Europe and Mediterranean: Hamburg and Rotterdam Cruise
Royal Caribbean®
Really gain the historic knowledge when you immerse yourself on this five-night cruise aboard the Independence of the Seas®. Hamburg is Germany's most cosmopolitan metropolis. Come here to stand before architectural landmarks, like the towering neo-renaissance Hamburg Rathaus and the baroque Church of St. Michael. Cruise to Germany to experience the lively restaurant and bar scene along the River Elbe, and take in the maritime scenery of Hamburg Harbor, Europe's third-busiest port. Then, Rotterdam is Europe's biggest port and one of the Netherlands' great surprises. Hit hard by World War II, the city was rebuilt gradually from the 1950s to the '70s - today, it's a lively, thriving metropolis that's home to a diverse, multicultural population.
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Sailing Itinerary
Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.
Overview
Southampton is a port city on England’s south coast. It’s home to the SeaCity Museum, with an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Nearby, Southampton City Art Gallery specialises in modern British art. Solent Sky Museum features vintage aircraft like the iconic Spitfire. Tudor House & Garden displays artifacts covering over 800 years of history, including a penny-farthing bike.
Overview
What are the first things that come to mind when you think of Hamburg? Probably the city's stunning location on the Elbe and Alster Rivers, the colorful activity in the St. Pauli entertainment district, unforgettable musicals, a night at the theater, Michaelis Church (colloquially "der Michel") or the impressive harbor. Hamburg, 1,200 years old, is loved both for its contemporary scene as well as for its cultural offerings. In between traditional trading houses and renowned theaters, the latest trends are always cropping up. Hamburg lies open to many streams of influence. With city-state traditions reaching back for centuries, it has always played a special political and cultural role. Today, as a key commercial hub, an international harbor and a media and cultural center, the metropolis on the Elbe River with its one million inhabitants is once again pursuing ancient traditions with typically Hanseatic aplomb. This comes as no surprise: Germany's second largest city offers a high quality of life and international flair. In Hamburg, the word "boredom" is unknown.
Overview
Nowadays Rotterdam is a vital part of the economy of the Netherlands. The Port of Rotterdam, the largest port in the world with a total throughput of about 300 million metric tons a year provides a solid base for industry in and around the Rotterdam area. Its population is about 575000, which makes it one of the largest cities in the Netherlands, but the number of people that work in the Rotterdam area or are otherwise economically dependent of it exceeds that number by far. The density of population is among the highest in the Netherlands, exceeding 4000 per square kilometer. Shipping, storage and forwarding are of course among the most important activities in the region, but the port of Rotterdam has also created a large chemical industry, which is fully dependent upon the transport facilities for the inflow of crude oil and the shipping of the various refined end products. Large petrochemical plants have sprung up, especially on the south bank of the Maas. These plants are in operation 24 hours a day. The development of Europoort ('Euro gate') started in 1957. A large complex of ports and industrial areas was created between Rotterdam and the entry to the North Sea. When more space was needed, the Maasvlakte ('Maas Flats') was created. By means of dikes, dams and sand deposits the coast line was altered to include many square kilometers of newly created land, where the Petroleum Harbors, container terminals, ore terminals and the Maasvlakte power plant are located. An interesting feature is the 'disaster area', a training complex where fire brigades train to cope with large-scale industrial accidents. The complex includes a grounded tanker that is set on fire several times a day. The name Europoort suggests that Rotterdam wanted to become the gateway to Europe. By 1963 this suggestion had become outdated, because in that year Rotterdam could claim to be the largest port in the world, a record that it still holds. In fact, the Berge Stahl, a 365000 ton ore carrier, is fully dependent on the port of Rotterdam, since this is the only port on the European continent that this ship (with its 23m/75ft draught) can access. After the flood in 1953 a large project was initiated to prevent such floodings in the future. This project, the 'Delta plan', involved stronger and higher dikes and numerous flood barriers. The latest of those flood barriers to be completed was the storm surge barrier in the Nieuwe Waterweg near Hoek van Holland. Two enormous doors mounted on swing arms can be used to close off the Nieuwe Waterweg, should storm and high water require so in order to protect the country from flooding. Normally the doors are open, so as not to impede the flow of ships through the Nieuwe Waterweg. Building and development have become a way of life for Rotterdam. The city has continued to grow, and it shows no signs of slowing down. And although this constant increase of population, urbanization and development all breed their own problems, Rotterdam is ready for the next millennium. As the economic heart of the Netherlands, with a population heading towards 600000, it had better be ready.
