The original Oasis Class cruise ship has gotten approval to start test cruises.

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley confirmed on Tuesday Oasis of the Seas has received permission from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to start test cruises.

Other ships that have gotten approval to conduct test cruises include Freedom of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas.

The CDC's provisional approval for simulated voyages on Oasis of the Seas is August 22-28, 2021.

Mr. Bayley commented later on that the test cruises will sail from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey.

Simulated voyages (also known as test cruises) are when cruise lines can operate ships with volunteer passengers in order to prove their new protocols work.

These are not cruises you can book, but rather, are limited voyages where a cruise line invites certain unpaid volunteers to help go through all the necessary steps and procedures to ensure cruise ships can be run safely.

Each cruise ship needs to be approved by the CDC in order to conduct test cruises.

Royal Caribbean International is pursuing one of two pathways, laid out by the CDC, to get back to cruising. It requires that U.S-based ships conduct
simulation cruises to test health and safety protocols if the cruise line expects to return to sailing with less than 95% fully vaccinated guests or crew.

Royal Caribbean says it is a family brand, which typically sees children under the age of 12 make up 10% of guests on board, and today, they are ineligible for the
vaccine.

"We are committed to continuing to deliver memorable family vacations, and it is why we are conducting simulation cruises."

During these test cruises, Royal Caribbean will go through a variety of scenarios to prove to the CDC that the ship can conduct sailings in a safe manner. Specifically, the new protocols aimed at preventing Covid-19 from getting onboard the ship are at the heart of these dry runs.

According to the CDC, passengers and crew must meet standards during the simulated voyage for hand hygiene, use of face masks, and social distancing for passengers and crew, as well as ship sanitation.

Royal Caribbean must modify meal service and entertainment venues to facilitate social distancing during the simulated voyage.

There is nothing like Royal Caribbean's biggest and most expansive cruise ships, the Oasis Class ships.

There are four Oasis Class ships currently (with Wonder of the Seas joining the fleet in 2022), and they each offer so much for guests to do on vacation.

If you have a cruise booked on one of these incredible cruise ships, here is a list of must-dos that will not cost you anything extra!

Watch a Broadway show

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Every Oasis Class ship has a full length Broadway show onboard that you can see over and over again.

Performances are found in the Royal Theater and unlike seeing a musical in Times Square or at home, there is no extra cost to them.

• Oasis of the Seas: Cats
• Allure of the Seas: Mamma Mia
• Harmony of the Seas: Grease
• Symphony of the Seas: Hairspray

Play Laser Tag

Ships available: Symphony, Oasis.

At special laser tag sessions, Royal Caribbean transforms Studio B into a glow-in-the-dark arena that invites everyone to see if they can conquer the, "Battle for Planet Z".

Guests can put on  special laser tag vests, grab a laser tag gun and head into the arena for a fast-paced team-game that rewards the group that works well together and coordinates their efforts.  Just like laser tag on land, Battle for Planet Z is a high-energy race with bragging rights for the rest of the cruise on the line!

Zip line

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Every Oasis Class ship has a zip line over the Boardwalk neighborhood where you can traverse the 82 foot long distance while looking down on passengers below.

The zip line is set up nine decks above the sea, and it is an exhilarating ride across.  It is also a very quick ride, so if you have never done a zip line before, this is a great primer.

Note that guests have to weigh more than 75 pounds, but less than 275 pounds, as well as be at least 52" tall.

Ultimate Abyss

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis

If you are looking for a great family friendly thrill, check out the Ultimate Abyss slide.

The Ultimate Abyss is a dry slide (no water, you ride down on a mat) and will take you more than 150 feet above sea level as you twist and turn down 10 decks at about 9 miles per hour.

It looks scarier than it is, and worth giving a try.

Watch an AquaTheater show

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

One of the classic experiences available only on an Oasis Class ship is the AquaTheater shows.

Known for a combination of theatrics, dance, and high dives, the shows in the AquaTheater are set in an open air amphitheater at the aft of the cruise ship and have become a very popular show to see.

Between the acrobatics, high dives, and music, there is a lot to enjoy during these half hour performances.

Be sure to get tickets (no cost) in advance via the Cruise Planner site because seating is very limited.

Ice skating

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

It may sound odd that you can go ice skating on a cruise ship in the middle of the Caribbean, but you can do just that on an Oasis Class ship.

Throughout the cruise, open skate sessions are held in Studio B, where you can rent a pair of skates and safety equipment for no additional cost and take to the ice.

Passengers must wear long pants and must sign a waiver to participate.

