Public Areas & Facilities

Precursor of vessels to come, Sovereign of the Seas was the largest cruise ship afloat when it was introduced in 1988. Two sister ships followed, and, although they all share the same layout, subtle differences exist in size and the number of passengers they carry. Sovereign received a major refurbishment in late 2004, with the addition of a new Miami Beach-style Latin club, and a Johnny Rockets diner. Other improvements include an expanded spa and enlarged areas for children and teens. Balconies were also added to 62 junior suites.

The futuristic atrium, combined with the abundant use of marble and gleaming metal, virtually assured the Sovereign-class ships design longevity. The addition of rock-climbing walls and other features found on subsequent Royal Caribbean vessels, plus sparkling new interior colors, belie the ships' age.

Restaurants

Two formal dining rooms serve breakfast and lunch in open seatings and dinner in two assigned seatings. The Windjammer casual Lido buffet serves three meals a day, including a casual dinner option. In addition, Sovereign has Sorrento's Pizza and Johnny Rockets in the Windjammer, as well as Latte-Tudes, a patisserie serving specialty coffees and Ben & Jerry's ice cream.

What Works & What Doesn't

The hottest clubs at sea are Latin-flavored, and Sovereign of the Seas got one during its late-2004 rejuvenation that also saw the addition of the Johnny Rockets diner. Unfortunately, some remnants of late-1980s design are difficult to overcome, including few balconies and low ceilings in the dining rooms. The rock-climbing walls are certainly impressive enough, but they really look like an afterthought, and their awkward position spoils the view overlooking the stern from the Viking Crown Lounge.

Accommodations

Layout: Cabins are comfortable, but standard ocean-view and inside categories are a tight squeeze for more than two occupants. When these ships were conceived, staterooms were viewed as primarily for sleeping and changing clothes, so even the suites are on the small size by current standards. Every cabin has adequate closet and drawer-shelf storage. The added personal space provided by the balconies in suites and junior suites are a real plus.

Amenities: Light woods, mirrored accents, a vanity-desk, TV, personal safe, and a hair dryer are typical Sovereign-class features in all categories. Bathrooms have shampoo and bath gel.

Suites: All suites and junior suites have a minibar, balcony, and bathtub.

Good to Know: Third and fourth Pullman beds are found in a variety of stateroom categories, as are connecting staterooms -- a plus for families that require more room to spread out. Six staterooms are designed for wheelchair accessibility.

Category	Size (square feet)
Royal Suite	670
Owner's/Grand Suite	446/382
Jr. Suite	264
Superior/Standard Ocean View	157/122
Interior	119

Favorites

Teen-Friendly: Since her 2004 makeover, Sovereign of the Seas sports a teen disco, computer room, private outdoor deck space, and no-adults-allowed lounge.

Best Nautical Spaces: The Schooner Bar, Royal Caribbean's signature piano bar with seagoing flair (models of sailing ships and even a smoky tar scent set the tone).

Our Favorite Spot for a Nightcap: The Viking Crown Lounge is not only our favorite place for catching the sunset; we also like the space for the last drink of the day.

Best Way to Stay Connected: In addition to an Internet Center, Wi-Fi hotspots are conveniently located in public rooms, and cell phone access at sea is a hot new feature.