Overview
Southampton is a port city on England’s south coast. It’s home to the SeaCity Museum, with an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Nearby, Southampton City Art Gallery specialises in modern British art. Solent Sky Museum features vintage aircraft like the iconic Spitfire. Tudor House & Garden displays artifacts covering over 800 years of history, including a penny-farthing bike.
Onboard the Independence of the Seas
Independence of the Seas
Year Built: 2008
Year Refurbished: 2018
Double Occupancy Capacity: 3858
Independence of the Seas® is giving the Caribbean an injection of new adventures on getaways. Hang ten on our Flowrider® surf simulator. Go head to head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag clash in Battle for Planet Z(SM). Score an awesome time and game-changing grub at Playmakers(SM) Sports Bar & Arcade. Come Seek the Royal Caribbean®.
Activities & Services (included in cruise)
Rock Climbing Wall
- Card Room
- Disco/Nightclub
- Movies
- Theater/Show Lounge
- Fitness Center
- Sauna/Steam Room
- Ice Skating
- Miniature Golf
- Pool - Children's
- Pool - Outdoor
- Pool - Indoor
- Rock-Climbing Wall
- Sports Facilities
- Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
- FlowRider® Surf Simulator
- Golf Simulator
- Boxing Ring
- Laser Tag
- Art Gallery
- Bars/Lounges
- Library
- Children's Indoor Play Area
- Children's Outdoor Play Area
- Educational Classes
- Educational Programs
- Organized Age Specific Activities
- Teen Center or Disco
- Teen Programs
- Business Center
- Concierge Desk
- Conference Center
- Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
- Elevators
- Safe Deposit Boxes
Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)
Full-Service Spa
- Casino
- Game Arcade
- Beauty Salon
- Fitness Classes
- Full-Service Spa
- Spa Services/Massage
- Educational Programs
- Escape Room: The Observation
- Internet Center
- Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
- Infirmary/Medical Center
- Wedding/Vow Renewal
Main Dining Room
Main Dining
Main Dining Room: Sweeping, multi-level ambience, world-class cuisine and extraordinary personal service from a dedicated wait staff. Royal Caribbean’s main dining room serves exceptional, multi-course meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Izumi
Specialty Dining
Chops Grille℠: In Royal Caribbean's signature steakhouse, savor five incredible courses paired with wine from one of California's most iconic wineries, the Wagner family vineyards, renowned for fine pinot noir and chardonnay and revered for their Caymus cabernet. From smoked duck salad to the crème Brule, learn how each wine was selected to enhance your enjoyment of the dish. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Chef's Table: A once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience – join guests in an exclusive enclave to savor a five-course, gourmet menu specially prepared and presented by the Chef de Cuisine. Every course pairs with a wine chosen to enhance your enjoyment of the dish. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Fish & Ships℠: Order up batter-fried favorites at Fish & Ships℠ — the new seafood spot that’s just within splashing distance of the pool. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Giovanni's Table: A casual Italian trattoria with indoor and al fresco seating, Giovanni's Table offers rustic dishes with a contemporary flair, including toasted herb foccacia, pastas, braised meat dishes and stews, served family-style. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Izumi Hibachi & Sushi: The traditional Japanese dishes at Izumi will impress you with pure, delicate flavors, freshness of ingredients and impeccable presentation. Choose from sushi rolls, sashimi and more. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Johnny Rockets®: Get the family together for good old-fashioned hamburgers and fries at Johnny Rockets—complete with authentic 1950s décor, a menu filled with all-American favorites and a jukebox at every table. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade: With a menu of game-day favorites and icy-cold draughts on tap, anything you order at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade is a winner. And while you're working on a signature Playmakers Burger or the five-scoop Touchdown Sundae, you can catch your home team live on dozens of screens or face off against your friends in the arcade.