Plunge down a water slide

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis.

Water slides are bound to put a smile on just about anyone because it is such a fun cruise ship activity.

The Perfect Storm trio of water slides offer two racer slides and a champagne bowl slide that are included in your cruise fare.  As you slide down any of the slides, you will twist and turn three decks into a splashy finish.

Check out the art

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Every Royal Caribbean ship features a large and varied art collection onboard that you can see throughout your cruise.

Located in hallways, stair cases and everywhere inbetween, each Oasis Class ship has an extensive art collection that you can peruse on your own.  This is a great sea day activity for the whole family, and each ship has a different theme to the art onboard.

Splashaway Bay

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis (Allure of the Seas has H2O Zone, which is somewhat similar)

While older kids and adults may enjoy going down the water slides, younger kids will absolutely love Splashaway Bay aqua park.

Kids will find fountains, buckets, sprays and even slides that will leave them as drenched as enamoured with all the fun.

It is a great spot for kids to cool off, and there is even a Splash Pad for toddlers use.

Ride the carousel

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Your Oasis Class cruise is not complete without enjoying a ride on the carousel in the Boardwalk neighborhood.

Inspired by turn-of-the-century carousels, Royal Caribbean commissioned hand crafted carousels to be made for all of its cruise ships.  These are beautiful rides that are equally as fun to ride as they are to enjoy their beauty.

There is also an ADA-accessible chariot, which means everyone can enjoy it.

Be sure to ride at night as well to enjoy how beautiful the carousel looks when lit up.

Mini-golf

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

You must challenge the family to at least one round of putt-putt while on any Oasis Class ship.

You can play on the green as often as you like, while enjoying some beautiful views of the ocean that surrounds you.  No reservations are required, just show up and grab a putter and ball. 

Like the carousel, be sure to try out night time mini golf one evening to mix things up.

Drop the kids off at camp

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Adventure Ocean is Royal Caribbean's award winning supervised (and complimentary) children's programming at sea and it is the perfect escape for kids.

Kids will love the array of fun activities onboard and parents will enjoy some time apart from the kiddos!

Flowrider

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Every Oasis Class ship features two Flowrider surf simulators, where you can challenge yourself to master the art of riding a surfboard.

This is a free activity, so all you have to do is show up and wait your turn in line. 

In addition, Royal Caribbean offers private and group lessons for a nominal fee, if you feel the need to learn quicker.

Even if you have no interest in surfing, there is seating available to watch others give it a try.

See an ice show

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Royal Caribbean puts on some must-see shows in Studio B on its ships every sailing.

Each ship offers a different ice show, and they tell a lovely story while showing off some incredible feats of ice skating.  Many of the skaters are former Olympic and national skating competitors.

Enjoy a snack at El Loco Fresh

Ships available: Symphony, Oasis.

If you consider yourself a lover of Mexican food, be sure to grab a few bites at El Loco Fresh.

The grab-and-go Mexican quick service restaurant is conveniently located on the pool deck, and you will have your choice of tacos, burritos and quesadillas. 

There is also a large salsa station where you can add all sorts of toppings to your chips!

Enjoy a walk through Central Park

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

An iconic part of any Oasis Class ship is Central Park.

Located in the heart of the ship on deck 8, this is an open air park that features living plants, shrubs and trees, and is a quieter district of an otherwise busy cruise ship.

At night, the park features live music performances, as well as beautiful lighting.  

Central Park is also where you will find specialty restaurants you can dine at for lunch or dinner (extra cost) or Park Cafe (complimentary) for meals and snacks throughout the day.

Free breakfast at Johnny Rockets

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

One of my favorite Oasis Class secrets is you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Johnny Rockets.

All Oasis-class ships offer this option, but many guests are unaware that breakfast is served here, nor that it is included with your cruise fare (Johnny Rockets has a cover charge for lunch and dinner).

The Johnny Rockets breakfast menu is a traditional American breakfast, with pancakes, omelettes, French toast and the like.  

Johnny Rockets tends to be not very crowded for breakfast, because many guests are unaware of this option, and it also has a large seating capacity (indoor and outdoor seating options).

Sing karaoke

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Whether at the Open Air Club or Spotlight Karaoke (Oasis), you will find a fan-favorite activity on any cruise ship: karaoke.

Guests can pick a song from a library of choices and then take the stage to show off their vocal range (or maybe lack thereof).

Enjoy a parade

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

On the Royal Promenade, you can take in a parade during your cruise.  

