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March 11, 2024

Welcome aboard, fellow explorers! I’m Stefanie, a dedicated cruise blogger from Germany with over a decade of experience and nearly 300 nights spent at sea. My passion for cruising runs deep and I consider it a privilege to immerse myself in the wonders of maritime travel, each voyage weaving its own unique tale of discovery and adventure.

Recently, I embarked on Spectrum of the Seas, navigating the vibrant landscapes and cultural tapestry of Japan and Southeast Asia. Join me as I recount this extraordinary journey, exploring bustling cityscapes, serene shrines and exotic ports of call.

This voyage began with a dream – a dream of exploring distant shores and immersing in new cultures. What started as a getaway for my husband and me evolved over the years. Initially booked in 2019 for April 2021, our cruise was rescheduled to August 2023 due to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this temporary setback, my enthusiasm never waned. Before I knew it, my excitement about the cruise had formed a group of seven adventurous souls, including friends from the USA, Canada and Germany. This unexpected turn heightened our anticipation and our journey began with flights from Frankfurt, Toronto and Houston to Tokyo – the initial leg of an epic voyage years in the making.

Tokyo: A City of Contrasts and Culture

Upon landing in Tokyo, reunions ensued as we settled into the Hotel GrandBach Tokyo Ginza, our home for the next three nights. Nestled in the bustling Ginza district, our hotel served as the perfect base for exploring Japan’s capital. With convenient access to the city’s subway system, we eagerly ventured out to discover its iconic sights, from the towering Tokyo Tower to the historic Asakusa Temple and bustling Shibuya Crossing. Nearby subway stations Shimbashi and Ginza-Itchome made navigating the pulsating city a breeze.

Nestled amidst the bustling streets, Hie Shrine offers a tranquil escape steeped in history. Built in 1478, it features a striking stairway adorned with vibrant red torii gates, leading into ancient pathways. Ascending the stairway, we were enveloped by lush greenery and towering trees, immersing ourselves in a serene ambiance. The vibrant hues of the torii gates added a touch of mystical allure to the surroundings. Apart from its spiritual significance, the shrine offers cultural experiences like the traditional temizu cleansing ritual. From there, we ventured onward, eager to explore more of Tokyo’s iconic landmarks.

Tokyo Tower stood tall as an iconic landmark, built in 1958 and soaring to a height of 333 meters. From the observation deck, we were captivated by panoramic views revealing Tokyo’s sprawling urban landscape. Innovative glass floors provided the daring a chance to walk above the city. Taking the plunge, I ventured onto the glass floor, overcome by a sense of exhilaration as I gazed down at the bustling streets below.

Our journey led us to Asakusa Temple, a symbol of Tokyo’s spiritual heritage. Dating back to 645 AD, this ancient Buddhist temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry. Passing through the Kaminarimon gates, we were transported into a timeless atmosphere, surrounded by intricate architecture and enduring spiritual significance. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over Senso-ji Temple, we marveled at its magnificent structures and ornate details. Afterward, we wandered through the historic district of Asakusa, exploring the bustling Nakamise-dori, a lively street brimming with traditional shops and vendors, offering an opportunity to sample local delicacies and browse for unique souvenirs.

No visit to Tokyo would be complete without experiencing the vibrant chaos of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings globally. Spanning over 10 lanes of traffic and five major crosswalks, Shibuya Crossing epitomizes Tokyo’s dynamic spirit and liveliness, capable of accommodating thousands of pedestrians with each change of the traffic lights. We felt the city’s pulsating energy in every step as we navigated through the bustling crowds and vibrant neon lights. Nearby, we paid homage to the Hachiko statue, the legendary Akita dog, a beloved symbol of loyalty and affection.