Sugar Beach℠: If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, nothing beats Sugar Beach℠. This indulgent oasis is home to all your favorite confections – plus a few tantalizing surprises. Fill a grab bag to maximum candy capacity, or treat yourself to fluffy cupcakes and other tasty treats.
Windjammer
Casual Dining
Café Promenade: The multi-level Royal Promenade is the heart of our ships – and the best spot for people watching. Pick a table with a view at Café Promenade, serving Starbucks or illy coffee, snacks, pastries and sandwiches throughout the day and into the night – so you can enjoy the action when you please.
Sorrento's Pizza: For an authentic New York pizzeria experience, head to Sorrento's for fully-loaded pies right out of the oven. Sample rotating creations from chorizo to Hawaiian to Pizza Florentine – with classic cheese and pepperoni always on call.
Windjammer: A culinary destination loaded with an array of delicious food for every meal and snack time – all with spectacular views and a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Browse multiple serving stations featuring pasta, made-to-order omelets, global cuisine, salads, soups, sandwiches, meat-carving, and tons of tantalizing desserts.
Room Service: Room service is available 24 hours a day (a convenience charge applies to each order placed).
Disclaimer regarding ship dining
Interior staterooms include a wide array of amenities for your whole family to enjoy.
Category: 1Q
- Extra square footage at a great value
- In-stateroom window with views of the Royal Promenade
- Perfect for people-watching
Beds
- Two Royal King beds (each can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds
Size
- Stateroom: 340 sq. ft.
Category: 1R
- High-occupancy room perfect for larger families
- Separate hideaway bunk area
Beds
- Two Royal King beds (each can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds
Size
- Stateroom: 340 sq. ft.
Category: 2T
- Interior stateroom with a view
- In-stateroom window with views of the Royal Promenade
- Perfect for people-watching
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
Size
- Stateroom: 153 sq. ft.
Category: CP
- Connects to the room next door
- Get "double" the Promenade views and space when booking both
- Great for families
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
Size
- Stateroom: 153 sq. ft.
Category: 1V
- Our most budget-friendly option
- A cozy and comfortable retreat
- Perfect for long naps after an adventure-filled day
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft
Category: 2V
- Our most budget-friendly option
- A cozy and comfortable retreat
- Perfect for long naps after an adventure-filled day
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft
Category: 3V
- Our most budget-friendly option
- A cozy and comfortable retreat
- Perfect for long naps after an adventure-filled day
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft
Category: 4V
- Our most budget-friendly option
- A cozy and comfortable retreat
- Perfect for long naps after an adventure-filled day
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft
Category: ZI
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Category: ZQ
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Spectacular sights and amazing views from the comfort of your stateroom.
Category: 1K
- Even more square footage
- Dedicated bunk bed area
- Perfect for families or groups
Beds
- Two Royal King beds (each can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds
Size
- Stateroom: 293 sq. ft.
Category: 1L
- Floor-to-ceiling in-stateroom window
- Soak in 180-degree views
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
Category: 3M
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Your very own in-stateroom window
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 211 sq. ft.
Category: 4M
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Your very own in-stateroom window
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 211 sq. ft.
Category: 1N
- Budget-friendly with a view of the ocean
- Your very own in-stateroom window
- Great for families with small children
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft.
Category: 2N
- Budget-friendly with a view of the ocean
- Your very own in-stateroom window
- Great for families with small children
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft.
Category: 3N
- Budget-friendly with a view of the ocean
- Your very own in-stateroom window
- Great for families with small children
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft.
Category: 4N
- Budget-friendly with a view of the ocean
- Your very own in-stateroom window
- Great for families with small children
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 162 sq. ft.
