Guide to cruising the South Pacific: Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas
After 23 years I took the plunge and went on the seven day cruise of the South Pacific I said I would never do again. Here’s my guide and tips for a fabulous cruising holiday.
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After more than 20 years I decided to revisit the seven day cruise of the South Pacific I said I would never do again.
In my early 20s I embarked on my first overseas holiday and spent most of my time in my cabin seasick from cyclonic weather. It truly was the week from hell.
I have often wondered what attracts people to cruise time and time again so I agreed to take the plunge to find out more.
In February I was a guest on the Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas. The ship is on its third season in Queensland offering 11 cruises to Mystery Island and Port Vila, Vanuatu, and Noumea, New Caledonia.
Within the first hour I met a couple from the Sunshine Coast fully entrenched in the cruising cult family. They were on their 21st cruise and soon become my ‘go to’ buddies.
We dressed up for the 70s theme night, met for a cocktails and often snacked on the open all hours restaurant Sorrento’s Pizza.
It was also through them I was introduced to two NSW travellers on their 46th cruise which truly astounded me.
What could possibly make you want to cruise so many times I wondered: “From past experience life is too short, so we enjoy it while we can,” they told me.
“Once you have a good cruise you will be hooked,” and now on reflection I tend to agree.
Quantum is an incredible ship standing 1.5 times taller than Skypoint Tower on the Gold Coast and two times wider than The Storey Bridge in Brisbane.
It has 16 decks and can cater for almost 5000 guests including 1500 crew.
TIPS AND TRICKS
– Everything on the ship is priced in US dollars
– Get off in port, mainland tours are cheaper but if there are delays, the ship won’t wait
– Don’t do money exchange, you can use your card in Noumea just alert your bank
– On Mystery Island you need Australian dollars, small denominations
– Look out for hidden costs, some things on the ship are extra like movies
– Take seasick tablets with you, guest services have them but they can run out
– Be early for activities like trivia and contests, they fill up fast
– If you are unsure just ask someone, everyone is friendly
– Follow the crowd, it always leads to something fun
– Don’t rush to buy things on the ship, a lot can get discounted on the last day
– Pace yourself on the drinks package, it doesn’t run out
The drinks are free flowing with the Deluxe Beverage Package and there is endless food to choose from with the buffet, complimentary dining and nine speciality dining restaurants like the Japanese restaurant Isumi, Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver and American steakhouse Chops Grille where I was lucky enough to dine.
Entertainment is never hard to find with trivia contests, dance classes, gym sessions and even the Bellyflop Competition or the Sexiest Man Contest on the top deck for a good laugh. Every hour there is something to do for singles, couples, children and families. Or you can swim in the pool (there is an adult’s only section too) the spa or read a book in one of the quiet areas.
Quantum has two ports of call which is a nice change after two days at sea.
Noumea, New Caledonia is the first stop, the mainland does not have much to offer unless you want to explore the city or go shopping but there are endless tour options.
You can visit the aquarium, have a guided city tour, immerse yourself in the French culture of Lemon Bay or take a day trip away.
I ventured to the private island which features the resort DoubleTree by Hilton. It is just 15 minute boat ride and has beautiful bungalows over the water and countless turtles you can easily swim with. Because I sourced the trip on the mainland I scored a day trip for just $35 Australian.
Mystery Island in Vanuatu is the second port of call and you arrive after a night of cruising. It is a truly magical destination with breathtaking water that will tempt even the most novice snorkeller.
Make sure you buy a water proof case for your phone because the experience is amazing with a shark cave and endless tropical fish and sea turtles should you be so lucky – which we were.
After a full day on the island it is back to the ship to enjoy two days of cruising before the return to Brisbane.
After seven nights of endless entertainment, too much food and cocktails it was time to bid farewell to my new cruise friends who have racked up 68 combined cruises.
Not surprisingly they are not getting off this time around.
The four of them are setting off on a second round one more time, they have also already booked in for the next summer series in 2025.
QUANTUM OF THE SEAS AT A GLANCE
– 16 decks
– Total capacity for 4,905 guests
– 1,500 crew
– More than 41 metres wide and 347 metres long
– 22 knots cruising speed
– Maiden voyage: November 2, 2014
ON-BOARD ACTIVITIES
Quantum has great add-on activities for the adventurous. The North Star elevates guests high above the ship for unrivalled 360-degree views.
The observation capsule is also the winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
At the rear of the ship you can do RipCord by iFLY which is a skydiving simulator along with the FlowRider surf simulator. Make sure to get in early, it is popular and you are required to line up. It is worth the wait to surf off at the back of the ship to spectacular views.
Inside the ship offers 10 bars and lounges like the Bionic Bar where a robot can make you a cocktail.
For those who like adventure and family fun SeaPlex features a full-size regulation basketball court that can turn into the first-ever bumper car and roller skating rink at sea.
The rear lower deck known as Two70 offers 270-degree panoramic sea views and is multidimensional for live performers and trivia nights.
There is also a Royal Theatre with fantastic live shows, comedians and entertainment.
Quantum of the Seas leaves from Brisbane’s Pinkenba cruise terminal and its last cruise to the South Pacific for 2024 will be held on March 28. The writer was a guest of Royal Caribbean for its February 7 voyage.
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