Royal Caribbean's entertainment staff perform a parade during the cruise that feature colorful and larger-than-life costumes that are a fun diversion from the usual activities.

Be sure to arrive early, as seating is limited along the Royal Promenade path.

Find the Small Wonders

Ships available: Oasis, Allure.

Hidden all over Oasis and Allure of the Seas is a series of art displays known as "Small Wonders", where you will find 42 natural wonders positioned all over the ship.

When you find one, there will be something that looks like a periscope or telescope that if you peer into, you will find these tiny three dimensional pieces of art.

This is a fun activity for kids or adults to try to find them all and it is one of those hidden gems many guests simply overlook.

Hint: if you give up and cannot find them all, Guest Services can provide you with a list of them all to help!

Virtual reality games

Ships available: Oasis, Symphony.

Royal Caribbean's smart phone app is free to use onboard the ship, and features a few virtual reality games that you can play in the Boardwalk neighborhood.

Once in the Boardwalk, look for the various game posters near Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade.  Launch the app, select the icon that looks like a circus tent and then point your camera towards the poster.

Watch the ship's wake

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

Looking for somewhere that is shaded and is quiet and a great spot to sit and relax?  

Head to deck 5 and go all the way to the aft of the ship.  You will find chairs that have a great view of the ocean and are usually devoid of other passengers. You can also access this area by going behind the AquaTheater and going down the stairs.

Enjoy a drink on the Rising Tide Bar

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

There is something undeniably cool about a bar that moves between decks, and on Oasis class ships, the Rising Tide bar does just that.

The Rising Tide Bar continuously moves between the Royal Promenade and Central Park, offering some great views while you enjoy your favorite cocktail.

Order a drink and enjoy the view as the bar moves between decks. Be sure to wave to the people around you as you depart.

See a robot make a drink

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis.

The Bionic Bar is as appealing to watch as it is to enjoy a cocktail crafted here. You will find quite often many guests simply watching the robots in action, although there is usually plenty of folks ordering drinks as well.

The idea is simple: guests place orders via tablets and then can watch the robot bartenders start mixing the cocktails. Bionic Bar combines two big trends, robotics and mixology.

The single armed robot will get the ice, mints and lemon and then squeeze and shake them to make your drink. Eventually, there wont be a limit on what the drinks the robots can make. The customization is what Royal Caribbean is aiming for.

Tackle the rock climbing wall

Ships available: Symphony, Harmony, Oasis, Allure.

One of the signature onboard activities that Royal Caribbean has become well-known for is the rock climbing wall. 

Just like the Flowrider, Oasis Class ships have two rock walls that you can try, including different tracks for different experience levels.

 It is usually open most of the day for kids and adults to enjoy.  Royal Caribbean provides all the safety equipment that you will need, including helmets, harnesses and shoes.  You just need to bring a pair of socks.

Climbers need to be at least 6 years old and sign a waiver.  Climbing the rock wall is free and no reservations are required.

Among the many new additions to Oasis of the Seas is a signature escape room experience, known as Mission Control: Apollo 18.

Guests participating in the escape room try to solve a series of puzzles before time runs out, that requires them to man their stations from Mission Control and successfully launch Apollo 18 to the moon. 

The flight director of the renowned Apollo program, Gerry Griffin, applauded the immersive experience’s level of detail, including the escape room’s resemblance to Johnson Space Center's Apollo Mission Control Center in Houston.

Griffin toured the new escape when Oasis of the Seas resumed sailings in November.

This new video coincides with the Apollo 16 splashdown anniversary, in which astronauts John W. Young, Thomas K. Mattingly II, and Charles M. Duke Jr. were inside the Apollo 16 Command Module as it touch downed in the central Pacific Ocean to conclude their lunar landing mission on April 27, 1972. 

Image Credit: NASA

Apollo 16 was the tenth crewed mission in the United States Apollo space program, the fifth and second-to-last to land on the Moon, and the second to land in the lunar highlands.

Two crew members from Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas were evacuated off Oasis of the Seas in Port Everglades on Sunday evening.

The Miami Herald reports the two crew members were "showing COVID-19 symptoms."  The evacuations were made possible with the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Oasis of the Seas is not conducting cruises with guests onboard.  Royal Caribbean has been shutdown since mid-March, but their ships remain sailing until the industry is ready to resume service.

At least 14 crew members on board have tested positive for COVID-19 on Oasis of the Seas.

On March 30, one Oasis of the Seas crew member and one Symphony of the Seas crew member were evacuated with respiratory problems. On April 2, two more Oasis crew members were evacuated to Broward Health hospitals.

