Freedom of the Seas is a showstopper with more than Royal Caribbean's promised 'wow factor' - much more. This is one of the most technologically-advanced examples of 'entertainment architecture' at sea, where the vast array of public spaces offers non-stop diversions.

The very heart of the 3,896-passenger Freedom of the Seas is a four-deck high boulevard known as the Royal Promenade. Here you can snack on pizzas while the kids head to Ben & Jerry's ice cream parlour; enjoy a pint in the Bull and Bear Pub or have a trim in the Barber Shop.

Throughout the seven decks of accommodation, there's a huge range of suites and staterooms including a Presidential Suite for extended families. There are also five other large family-focused accommodations over and above standard triples and quads. Among the 21 categories are interior staterooms that look down onto the Royal Promenade. All accommodations have flat-screen televisions and there's Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the ship.

On the upper decks there's a FlowRider where you can surf and body-board; the spectacular H2O Zone is a colourful wonderland of brightly-hued sculptures doubling as interactive fountains that spray, sprinkle and spurt water in every direction; this is transformed into an open-air nightclub after dark. Two large hot tubs are cantilevered out from the sides of the ship and suspended above the ocean, and if this doesn't get the adrenalin flowing, there's a rock-climbing wall with 11 challenging routes. Studio B, the onboard skating rink, is open for skating lessons and free skating during the day while by night, this venue stages a spectacular ice show. With a cast of 16 professional skaters it is possibly the most enthralling show at sea.