Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship released in 2016, focusing on multiple destinations around the world. Instead of the sunny Caribbean, it sails primarily to Alaska, with itineraries also including Asia and Mexico. This ship is great for guests departing from Los Angeles, as well as those leaving from Vancouver or Seward who want to explore various itineraries in the Last Frontier. Ever wondered how skydiving in Alaska compares to Singapore? This is one of the few chances in the world to try it.

What we like about Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas is a ship with tons of itineraries and it might rank among the Royal Caribbean ships with the highest number of sailings in a year. This ship alone has over 200 sailings if you explore all its itineraries, which is kind of crazy, but relax because there is an explanation for that. 

Ovation of the Seas focuses heavily on one-way sailings, especially between Vancouver and Alaska. Of the approximately 210 itineraries available, around 190 are focused on Alaska, which is impressive, and every sailing is at least six nights long. These are not just trips that take you from one place to another, they explore numerous cities like Skagway, Juneau, and Icy Strait Point. Many itineraries also include land tours to Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks. These are excellent cruise options if you want to travel from Vancouver to Alaska, see what this beautiful region has to offer, disembark, and then spend a few extra days exploring on your own.

As a Quantum-class ship, there is a lot to try and do onboard, with a great mix of activities that are fun for both adults and children. Keep in mind that, as a Quantum-class ship, there is no proper waterpark or large slide onboard, but there are still plenty of fun options to explore. Quantum-class ships focus on unusual and exciting experiences rather than typical mega-resort features. You can enjoy the North Star observation deck that takes you 300 feet above sea level, which is perfect for Alaska itineraries, FlowRiders, the SeaPlex sports complex, a rock climbing wall, a small waterpark for children, an indoor skydiving simulator, bumper cars, and even archery lessons. Yes, you can fire real bows and arrows onboard Ovation of the Seas, which sounds crazy when you stop to think about it. Oh, there is also a nice indoor pool, which is great considering that most itineraries are all about Alaska.

Keep in mind that Ovation of the Seas is set to receive a major update in 2026, which will add new amenities such as the Pesky Parrot bar, the restaurants Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Izumi Teppanyaki, a reimagined pool deck with cabanas, a new Starbucks, and a new indoor venue for dancing. You can still sail on it now and have a great time, but if you prefer, waiting a few months could mean experiencing an even better Ovation of the Seas.

What we don’t like about Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas is a rather standard Quantum-class ship, with plenty of fun activities, and the dining options are likely to improve over time. One area that falls short is the night entertainment, especially the shows onboard. There are no Broadway productions, as those are usually found on the Oasis and Icon classes, and most of the shows are original productions. There is nothing wrong with that, but the shows on Ovation of the Seas are a bit lackluster. You get a few cabaret performances, and the headliner, called “The Beautiful Dream,” features decent singing and props. Will this change with the upcoming 2026 amplification project? Possibly, but nothing has been announced so far.

Conclusion

Ovation of the Seas offers roundtrip cruises from Los Angeles and Singapore, but there is a good chance you will be sailing to Alaska if you are onboard. The ship has a lot to offer and you are sure to have a great time, but if you want to experience Ovation of the Seas in its ultimate form, wait a few more months and book a trip after the amplification project is finished. You will not only enjoy new dining options, bars, a reimagined pool deck, and casino, but there is also a good chance that the new shows will debut as well.