Approximately 14 crew members on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas have tested positive for coronavirus.

The Miami Herald is reporting a recording by the ship's Captain confirms the presence of COVID-19 onboard.

Oasis of the Seas has no guests onboard. Royal Caribbean suspended operations for at least 60 days beginning in mid-March.

Crew-Center.com reports the crew that have tested positive will remain onboard, and other enhanced measures will take place to prevent the spread of the virus.

Royal Caribbean said in a statement: “The health and well-being of our crew is our foremost priority. Crewmembers who exhibited symptoms were evaluated by our medical staff and remain under close supervision. In accordance with our health and safety protocols, our crew have been asked to self-isolate in cabins while we await confirmation of initial results from public health authorities.”

Oasis of the Seas is currently sailing around The Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was revolutionary when she debuted in 2009, and more than 10 years later, she is still one of the most beloved ships in the fleet among cruisers.

Her $165 million transformation in 2019 added a thrilling combination of new Royal Caribbean experiences for guests to enjoy.

With so much to like about this ship, here is a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about Oasis of the Seas.

Where does Oasis of the Seas depart from?

Oasis will offer 7-night Bahamas cruises from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, starting Sept. 5; and 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, beginning November.

While sailing from PortMiami, Oasis of the Seas sails from Terminal 1.

When was Oasis of the Seas refurbished?

Oasis of the Seas underwent a refurbishment in 2019 as part of the Royal Amplified program, that added a number of changes, including , including the cruise line’s first barbecue restaurant, Portside BBQ; and guest favorites, from the tallest slide at sea–the Ultimate Abyss–to popular live music venue Music Hall, and a reimagined, Caribbean pool deck. 

There were quite a few changes made, but here are the most noteworthy ones:

• Caribbean-style pool deck makeover, complete with Lime & Coconut signature bar. New day beds, casitas and variety of seating were added.
• Ultimate Abyss slide (dry slide)
• The Perfect Storm water slides
• Splashaway Bay aqua park
• Portside BBQ specialty restaurant
• El Loco Fresh complimentary Mexican restaurant
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Sugar Beach candy shop
• Spotlight Karaoke venue
• Music Hall venue
• Bionic Bar
• Revamped Adventure Ocean
• Mission Control: Apollo 18 escape room

In short, the 2019 upgrades to Oasis enhanced the ship to bring it in line with any new cruise ship available to sail on today. These additions are aimed to keep the ship just as relevant and intriguing as any new Royal Caribbean ship.

How much does it cost to go on Oasis of the Seas?

The price for a cruise on Oasis of the Seas will depend on a variety of factors, so pricing can really run the gamut of options.

Many first timers are curious how much does a cruise cost. The total cost is a combination of the cruise fare, transportation, gratuities, beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, internet, photos and more.

How much a Royal Caribbean costs depends so much on the choices you make before and during the cruise. Many of the extra costs are optional, but then again you are on vacation and indulging is what makes vacation so fun.

With a few exceptions, Oasis of the Seas typically offers 7-night cruises with prices that are budget friendly, as well as more extravagant suite options for those that want to splurge.

Is Oasis of the Seas a good ship?

It is very common to be curious if Oasis is a "good ship", especially among new cruisers.

Oasis of the Seas is not only a great ship, she is among the best ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet in terms of the amenities and activities it offers, quality service onboard, and the latest innovations.

The ship is one of the largest ships in the world, with plenty of space to offer things to do onboard for guests of all ages. Water slides, specialty dining, an escape room, pools, ice skating, a Broadway show and more await you on this ship.

Does Oasis of the Seas have formal nights?

Yes, on a 7-night sailing, Oasis of the Seas will offer two formal nights. 

Formal night will be held on Day 2 and 5 on Western itineraries and Day 2 and 6 on Eastern itineraries. 

What times are the shows on Oasis of the Seas?

Exact times of shows and activities will vary from sailing to sailing.

To get a ballpark idea of what shows, activities and times are on Oasis, consult a past Cruise Compass. Copies of a recent Cruise Compass are a great way to learn about what your ship offers, as well as get an idea of what to expect in terms of show times.

Royal Caribbean does allow guests to pre-book shows on Oasis of the Seas via the Cruise Planner site.  Around 45-60 days prior to sailing, entertainment for Oasis of the Seas becomes available to book. Reserving a show time has no additional cost, and assures you of a spot in a specific performance.

If you are unable to book a show in advance, there is always a standby line available to wait in, which means closer to show time, any open seats will be available on a first-come, first reserved basis.

