Shanenz84

That  has been been there for some time now. Seems to suggest Australia will get a full time ship as it stays well past April when most ships leave the country.

Ok Here Is A Mini Update On The Short Cruises.
Indy Will Sail Out Of PC For Late 2021 and 2022 And Will Offer 3 And Four Night Cruises To Coco Cay.
And Mariner Will Offer A Set Of Four And Five Night Caribbean Cruises Out Of PC Starting In Late 2021.
 
Adventure Was Confirmed To Sail From Galveston Again In November 2021 After Her Refurbishment. 
And Brilliance Will Leave Tampa For The Summer Of 2021 And Head To Miami To Offer Some 6 And Eight Night Cruises To The Caribbean.
And Explorer Will Go To Galveston To Offer Some Very Long Cruises Out Of There That Include A Nine Night Bahamas Cruise And More!
 

Hi there, yes you are right all trains to go to Circular Quay. We were staying near Bridge Street which is about 3 blocks south of Circular Quay which has a light rail stop right outside the hotel so much easier with luggage! ?

Day 6 & 7 - At Sea
As we left the islands the clouds cleared and we had relatively calm seas and sunshine! Two full sea days allowed a lot of time to explore the ship and do some of the activities on board. Attended the Captains Corner in the morning which was both informative and interesting, the chief engineer was particularly funny! Also he seemed to mention about “Wonder of the Seas” being based half year in China and half year in Australia in 2021. First time I’ve heard that rumour.. The captain was sailing his last cruise before a much deserved break.
Day 6 there was the signature ‘Vegas style’ show called “Live, Love & Legs” this was a spectacular show in the main theatre with excellent lighting, music and costumes – a real highlight show. After this was the “Ovation Rocks” party which was in Two70 and was involving some of the dancers with commentary from the cruise director. Another enjoyable night. Day 7 was a relatively low key day being the last one and making sure to do everything before disembarkation tomorrow. Went to see the signature Two70 show (the only one requiring a reservation) "Pixels" in the early evening, this was technologically advanced show and utilised all elements of the space, people from the ceiling, the rear screen and the robotic screens. Very much enjoyed this show.
Went to the “Farewell Showtime” show after that on Day 7 which was a variety of acts.

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 6 & 7 - At Sea
As we left the islands the clouds cleared and we had relatively calm seas and sunshine! Two full sea days allowed a lot of time to explore the ship and do some of the activities on board. Attended the Captains Corner in the morning which was both informative and interesting, the chief engineer was particularly funny! Also he seemed to mention about “Wonder of the Seas” being based half year in China and half year in Australia in 2021. First time I’ve heard that rumour.. The captain was sailing his last cruise before a much deserved break.
Day 6 there was the signature ‘Vegas style’ show called “Live, Love & Legs” this was a spectacular show in the main theatre with excellent lighting, music and costumes – a real highlight show. After this was the “Ovation Rocks” party which was in Two70 and was involving some of the dancers with commentary from the cruise director. Another enjoyable night. Day 7 was a relatively low key day being the last one and making sure to do everything before disembarkation tomorrow. Went to see the signature Two70 show (the only one requiring a reservation) "Pixels" in the early evening, this was technologically advanced show and utilised all elements of the space, people from the ceiling, the rear screen and the robotic screens. Very much enjoyed this show.
Went to the “Farewell Showtime” show after that on Day 7 which was a variety of acts.

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 6 & 7 - At Sea
As we left the islands the clouds cleared and we had relatively calm seas and sunshine! Two full sea days allowed a lot of time to explore the ship and do some of the activities on board. Attended the Captains Corner in the morning which was both informative and interesting, the chief engineer was particularly funny! Also he seemed to mention about “Wonder of the Seas” being based half year in China and half year in Australia in 2021. First time I’ve heard that rumour.. The captain was sailing his last cruise before a much deserved break.
Day 6 there was the signature ‘Vegas style’ show called “Live, Love & Legs” this was a spectacular show in the main theatre with excellent lighting, music and costumes – a real highlight show. After this was the “Ovation Rocks” party which was in Two70 and was involving some of the dancers with commentary from the cruise director. Another enjoyable night. Day 7 was a relatively low key day being the last one and making sure to do everything before disembarkation tomorrow. Went to see the signature Two70 show (the only one requiring a reservation) "Pixels" in the early evening, this was technologically advanced show and utilised all elements of the space, people from the ceiling, the rear screen and the robotic screens. Very much enjoyed this show.
Went to the “Farewell Showtime” show after that on Day 7 which was a variety of acts.

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 6 & 7 - At Sea
As we left the islands the clouds cleared and we had relatively calm seas and sunshine! Two full sea days allowed a lot of time to explore the ship and do some of the activities on board. Attended the Captains Corner in the morning which was both informative and interesting, the chief engineer was particularly funny! Also he seemed to mention about “Wonder of the Seas” being based half year in China and half year in Australia in 2021. First time I’ve heard that rumour.. The captain was sailing his last cruise before a much deserved break.
Day 6 there was the signature ‘Vegas style’ show called “Live, Love & Legs” this was a spectacular show in the main theatre with excellent lighting, music and costumes – a real highlight show. After this was the “Ovation Rocks” party which was in Two70 and was involving some of the dancers with commentary from the cruise director. Another enjoyable night. Day 7 was a relatively low key day being the last one and making sure to do everything before disembarkation tomorrow. Went to see the signature Two70 show (the only one requiring a reservation) "Pixels" in the early evening, this was technologically advanced show and utilised all elements of the space, people from the ceiling, the rear screen and the robotic screens. Very much enjoyed this show.
Went to the “Farewell Showtime” show after that on Day 7 which was a variety of acts.