As the sun began its descent, we ascended to Shibuya Sky, an observatory 229 meters high atop the Shibuya Scramble Square skyscraper. With its world-famous escalators whisking us to the top, we were treated to a panoramic view of Tokyo in all its splendor. The sunset cast a golden glow over the city, transitioning into a mesmerizing display of twinkling lights and bustling activity. It’s worth noting that tickets for this popular attraction sell out quickly, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

Overall, our time in Tokyo was filled with exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. As we bid farewell to this dynamic metropolis, we carried with us memories of the timeless charm of Tokyo’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Yokohama: Embarking on Spectrum of the Seas

Leaving behind the vibrant streets of Japan’s capital, our journey led us 30 kilometers south to Yokohama’s Daikoku Cruise Terminal. A pre-booked private shuttle bus ensured a hassle-free transfer for our group, setting the stage for our high-seas adventure.

Arriving at the terminal, the sight of the Yokohama Bay Bridge greeted us, its graceful arcs framing the skyline where Spectrum of the Seas awaited us. This Quantum Ultra-class cruise ship was constructed by Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany and delivered to Royal Caribbean International in April 2019. With an impressive length of 347 meters and 16 Decks accessible to passengers, it embodies luxury and sophistication. Accommodating up to 4,246 passengers at double occupancy, along with a dedicated crew of approximately 1550 members, the ship offers unparalleled comfort and service.

As an avid cruise blogger, eager to uncover hidden gems and share insights, I couldn’t wait to embark on this 12-night adventure through the waters of Asia, followed by an additional 4-night voyage. Stepping onto the gangway, we were greeted by the warm smiles of the crew, marking the inception of an extraordinary cruise filled with unexpected twists, unforgettable experiences and cherished new friendships.

Exploring the ship’s expansive interior, we discovered a vast array of offerings, each corner of Spectrum of the Seas promised something to delight everyone of us. After settling into our balcony staterooms on Deck 9, with stunning views of the Yokohama Bay Bridge, we eagerly toasted to the adventures ahead at the Pool Bar. Our excitment peaked, as we tried one of the ships standout features: The North Star, an observation capsule that offers unparalled views of the surrounding seascape from a height of 300ft. above sea level. Gliding high above the ship, we witnessed a breathtaking sunset over Yokohama’s skyline, painting the sky with vibrant hues as the sun dipped below the horizon.

A Change of Course: Navigating the Seas amidst Typhoon Lan

Shortly before we were about to set sail aboard the Spectrum of the Seas, we had received news of an approaching typhoon, threatening to disrupt our carefully planned itinerary. The adverse weather conditions necessitated a cancellation of ports of call in Shimizu (Mt Fuji) and Osaka. The Captain and crew swiftly devised a new course, avoiding the path of the storm and ensuring a smooth and secure voyage for all on board. As Typhoon Lan made landfall in Osaka on August 15, the wisdom of our Captain’s decision became evident. 

Day at Sea: Captain’s Invitation to the Bridge of Spectrum of the Seas

On our 2nd Day at Sea, I was honored to be personally invited by Captain Wu to visit the bridge. Stepping onto the bridge, I was immediately struck by the state-of-the-art technology and the commanding view of the surrounding Pacific Ocean. It was truly an unforgettable experience to stand alongside the captain and his crew, witnessing firsthand the skill and expertise required to navigate the open seas. The Captain Wu graciously shared insights into the intricacies of navigating a massive cruise ship, from charting our course to coordinating with port authorities, including the challenges posed by Typhoon Lan.

Kumamoto: Spectrum of the Seas Maiden Call

Despite the initial disappointment of missing out on our scheduled visits to Shimizu (Mt. Fuji) and Osaka due to Typhoon Lan, this change led us to the unexpected port of call Kumamoto. Our arrival at Yatsushiro Port marked a significant milestone for both passengers and crew alike, as we became part of the ship’s inaugural visit to this historic city. Nestled on Kyushu Island’s southern coast, the city in Kumamoto Prefecture welcomed us to explore its rich history and culture. The atmosphere during our arrival was marked by festivities and warm hospitality from the local community.

Kagoshima: Japan’s dynamic Southern Gem

From Kumamoto, our voyage continued southward to Kagoshima, our final port of call in Japan, on a scorching hot and sunny day. The breathtaking sight of Sakurajima, an active volcano rising from the azure waters of Kagoshima Bay, greeted us as we approached the shore. This majestic landmark offered a glimpse into Japan’s geological wonders and myriad of attractions for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. As our ship sailed away in the evening from Kagoshima, leaving behind the towering silhouette of Sakurajima volcano during sunset, we reflected on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories we had gathered during our time in Japan.