Category: YO
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Category: YQ
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Enjoy the ambiance of our neighborhood balcony staterooms that overlook the Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods or take in breathtaking views from your Ocean View balcony stateroom.
Category: 1B
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Private balcony with chairs for those pristine ocean views
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 207 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
Category: 2B
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Private balcony with chairs for those pristine ocean views
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 207 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
Category: 3B
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Private balcony with chairs for those pristine ocean views
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 207 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
Category: 4B
- Extra square footage at a great value
- Perfect if you need that little extra space
- Private balcony with chairs for those pristine ocean views
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 207 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
Category: CB
- Balcony stateroom that connects to the room next door
- Get "double" the space by booking both
- Great for families
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
Category: 1D
- Our standard balcony stateroom
- Pristine views of the ocean
- Private balcony with chairs
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 53 sq. ft.
Category: 2D
- Our standard balcony stateroom
- Pristine views of the ocean
- Private balcony with chairs
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 53 sq. ft.
Category: 4D
- Our standard balcony stateroom
- Pristine views of the ocean
- Private balcony with chairs
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 53 sq. ft.
Category: 5D
- Our standard balcony stateroom
- Pristine views of the ocean
- Private balcony with chairs
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One fold-down Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 188 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 53 sq. ft.
Category: XB
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Category: XQ
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Exclusive experiences, inclusive amenities, luxury accommodations and more.
Category: RS
- Extra-large suite with expansive square footage
- Panoramic views with a large balcony
- Living area with baby grand piano
Beds
- One King-size bed
- One double sofa bed
Size
- Stateroom: 1,400 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 249 sq. ft.
Category: OS
- Larger and more luxurious than our one bedroom Grand Suites
- Put the extra square footage to use as you kick back and relax
Beds
- One King-size bed
- One double sofa bed
Size
- Stateroom: 624 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 160 sq. ft.
Category: GT
- High-occupancy two bedroom suite
- Perfect for groups or families
Beds
- Two Royal King beds (each can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms up to 6 guests
- Two fold-down Pullman beds in staterooms up to 8 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 525 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 208 sq. ft.
Category: GS
- Ample space, including a living room and full bathroom with a tub
- Private balcony with seating
- "Grandest" suite in the fleet
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed
Size
- Stateroom: 396 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 89 sq. ft.
Category: J3
- Our standard suite for luxury
- Private balcony with two chairs
- Live the suite life on a budget
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 299 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 65 sq. ft.
Category: J4
- Our standard suite for luxury
- Private balcony with two chairs
- Live the suite life on a budget
Beds
- One Royal King bed (can convert into two twin-size beds)
- One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
Size
- Stateroom: 299 sq. ft.
- Balcony: 65 sq. ft.
Category: VP
- Floor-to-ceiling wrap-around panoramic windows
- Dedicated bunk bed area
- Perfect for families
Beds
- Two Royal King beds (each can convert into two twin-size beds)
- Two fold-down Pullman beds
Size
- Stateroom: 406 sq. ft.
Category: WS
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Symbol | Description |
---|---|
Stateroom for occupancy 5 and up | |
Stateroom for occupancy up to 4 | |
Accessible stateroom | |
Stateroom has an obstructed view | |
Stateroom for occupancy up to 3 |
- Ship Name: Independence of the Seas
- Year Built: 2008
- Year Refurbished: 2018
- Year Entered Present Fleet: 2008
- Ship Class: Freedom
- Maximum Capacity: 4,560
- Number of Passenger Decks: 14
- Number of Crew: 1,440
- Officers' Nationality: International
- Ocean-View without Balcony: 289
- Ocean-View with Balcony: 724
- Total Inside Staterooms: 790
- Tonnage (GRT): 154,407
- Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 3,858
- Country of Registry: The Bahamas
- Total Staterooms: 1,930
- Suites with Balcony: 126
- Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International
Costco Member Reviews
Available Dates & Prices
Terms & Conditions
*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on Terms & Conditions link below for details.
†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.
Ship's registry: The Bahamas
Digital Costco Shop Card
This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.