Four concepts we enjoyed on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas

In an effort to retain a loyal fan base and gain some new followers, cruise lines often try to innovate and renovate continuously. During our cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas two months ago, we noticed four notable changes that grabbed our attention.

Interactive Artwork

While every ship boasts millions of dollars of artwork, the Freedom of the Seas is unique in its exhibition of the hands-on art pieces on every floor. So, when your globetrotter gets bored, they can start climbing the stairs and not only view all the beautiful sculptures and paintings that line the hallways but play with some of the exhibits.

Autism travel tip: Parents should point out the artworks and encourage their kids to play with them since they combine education and function.

Expansion of the kids club

By expanding the kids club on board to accommodate the 18 to 20-year-old age group, Royal Caribbean now allows the more socially avoidant young adults to meet new people and occupy themselves for the duration of the cruise. The club holds various activities in the evenings, like Wii tournaments, informal mixers in night clubs like the Crypt and bars, flow rider surfing, Jacuzzi time, and karaoke. As a mother of two older teenagers, I can personally attest to the need for young adult-oriented events on board cruise ships and hope the concept will expand to other cruise lines as well. Autism travel tip: The concept can be useful for the high functioning autistic travelers that would like to interact with their peers but need that 'extra help' with introductions.

New Information boards

Interactive maps on every floor serve as navigation systems to help you transverse the ship with minimal effort. All you have to do is input where you want to go—whether room, shop, restaurant or even the nearest restroom—and it shows you not only where you are, but how to get to your intended destination. Additionally, it also functions as a paperless Cruise Compass, displaying the events happening that day on board. All in all, its interactivity and utility make it a very entertaining and engaging device, whether for you or your globetrotting companions. Autism travel tip: Our son with autism like other fellow cruisers found the boards helpful to retrieve information about the ship venues and different activities.

The Dreamworks Factor

The new collaboration enhances the already dynamic lineup of activities that Royal Caribbean offers to attract families and animation lovers. Their character breakfast rivals Disney's and the photo opportunities with characters in various parts of the ship are abundant. What we enjoyed the most was the Dream Parade that engaged the spectators from different angles, with colorful costumes and jaw-dropping choreography. Autism travel tip: The parade is the quintessential definition of fun, providing an incredible visual experience. Be advised it is on the noisy side so those with heightened sound sensitivity can either stay in Promenade cabins and see it from the comfort of their cabin or use much-needed ear plugs should they wish to attend.