Days at Sea: Adrenaline-pounding Excitement at SeaPlex

Our journey from Japan to Hong Kong was marked by two Days at Sea offering ample time to indulge in a plethora of onboard activities. We found an extra layer of fun filled with boundless laughter and excitement at SeaPlex. As the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, this expansive venue transforms throughout the day, providing a variety of entertainment for guests of all ages. We raced around the deck in bumper cars, weaving through the neon-lit course with exhilarating speed and dodging obstacles with skill and precision. The adrenaline-pounding excitement peaked as we joined forces with fellow passengers for a game of Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z. Navigating through the glowing maze, we strategically ducked behind barriers, wielding state-of-the-art laser guns and employing tactical teamwork to outwit our opponents.

Hong Kong: A Fusion of East and West

its iconic skyline and bustling culture. Upon arrival, our ship docked at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, offering breathtaking views of the Hong Kong skyline set against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour.

That day, our group divided, with some opting for independent exploration while others joined a ship-organized shore excursion. Those venturing independently utilized the complimentary shuttle service to Hong Kong Island, arriving at Admiralty station (MTR) to secure 24-hour “Adult Tourist Day Passes” for unlimited access to public transportation.

From Central’s towering skyscrapers to Kowloon’s bustling markets, Hong Kong dazzled all of us with its fusion of Eastern traditions and Western influences. While some roamed the streets and savored culinary delights, others enjoyed the ship’s organized shore excursion, exploring Victoria Peak, Stanley Market, and the fishing village of Aberdeen.

Afterwards, we regrouped at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Park. Here, amidst passive amenities like a central lawn, water garden and fountain plaza, we captured pictures of the ship and skyline. Best of all, this scenic spot was free of charge, providing the perfect setting for capturing final memories of our visit before sailing away from Hong Kong.

Day at Sea: Immersive Entertainment and Spectacular Views at Two70

With its breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes, Two70 quickly became one of our favorite areas onboard. Here, we enjoyed a diverse range of activites, including Game Shows, Virtual and Live Concerts, Meet & Greet with Senior Officers, Silent Parties and Movie Nights.

During this Day at Sea, we had the pleasure of watching “The Silk Road”, an original production created by Royal Caribbean International exclusively for Two70. This visually stunning show takes audiences on a journey along the historic trade route, featuring dazzling choreography, innovative technology and captivating storytelling, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of the performers and production team. A troupe of agile Roboscreens comes to life in perfect sync with music, while the signature Vistarama technology transforms the 270-degree panoramic windows into a mesmerizing projection surface.

Nha Trang: Sun, Sand and Cultural Exploration

From Hong Kong, we set sail to the sun-drenched shores of Nha Trang, a tropical paradise situated on the southern coast of Vietnam renowned for its warm climate and picturesque location along the South China Sea. As a tender port, Nha Trang offers visitors scenic access to its coastal area since cruise ships cannot dock directly at the pier. Instead, passengers are ferried ashore on smaller boats, known as tenders. Here, our group once again divided. Some opted for a ship’s shore excursion, while others chose to explore independently.

Those who ventured independently simply used the tender boat to reach the shore, originally planned to spend the day at VinPearl Island, an amusement park, unfortunately the Cable Car remained out of operation. Instead, they made their way to a nearby beach, next to Bach Dang Park. The park features cultural and historical landmarks, including statues honoring figures such as General Tran Hung Dao, a Vietnamese military leader from the 13th century. At the public beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, they spent the day soaking up the sun, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Meanwhile, participants on the Nha Trang City Highlights excursion visited the ancient Cham Po Nagar Towers, a craft village and a local show at the Nha Trang Center, experiencing local culture firsthand. Their excursion concluded at Happy Beach, a local beach club, where they could sip on fresh coconut water and savor the seaside beauty of Nha Trang.

