As more cruises return to international waters, we were lucky enough to spend seven nights on-board Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas on a Greek Isles sailing. The excitement was almost palpable, with sprawling crystal-clear waters ahead and beautiful sunsets on the horizon, here’s our guide to spending 24 hours on-board Jewel of the Seas.
Prior to embarkation
While preparing to set sail, there are a few documents required in order to board Jewel of the Seas in Cyprus. These include:
- Proof of vaccination
- PCR test results for unvaccinated guests aged 12-17 years old
- Cyprus Flight Pass
- Passport or European ID card
- Health Questionnaire
- Visa, if applicable
- Proof of residency, if required
Find out more about Royal Caribbean’s health and safety protocols and requirements on our Cruise Hub.
14:00 – Embarkation
The embarkation process is very organised, thanks to the Royal Caribbean app. Download it in advance of your departure to check-in and book your embarkation slot. The staff were helpful, friendly and professional, carrying out antigen tests prior to embarking.
All guests aged 2+ are required to take a rapid antigen test (provided by the cruise line) at the terminal and guests must receive a negative result in order to sail. There’s also wellness screenings at the port and a chance to show your required documentation checks.
14:45 – 15:00 Welcome on-board
The ship was clean and well-maintained, with hand sanitiser readily available and information on protocols signposted throughout the ship. The décor is more of a traditional style, giving a nod to a golden era of cruising, whilst also evolving with the times and using modern design concepts in different areas of the ship. Once we’d taken in our surroundings, it was time to drop our bags off in the cabin.
15:15 – 16:15 Settling in the cabin
We got to our cabin and made use of the extensive storage in our balcony cabin. The décor continued with the more traditional theme and the cabin could quite comfortably sleep three. The cabin came equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.
There was a Royal Caribbean face mask left on the bed, ready for use on-board along with towels folded into animal shapes.
16:30 – 18:30 Entertainment and pre-dinner drinks
The best way to kickstart your time on-board Jewel of the Seas is with a delicious cocktail in the Safari lounge, the ambience is brilliant, we indulged in some musical stylings of a resident DJ, before heading over to our pre-booked dining slot.
18:45 – 20:00 Dinner
After a pre-dinner drink, it was time to enjoy a hearty meal at the Tides restaurant. Our dining slot was pre-booked via the Royal Caribbean app. The menu was fantastic, with plenty to choose from. The menu in the main dining room changes each night. Some tables had reserve signs on them to maintain social distancing but the dining room never felt empty. Lots of choices for dietary requirements, including catering for a gluten-free diet.
20:15-23:00- Evening Entertainment
Following a delicious meal, the perfect way to round off an evening on Jewel of the Seas is to catch a show at the Coral Theatre, Tango Buenos Aires is highly recommended. We followed this up with a nightcap and taking in the music of the pianist in Centrum.
07:00 – 08:00 Breakfast
Following a brilliant nights sleep in the super comfortable bed, it was time for breakfast in the main dining room. With so many choices, it goes without saying that a few different things were sampled, from a full-English to continental pastries.
08:00 – 17:00 Excursions at port
With just one day at sea, the joy of the 2021 summer sailings on-board Jewel of the Seas is being able to take out shore excursions with Royal Caribbean to experience and take in all the history and culture the Greek Isles have to offer.
With a plethora of on-board entertainment, eateries and bars, there’s never a moment that will leave you wondering what to do on Jewel of the Seas. We had such a brilliant time on-board, we’re already planning our next getaway on-board.
HI There, i’ve read you have to wear masks in all areas indoors and outdoors unless eating or drinking (swimming or doing sweaty activities) does this mean you cannot sit/lie in the sun without a mask?