Legend of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, has 18 guest decks, 2,805 staterooms for up to 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew. It is the first Royal Caribbean Icon class super ship to sail in European waters, promising a family holiday across Spain, France and Italy.
20 insider tips for a perfect cruise
1. Pick 'n' mix: don't attempt to do everything. Go through Cruise Compass – either the paper version or on the Royal Caribbean app – each morning and create itineraries.
2. Schedule regular get-togethers: whether dinner, a show or quiz night, the enormous Pearl on the Promenade Deck makes a perfect meeting point.
3. Exhaust grouchy teens: older kids will love Thrill Island for the Crown's Edge ropes and zipline experience 154ft above the ocean, FlowRider surf simulator, Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, and Adrenaline Peak's climbing wall.
4. Take little 'uns to Surfside: fun, fun, fun, with splashy pools especially for small people and space for mum and dad to chill within viewing distance.
5. One for all ages: the Garden Of Giants puppet show, featuring caterpillar Pip and friend Sophie, is 20 minutes of pure joy for everyone.
6. Free treats: search out Sprinkles for soft-serve ice cream on tap – better still, it's complimentary.
7. Spa treatment: stressed out from packing and travelling? Head for the blissful Vitality at Sea Spa. 'A relaxing Aroma Spa Seaweed Massage is perfect for soothing tense muscles,' says assistant spa manager Mathi.
8. Plan B: go find Melissa at the Rye & Bean café and bar. 'The Ketel One Espresso Martini will perk you up.'
9. Finding your cabin: the clever lift menu will get you close, but noting a distinctive artwork near 'home' will help, too.
10. Lost track of time? In lifts you'll see a big cover on the floor with the day of the week on it, brilliant…
11. Pick your place: Legend offers 29 types of accommodation. It all comes down to your budget but the dream ticket has to be the three-storey Ultimate Family Townhouse, sleeping eight and with a cinema room. Lush.
12. Check what's included: avoid surprises by checking when and where gratuities, service charges and taxes are applied.
13. Take time at dinner time: Legend has most tastes covered with 28 eateries included in your fare – plus speciality restaurants which are extra.
14. Celebrate: dress up for fine dining and exquisite cocktails at the Hollywoodland Supper Club.
15. Let the train take the strain: head to the Royal Railway Legend Station, a 90-minute dining experience that simulates an immersive train journey along Marco Polo's ancient Silk Route.
16. Showtime: don't miss the brilliant Charlie And The Chocolate Factory theatre show. It's enjoyable for the whole family – and it's included.
17. Shockwave: another must-see is the high-energy AquaTheater show. Top tip: hang out by the Aquatheater in the afternoon to watch rehearsals if you can't book a seat for this popular show.
18. Go back to the 80s: catch The Wild Boys – this brilliant UK band plays all your faves in the Music Hall.
19. Head for Central Park: Legend captain Sindre Borsheim told me he enjoys a calming stroll among the 30,000-plus real trees and plants. Perfect for winding down before bed.
20. For ultimate group fun, Mark on the Legend entertainment team recommends Legend Quest. You play as a team on your phone, scanning QR codes, exploring, completing challenges, maybe winning prizes…
Essentials
Legend Of The Seas' summer sailings depart from Barcelona, Spain and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, calling at destinations across Spain, France, and Italy. A three-night Western Mediterranean Cruise starts at £832pp, departing October 28 from Rome (Civitavecchia).