Phu My: Ho Chi Minh City Adventure

Leaving Nha Trang behind, our ship docked the following morning at Phu My port, the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Despite the distance of 1.5 hours from the city center, we eagerly embarked on a shore excursion to explore Ho Chi Minh City with its French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. Welcomed by our knowledgeable tour guide directly at the port, our journey to the city began with anticipation.

Upon arrival, we commenced our exploration with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, nestled amidst tranquil gardens. This centuries-old sanctuary is dedicated to Ngọc Hoàng, the Jade Emperor, a revered figure in Vietnamese folklore and Taoist mythology. Our guide then led us on an insightful tour of the National History Museum, skillfully navigating us through Vietnam’s rich tapestry of history, spanning from the Cham and Khmer dynasties to the Dong-Son civilization.

Following this immersive cultural experience, we embarked on an exhilarating Cyclo Tour, providing us with a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling streets. Gliding past iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, historic Central Post Office and the Reunification Palace, we immersed ourselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by an orchestra of honking horns and revving engines.

After indulging in a traditional Vietnamese lunch, we went to the Ben Thanh Market, where vendors peddled a dizzying array of goods, from handcrafted souvenirs to exotic spices and textiles. We enjoyed every moment of our time in Ho Chi Minh City before heading back to the port in Phu My.

Day at Sea: Serenity at the Solarium

From adrenaline-pumping activities like RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator and Flowrider surf simulator to serene retreats like the Vitality Spa and Solarium, there was no shortage of ways to relax and recharge onboard Spectrum of the Seas on a Day at Sea. We enjoyed the Solarium, which is an adults-only oasis featuring a pool, whirlpools and comfortable loungers. The glass canopy allows natural light to filter in, creating a bright and airy ambiance to take in panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

But the Solarium holds a hidden gem: access to the bridge wings observation decks, located on Deck 13. Here, we gained a vantage point akin to that of the Captain’s perspective from the bridge below, allowing us to behold the ship in all its splendor from a privileged position.

Singapore: Gardens by the Bay and Consecutive Cruising

As our 12-night cruise drew to a close, we arrived in Singapore, greeted by its futuristic skyline and cosmopolitan charm. Here, we spent a magical day exploring the iconic Gardens by the Bay, a horticultural wonderland spanning over 100 hectares of reclaimed land.

Our adventure began with a visit to the Cloud Forest, an otherworldly landscape housed within a spectacular glass dome and featuring Avatar: The Experience. Stepping inside, we felt like being transported to the mystical world of Pandora, surrounded by lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls. This immersive experience offered a mesmerizing journey through diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to high-altitude mountain ranges. We ascended to the top of the towering indoor waterfall, the centerpiece of the exhibit and encountered an array of rare plants and exotic flowers along the way. 

Next, we ventured into the Flower Dome, a tranquil oasis showcasing plants from five continents across nine different gardens. As we wandered through the expansive conservatory, we were greeted by a riot of colors and fragrances, from vibrant orchids and delicate roses to towering baobab trees and sculptural succulents. These gardens represent various ecosystems and climates, each meticulously curated to reflect the diverse plant life found across our planet’s continents and seasons.

For a bird’s-eye view of the gardens, we ascended to the OCBC Skyway, a suspended walkway offering panoramic vistas of the SuperTree Grove. Walking amidst the towering SuperTrees, we felt as though we had stepped into a futuristic wonderland. At the SuperTree Observatory, located atop one of the tallest SuperTrees, we marveled at the sweeping views of the city skyline, Marina Bay Sands and the lush greenery of Gardens by the Bay.

As we soaked in the panoramic views, we couldn’t help but admire Singapore’s dedication to sustainability and urban green spaces, which continue to captivate visitors worldwide. With memories from the 12-night voyage fresh in our minds and excitement for the upcoming 4-night Cultural Immersion Sailing to Malaysia, we headed back to the port, ready to embark on the next leg of our Back-to-Back (B2B) cruise aboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Port Klang: Gateway to Kuala Lumpur

As our voyage continued, we found ourselves docking in Port Klang, the principal gateway to Malaysia’s capital city, located about an hour’s drive away. From here, we went on an excursion to Kuala Lumpur, where towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks coexist in harmony.

