Rhapsody of the Seas, carrying 1,998 passengers, is a family-friendly ship, with a cheerful, casual atmosphere and a wealth of options for dining and entertainment. Along with sister Vision of the Seas, she has an elegant, classic profile and smart, light-filled interiors; the focus inside is the ten-deck-high Centrum, a dazzling atrium, a popular gathering place and the location of stunning aerial entertainment in the evenings.

This ship is packed with choices with new dining options following a big refit in 2012. As well as the two-deck Aquarius dining room, there's a Chops Grille, for delicious steaks and seafood; Izumi, where you can snack on sushi or sizzle your own meat and fish on a hot rock grill; an Italian trattoria; and a Chef's Table, where you dine with the chef at a five-course, wine-paired dinner, for a special occasion. A new cocktail bar, the R Bar, has also been added.

There are plenty of ways for families to spend the holiday together including a climbing wall, basketball court, two swimming pools, one with a giant movie screen, and a sunny Solarium for cooler days.

Younger passengers of all ages are well catered for with a nursery, teen centre and the Adventure Ocean kids' club, allowing parents time off to enjoy the Vitality Spa, to sunbathe or to hit the gym. That's not to mention the multiple bars and cafes throughout the ship, which, in addition to the R Bar, include Royal Caribbean's trademark Viking Crown Lounge, with sweeping ocean views; the Schooner Bar, adorned with nautical memorabilia; and a big, lively casino.

Cabins are fitted in soft, calming colours and range from inside accommodation to balcony cabins, interconnecting cabins for families and sumptuous suites.