Say hello to Jackie, your go-to expert for all things cruise and sailing!

🧡 Location: Cruise Call Centre

🧡 Title: Senior Cruise Expert

🧡 Email: jackie.wilson@hays-travel.co.uk

🧡 Phone: 01450 818047

Hello, My name is Jackie and I am very passionate about Cruising. 
 
I began working on Board Cruise Ships in the early 80's and loved every minute. I never came back to work on dry land for 20 years. I Love every aspect of a Cruise as it can be as relaxing or as busy as I want it to be. One of my most memorable Cruises was sailing in and out of New York for the first time... I have now worked in the Cruise department of Hays for 15 years and every day is different as there is a perfect Ship to suit everyone.

Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, affectionately known as “Indy,” first launched in 2008 and remains one of the fleet’s most loved ships. After a return to Southampton in 2025, it quickly became a favorite among UK guests, drawing both loyal cruisers and first-time travelers. A major refurbishment in 2018 added exciting new features, including the Sky Pad virtual reality trampoline, a puzzle break room, laser tag, water slides, and a children’s aqua park. Active cruisers can also enjoy the FlowRider surf simulator, a full-sized skating rink with dazzling evening shows, and a variety of new dining and bar venues that enhance the ship’s already vibrant atmosphere.

Life onboard feels spacious despite the ship’s 4,515-guest capacity, thanks to its clever layout and thoughtful design. Deck 11, the lively Lido Deck, offers plenty of sun loungers, six hot tubs, a split pool area with Splashaway Bay for children, and a relaxing solarium for adults, making it easy to find just the right spot for your mood. A 220-square-foot movie screen on Deck 12 keeps guests entertained with films and videos throughout the day and evening, creating a fun open-air cinema feel. Dining is always close by, with the Windjammer Café serving international dishes, Fish & Ships for casual British bites, and Johnny Rockets for retro American diner fun complete with jukeboxes and freshly cooked favorites.

For main meals, the three-level Main Dining Room serves complimentary breakfast, dinner, and lunch on sea days, with optional premium upgrades such as filet mignon, lobster tail, or surf and turf for a special treat. Additional included venues include Café Promenade for snacks and Sorrento’s Pizza for late-night cravings, while specialty dining offers elevated experiences at Giovanni’s Table, Chop’s Grille, and Izumi Hibachi & Sushi. The menus are displayed outside each specialty venue so guests know exactly what to expect before committing, making it easy to plan dining around preferences and budget. Whether sticking to complimentary options or indulging in a specialty meal, guests can enjoy an impressive variety of flavors from around the world during their sailing.

The heart of the ship is the Royal Promenade on Deck 5, home to shops, bars, the ice cream parlor, and nightly entertainment with DJs and live bands playing from overhead bridges. Nearby venues include the Ale & Anchor Pub, Vintages wine bar, Sugar Beach, and the Champagne Bar, giving guests endless opportunities to socialize and unwind. Deck 4 adds even more variety with a lively sports bar, a large casino, and a dance club where you can salsa or simply enjoy the music with friends. Guests can also experience West End–style performances in the grand theater—such as Grease, complete with audience participation—that rival shows on land. To round off the night, the Viking Crown Lounge offers late-night dancing, stunning panoramic views, and DJs happy to take song requests. With so much variety, family-friendly activities, and warm service throughout, Independence of the Seas truly has something for everyone and guarantees a memorable cruise experience.