In Kuala Lumpur, our tour began with a photo stop at the King’s Palace, also known as the National Palace. Though not open to the public, this regal residence of the Malaysian monarch showcases stunning architecture amidst lush greenery, offering a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs.

We then visited the Independence Square, adorned with picturesque Mughal buildings and bustling with activity in preparation for the upcoming Merdeka Day celebrations on August 31st. As we strolled through the area, we couldn’t help but notice the buildings adorned with the Malaysian flag, the festive spirit palpable.

Our shore excursion then took us to the KL Tower, standing tall at a height of 421 meters. We admired its impressive stature and took in the surrounding cityscape. Afterwards, we visited the Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world. We first ascended to the Skybridge, spanning between the towers and offering panoramic vistas of Kuala Lumpur. Continuing our ascent, we journeyed up to the 86th floor, where we were treated to even more stunning views of the city skyline.

During our return journey to Port Klang, we explored the remarkable Batu Caves, a sacred Hindu site nestled within limestone caves. We climbed the vibrantly colored stairs, each step representing a spiritual journey. With 272 steps leading to the main cave temple, the climb offered not only a spiritual journey but also a physical one. Along the way, we admired the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan and had playful encounters with monkeys. It’s essential to note that for Batu Caves, ladies are required to cover their knees.

Penang: Pearl of the Orient

Our next port of call brought us to the enchanting island of Penang. As our ship docked in Georgetown, the island’s capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, we were greeted by a tapestry of colors, sounds and flavors. Initially, our plans were centered around soaking up the sun on the shores of Batu Ferringhi Beach, where turquoise waters meet golden sands in a picturesque embrace. However, nature had other plans, surprising us with a rare rainy day during our journey. Despite the weather’s whims, our day in Penang captivated us with its charming blend of colonial architecture, lush landscapes and vibrant street art scene.

Final Day at Sea: Behind-the-Scenes Galley Tour

From Penang, we set sail back to Singapore through the Strait of Malacca. This historic waterway connects the Pacific Ocean to the east with the Indian Ocean to the west and is known for its significance in global trade as part of the Maritime Silk Road.

Throughout our cruise, we savored a culinary extravaganza, indulging in a diverse array of dining options that tantalized our taste buds. Specialty Restaurants like Wonderland transported us to a whimsical world of imaginative dishes with playful presentations, while at Chops Grille, we savored perfectly cooked steaks and succulent seafood in an elegant setting onboard. 

During our final Say at Sea, I had the privilege of joining the Executive Chef for an exclusive tour of the galley, offering insights into the inner workings of the ship’s expansive dining operation and the meticulous planning behind every dish served onboard. As I observed the chefs and sous chefs diligently preparing meals with precision and care, the galley buzzed with activity from the clatter of pots and pans to the massive ovens. This behind-the-scenes glimpse underscored the culinary mastery that defines dining aboard the Spectrum of the Seas, offering exceptional experiences to thousands of guests and crew members alike.

Singapore: Disembarking Spectrum of the Seas

As our cruise drew to a final close, we bid farewell to Spectrum of the Seas and the enchanting ports of call that have welcomed us along the way. After disembarking in Singapore, we made our way to Changi Airport, a world-renowned hub of innovation and efficiency.

Amidst the bustling terminals and gleaming concourses, we encountered the awe-inspiring Jewel Changi Airport with the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Its graceful cascade from the ceiling creates a mesmerizing spectacle of light and water, marking a fitting conclusion to our journey through Japan and Southeast Asia. As we departed from Singapore and soared through the clouds en route to Frankfurt, Houston and Toronto, I found myself reflecting on the countless memories we had gathered throughout our voyage. It was a journey filled with unforgettable experiences, new friendships and moments of pure joy, reminding me once again of the transformative power of travel.

Don’t miss more updates, news and reviews about Royal Caribbean International on Cruising Journal.

Stefanie Tietze-Haeberlein

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