She's Back — And She's Better Than Ever: Meet the Amplified Ovation of the Seas 

There's a certain magic in taking something beloved and making it extraordinary. Think of it like your favorite album getting a deluxe remaster — the songs you already love, now with richer sound, deeper bass, and bonus tracks you didn't know you needed. That's exactly what Royal Caribbean has done with Ovation of the Seas through its Royal Amplified program, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. 

After weeks in drydock in Singapore, Ovation of the Seas has emerged from a major refurbishment — now sailing and ready to wow a new generation of cruisers. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning loyalist, this ship is worth a second — or third — look. 

What Is the Royal Amplified Program? 

Think of Royal Amplified as Royal Caribbean’s version of a gut renovation. Unlike other cruise lines' drydock periods that simply replace worn upholstery or slap a new name on the main dining restaurant, Royal Caribbean's Amplifications go far deeper — introducing the latest experiences and new venues, with extensive enhancements to existing spaces, all while preserving the vibrant excitement that made these ships beloved in the first place.  

What's New on Ovation of the Seas? 

Dining That Demands a Reservation 

The culinary scene on board has gotten a serious upgrade. Giovanni's Italian Kitchen has replaced Jamie's Italian, bringing Royal Caribbean's in-house Italian brand to Ovation — a fresh take on the classics from a kitchen that knows its pasta.  

For something more theatrical, Izumi Teppanyaki has arrived — a hibachi experience where chefs cook right in front of you. Notably, this is the first time teppanyaki has come to a Quantum Class ship adjacent to the Izumi sushi restaurant, creating a one-two Japanese dining punch that's hard to beat. It's no gimmick: hibachi has become the most popular restaurant by volume across the entire Royal Caribbean fleet.  

And yes — Starbucks has also made its way on board, taking over the space formerly occupied by La Patisserie on the Royal Esplanade. Your morning cold brew at sea? Sorted. 

Drinks With Personality 

Raise a glass to the newest bar on the ship: the Pesky Parrot, a tiki-inspired bar first introduced on Utopia of the Seas — now making its Quantum Class debut on Ovation. A vibrant Caribbean-style spot with a menu of colourful cocktails, the vibes are always relaxed here. (Keep an eye out for the robotic parrot — it has opinions.) 

Nightlife and Entertainment 

The Sound Cellar nightclub has been added, and Casino Royale has been significantly expanded — giving night owls plenty of reasons to stay up past midnight. Think of it as the ship's after-dark district, now bigger and bolder. 

Revamped Spaces & Suites 

The pool deck has been refreshed with private casitas and a new whirlpool — your own little slice of resort luxury, at sea. And for families who want to go all-in, the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite have been added to the accommodation lineup.  

40 new staterooms have also been added across decks 12, 13, and 16, along with 19 more cabins on decks 5 and 9  — meaning more guests can experience what this ship has to offer. 

The Classics Are Still Here 

Don't worry — the features that made Ovation a fan favorite haven't gone anywhere. The FlowRider surf simulator, RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, and the SeaPlex — the largest indoor activity space at sea, complete with bumper cars, a full-size sports court, and a roller-skating rink — are all still on board. The North Star observation capsule still rises 300 feet above sea level, offering views that will stop you mid-sentence. 

Where Is She Sailing? 

The newly amplified Ovation of the Seas just completed it’s transatlantic sailing from Singapore to Yokohama, Japan, before heading to Vancouver, Canada — where she's kicking off open-jaw Alaska cruises for the summer, sailing between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska. Alaska itineraries include visits to Sitka, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising past the breathtaking Hubbard Glacier.  

I had the pleasure of experiencing it's inaugural sailing- catch up on my experience on Instagram.

The Bottom Line 

The Amplified Ovation of the Seas isn't just a refreshed ship — it's a statement. Royal Caribbean took a vessel that cruisers already loved and gave it the ingredients to become truly unforgettable: better food, bolder nightlife, more places to stay, and all the adventure the original was known for. Whether you're chasing glaciers in Alaska or cocktails at the Pesky Parrot, this ship delivers. 

Ready to set sail? Reach out to discover Ovation of the Seas, Alaska, and Royal Caribbean.