What restaurants are free on the Oasis of the Seas?

• Windjammer
• Park Cafe
• Boardwalk Dog House
• Solarium Bistro
• El Loco Fresh
• Sorrento's
• Cafe Promenade
• Main Dining Room
• Johnny Rockets (breakfast only)

How many pools does Oasis of the Seas have?

There are four primary pools on Oasis of the Seas, along with a series of whirlpools, and Splashaway Bay aqua park.

The pools are not heated. The Beach Pool is saltwater, and the other pools are fresh water filtered pools.

The pools are located on deck 15 and 16.

What shows are playing on Oasis of the Seas?

Among the many things to do on Oasis of the Seas are the signature shows. This includes:

• Cats, the Broadway musical, in the Royal Theater
• One Sky in the Royal Theater
• Aqua80s in the AquaTheater
• Frozen in Time in Studio B

There is no additional cost to see these shows

Is Oasis of the Seas the largest cruise ship in the world?

While Oasis of the Seas used to be the largest cruise ship in the world, she no longer holds that title.

Oasis is the fourth largest cruise ship, having been surpassed by sister vessels Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean International’s first barbecue restaurant, Portside BBQ, debuts on the newly amplified Oasis of the Seas with an authentic, meat-packed menu inspired by the best-in-class barbecue across the United States. Offering a variety of options, from smoked marbled brisket, pulled pork and turkey legs, to beef ribs and burnt ends, the casual eatery on the pool deck ties it all together with classic sides – think mac and cheese, homestyle cornbread, baked beans and coleslaw – and down-home desserts like the Banana Dream and a brownie-cookie mashup known as the Brookie.

A man from Naples, Florida was found dead after the Coast Guard found his body underwater while Oasis of the Seas was docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

CBS News reports a spokesperson for the Coast Guard in San Juan said surveillance footage showed what appeared to be a "clean jump" from about 177 feet up.

UPDATE: @USCG says surveillance video shows "a clean jump" by a 46yo man from Naples, FL., who dropped 177 feet, from the 10 story deck of @RoyalCarribean's 'Oasis of the Seas', last night, while the ship was docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Divers recovered the mans body. pic.twitter.com/vbUWaorB3k

— David Begnaud (@DavidBegnaud) January 23, 2020

Oasis of the Seas is currently chartered for an annual cruise that caters to the LGBTQ+ community, known as Atlantis. 

The Coast Guard investigation is ongoing, as they try to determine what motivated the man. 

Update 1:30pm: Royal Caribbean has issued a statement on the incident.

"We are assisting authorities with their investigation of the death of a male guest in San Juan, Puerto Rico, last evening."

"Security footage indicates the man intentionally went overboard from Oasis of the Seas. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

When Royal Caribbean spent $165 million in upgrades to Oasis of the Seas, along with new water slides, restaurants and activities, the ship debuted a much enhanced and upgraded retail offer.

In coordination with Starboard Cruise Services, eight retail areas on three decks were refurbished and expanded across more than 7,000sq ft. These cover key categories including fine watches & jewellery, fashion jewellery, beauty & fragrance, a destination shop, branded merchandise, apparel and leather, plus a dedicated John Hardy location.

Among the retail highlights is What Goes Around Comes Around, featuring curated luxury brands from around the world, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Gucci.

The destination-inspired Island Market aims to bring “the spirit of the Caribbean” to life. Encouraging discovery, the space’s vibrant props and colourful cards tell the stories of the talents behind brands such as Debbie Katz with coastal-inspired beachwear; Tagua, a colourful modern jewellery line; and Marcela Cofre, known for crafting colourful glass designs and jewellery.

In fine watches, the Swiss timepieces offer includes Hublot, TAG Heuer, Breitling and Longines, among others.

The first dedicated John Hardy shop in the Royal Caribbean fleet features the jeweller’s handcrafted collections inspired by Balinese jewellery-making traditions. Adding an experiential twist, John Hardy’s Sail to Bali is a hands-on workshop where guests learn the eight-step Balinese jewellery-making traditions that John Hardy employs.

Oasis of the Seas is not only one of Royal Caribbean's most popular cruise ships and one of the largest ship in the world, it is also a real trailblazer. 

In this video, I have seven surprising facts you may not have known about Oasis of the Seas.

And if you love this video, we have lots of other great cruise videos to watch on our Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel!

By the way, have you subscribed yet? Be sure to subscribe to our channel and never miss a single video!

So check out the video and then let us know: Which of these facts was the most interesting or surprising?