Seasite CEO Jo Kling and Brad Nickel, our VP of Marketing, are back from their Oasis cruise with more raves and positive reviews. Jo, who traditionally favors more intimate-sized ships, was especially impressed by the attention to design detail usually found on luxury ships, including “triple plush” carpeting. Brad was blown away by the “phenomenal” entertainment, especially the AquaTheater water show with synchronized music and lights, high divers and acrobats. Brad’s little boy Zach was a big fan of the kid’s pool and enjoyed the carnival games along the Boardwalk.

Given the ship’s massive size and variety of facilities and venues, Both Brad and Jo expressed their wish for an easier way to communicate with, and keep track of, family and friends onboard. So I am happy to report that their wish will soon be granted when Royal Caribbean rolls out their “Royal Connect” onboard smart phone system.

The special Apple iPhones can be rented for $17.50 a voyage and will make it easier for passengers to stay in touch with each other onboard. They can be used to call and text other guests who have Royal Connect phones, call cabins, call onboard areas (like restaurants and spa) to make reservations, and find out the latest ship activities. And – another huge industry first – the phones will allow parents to keep track of their kids. How? The muster station wristbands that children wear will be enhanced with a passive electronic device that will track them in real time on their parents’ Royal Connect phones as they (the kids, not the parents!) wander the ship.

Royal Caribbean expects to have 800 Royal Connect iPhones on board the Oasis by January; and more apps might be added in addition to calling, texting, tracking and activity lists. Now there are even more good reasons to book an event at sea – parents can relax knowing their kids are safe and within reach, and meeting attendees can keep up with group events and stay in touch with each other during their cruise program.

Filed under: Cruise News