Caravanning down to Fort Lauderdale on December 1, 2009 on a family holiday cruise, the first to arrive and board the Oasis, was my son and his family. His only words back to the rest of us via our cell phones was "WOW!".. then "WOW...and again--"WOW." Needless to say we could hardly wait to get to our destination--the OASIS of the SEAS. And yes! It is one big WOW of a ship. I cannot even use the word "impressive." It is more like "jaw-droppingly" beautiful. (And if that isn't a proper word--add it to your dictionary because you'll find there is no other way to communicate your impression of the Oasis).

Not only is the ship incredible--Labadee with its enhanced port facilities are just as magnificent. Do not stay on the ship at Labadee, as we many times have done thinking it is the same old island. It is no longer just a beach that you have to be tendered to with Haitian Flea Markets, kayaking, para-sailing and a barbeque lunch. RCI has worked with Haiti's government to construct a new pier. They have added new and exciting shore side activities: an Alpine coaster, fast-boat tours, the stunning Dragon's Breath Flight Line (world’s longest (2,600′) zip-line over water) Walkways, landscaping, clean bathrooms, sheltered picnic areas and cabanas. The resort is completely tourist-oriented and safe as there is a personal security force. More... later after sharing our too-short stay on the beautiful ship.

Our first order of business is always getting acclimated with the ship’s layout. Usually we start by memorizing deck plans, and wondering if we are at the front or back of the ship. But on this ship it is easy. Near each elevator there is an electronic deck layout map. Tell the map where you want to go--and it will show you where you are--and where you want to end up.

BOARDWALK AND THE AQUA THEATRE

We started initially to explore the Boardwalk stern-side with the Aqua Theatre where the divers and swimmers were doing a day practice. We held our breath as we watched the two high divers coming off the 30-foot piers (on the left and right side of the RCI signature anchor in photo) into what seemed to be a very small pool of water. Yet, the pool is the largest and deepest freshwater pool at sea, a 51-by-22-foot kidney shaped body whose depth can be adjusted to a maximum of 17.9 feet--deep enough to accommodate the high divers from the 30-foot dive platforms.

During the day, guests can swim or take scuba lessons in the AquaTheatre's pool, or lounge around it in the tiered semicircle of 600-deck recliners

The evening performance was even more spectacular with acrobatic divers, trapeze artists and precision swimmers. Guests can watch what goes on below the water via underwater cameras that project the action onto the two giant screens.

The "Oasis of Dreams" show is set against the backdrop of a nighttime sky. It's an amazing dive show consisting of Olympic athletes from all around the world, as well as NCAA champion athletes including divers, synchronized swimmers and gymnasts. Featuring an original soundtrack and synchronized with fountain shows, lighting and special effects, the all-star cast performed a stunning spectacular making this a favorite venue that brought guests to their feet.

...the finale with dancing fountains of light!

BOARDWALK

Boardwalk is classic Coney Island where you can get an air-brushed tattoo, grab a hamburger and a milkshake at Johnny Rockets, seafood at the Seafood Shack, or indulge at the donut, candy ice cream shops.

The Cupcake Cupboard Boardwalk Donut Shop

Ice Cream Parlor Seafood Shack

And who can, regardless of age, resist the hand-carved wooden carousel? On the Oasis, many of the ship’s top attractions (carousel rides, FlowRider surfing sessions, ice skating, miniature golf) are free. But here are some of the more eye-popping surcharges being charged:

SNACKS
Cupcake Cupboard: $2.50 per cupcake

Ice Cream Parlor: $2 for two scoops, $6.95 for a gut-busting sundae that feeds two.

Room service: $3.95 charge for orders between midnight and 5 a.m.

RESTAURANTS
Seafood Shack: $8.95 fee for lunch at this beachy eatery covers an appetizer OR soup, one entrée and dessert—additional menu items are $3.50.

Johnny Rockets: $4.95 per person surcharge at lunch and dinner for basic burgers and fries.

150 Central Park: $35 per person surcharge at this upscale eatery, which serves a multi-course tasting menu dinner.

ENTERTAINMENT/ACTIVITIES
In-stateroom movie rental: $11.95-$12.99 per movie