Cafe Promenade , a 24-hour establishment that’ll satisfy your late-night cravings , Dog House , where you can pile your hotdog with your favourite toppings and Sorrento’s , an authentic New York-style pizzeria experience with traditional pizzas.

Onboard the World Dream, there are three all-inclusive restaurants, one 24-hour snack bar and 15 other cafes and restaurants. Incessantly looking at the ocean waves may have gotten you thinking about HaiDiLao’s boiling soup, so when you find yourself craving for hotpot when onboard the Cruises to Nowhere, you can visit Hot Pot, a buffet situated on the outdoor deck.

Included in the cruise fare are meals at the Genting and Dream dining rooms, The Lido buffet and the World Grill, with the remaining being additional charge venues. 

Cruises to Nowhere comparison guide

To wrap up this article, we’ve included a table of what is included in the cruise fare. That way, you’ll be able to do a fair comparison of what floats your boat better.

If reading this has convinced you enough to book a trip, you can start here: Royal Caribbean International | Genting Cruise Lines’ Dream Cruise

For more articles like this, subscribe to our Telegram channel at @confirmgood .

Natalie Lim

I leave the office at 6PM on the . to rush home and play games. My boss has no control over me!!

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