A nice photo of Ovation and Spectrum together in Sydney harbour yesterday before Spectrum left for her first complementary cruise.
Photo Credit: royalcaribbean_aunz

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 4 - Cruise Day!!! 
After a leisurely start to the day, checked out of accommodation at 11am. Then proceeded to the cruise terminal via the light rail. Boarding times were being enforced, but managed to get on after 12.30pm. Expedited arrival made the process quick and barely 15 min later was on board Ovation!! We set sail at 5pm. 
 
First impressions
Of course you notice the size to start with! Also being barely 4 years old everything is relatively new. I’ve found the ship very well laid out and each space flows into the other really well. You also definitely know there is somewhere around 4,500 people on board but haven’t had any big issues as yet. 
 
The Room 
Very impressive. The Family Junior Suite is a great room. Well laid out and plenty of storage. Also is generous size of around 300sqft. One unique feature is there is 2 bathrooms in this category one is just a toilet and basin the other has a bath and shower combo. 
 
Solarium Bistro - Dinner 
Had dinner booked at 8pm, the space is lovely but unfortunately was not so impressed with the dinner. Ordered the pasta of the day which was Spaghetti Bolonaise which came barely warm and very bland and tasteless. 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 8 - The last day!! ? 
What was unique in returning to Sydney was "Spectrum of the Seas" anchored in the harbour and we passed it on the way into the cruise port. First time these two ships have met. The view back into port is stunning with all the city lights, harbour bridge and opera house in view. We were quickly off the ship (as always) by around 8.30am with the last guests basically gone before 9! Then the return back home to New Zealand with the flight in the afternoon. 
Coming soon - Overall cruise review and observations. 
 

Day 4 - Noumeá, New Caledonia 
Our first port stop was Noumeá the main city of New Caledonia. Which is a French outpost. Arrived into the container port on time around 7.30am due to our size. There was in that case a bus shuttle to the City Centre (only about 5 minutes). 
Our Shore excursion wasn’t until 1pm so got off around 9.00am and had a walk around the centre and waterfront. It ain’t the prettiest city centre that’s for sure but managed to get a French pastry and enjoy an hour or so and take in the local sights. 
Returned to ship after that and then got off for the excursion at 1pm. This was the Noumeá sights and wine & cheese tasting tour (2hr 30). We started on a bus journey and went through various points of interest and local spots and lookouts. Let’s say out of the city Centre it’s a completely different place and quite beautiful. 
Sail away was 5pm and we left right on time. Beautiful views exiting the harbour. 
Dinner at Coastal Kitchen
Managed to get a booking for dinner here firstly i noticed how serene the space was and how nicely decorated it was as well. Service was definitely superb and the food a step up from the main dining room. 
Show - A Beautiful Dream 
One of the headline shows on Ovation which used the spectacular sets, lighting and choreography that the ship has and despite a slightly confused beginning ended up being a throughly enjoyable show. 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 5 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu 
The last port stop. Arrived into Mystery Island, Vanuatu at around 7.30am. This is a tender port and is only inhabited when a cruise ship visits. There is a local village which comes over for the day by sea and no one lives on the island. 
Weather wasn’t the greatest as showers off and on but proceeded to the island around 11am. A short 5 min tender ride. The island is beautiful lots of lush palm trees and vegetation and some clear waters. There is also market stalls like hair braiding, souvenirs etc. 
We left at 5pm later than the originally proposed 3.30pm on the itinerary this gave extra time on the island which was great. It also meant a bit more speed on the way back to Sydney. Almost 23 knots at one point! 
Bionic Bar 
You have to give it a go once! A fun experience and seeing all the stats of the drinks was interesting on the screens. 
Dinner at Jamies Italian 
A throughly enjoyable experience! Top notch Italian! 

Day 4 - Noumeá, New Caledonia 
Our first port stop was Noumeá the main city of New Caledonia. Which is a French outpost. Arrived into the container port on time around 7.30am due to our size. There was in that case a bus shuttle to the City Centre (only about 5 minutes). 
Our Shore excursion wasn’t until 1pm so got off around 9.00am and had a walk around the centre and waterfront. It ain’t the prettiest city centre that’s for sure but managed to get a French pastry and enjoy an hour or so and take in the local sights. 
Returned to ship after that and then got off for the excursion at 1pm. This was the Noumeá sights and wine & cheese tasting tour (2hr 30). We started on a bus journey and went through various points of interest and local spots and lookouts. Let’s say out of the city Centre it’s a completely different place and quite beautiful. 
Sail away was 5pm and we left right on time. Beautiful views exiting the harbour. 
Dinner at Coastal Kitchen
Managed to get a booking for dinner here firstly i noticed how serene the space was and how nicely decorated it was as well. Service was definitely superb and the food a step up from the main dining room. 
Show - A Beautiful Dream 
One of the headline shows on Ovation which used the spectacular sets, lighting and choreography that the ship has and despite a slightly confused beginning ended up being a throughly enjoyable show.