Allure of the Seas, Seminar at Sea
Barcelona to Rome Itinerary
From 20th to 24th April 2025, I had the privilege of attending a Seminar at Sea aboard the newly revamped Allure of the Seas, sailing from Barcelona to Rome. This unforgettable journey included stops in Palma de Mallorca, La Spezia, and finished in Rome, along with a day at sea, blending professional development with unparalleled cruising experiences.
Day 1: Barcelona, Spain – Embarkation and First Impressions
Our journey began in the lively city of Barcelona, where I boarded the Allure of the Seas and was immediately wowed by the ship’s contemporary upgrades. The transformation introduced stunning features, from the adrenaline-packed Ultimate Abyss slide to redesigned dining venues like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.
After settling into my stateroom, I explored the ship’s unique Neighbourhoods, including the tranquil Central Park and bustling Boardwalk. That evening, our seminar group gathered for a welcome reception, a fantastic opportunity to network with travel professionals while enjoying breath-taking ocean views.
Day 2: Palma de Mallorca, Spain – Beaches, History, and Pastries
Our first port of call was Palma de Mallorca, a destination that fuses relaxing coastal vibes with rich history. I joined a shore excursion that explored Palma’s enchanting La Seu Cathedral and its historic Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere.
No visit to Mallorca would be complete without sampling local pastries, and I thoroughly enjoyed indulging in an ensaïmada at a charming café. Back onboard, my evening featured a mouthwatering dinner at 150 Central Park followed by a Broadway-calibre performance of Mamma Mia!, reminding me why Royal Caribbean sets the bar for onboard entertainment.
Day 3: Cruising – Learning and Leisure
Day three was all about professional development, with seminar sessions focused on strategies for selling group travel, highlighting Royal Caribbean’s innovations, and promoting sustainable cruising. These insightful sessions left me energised and equipped with new tools to better serve my clients.
Afterward, I spent time experiencing the ship’s thrilling amenities, including the FlowRider Surf Simulator and, for a change of pace, the serene adults-only Solarium. The evening took a fun turn with karaoke at Spotlight Karaoke, which was a hit among fellow seminar attendees.
Day 4: La Spezia, Italy – Discovering the Charm of the City
While some guests took excursions to Florence and Pisa, I chose to spend the day walking around La Spezia, a port city that often serves as a gateway to Tuscany and Cinque Terre but is a gem in its own right.
My explorations took me through the laid-back streets and piazzas. The waterfront promenade was a highlight, offering stunning views of the harbour and colourful fishing boats. I wandered through the lively Mercato Centrale, where locals shopped for fresh produce, cheeses, and other Italian delights. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, giving me a true taste of Italian coastal life.
For lunch, I found a cosy trattoria serving authentic seafood pasta and paired it with a crisp local white wine. Walking through La Spezia without a fixed agenda turned out to be an unexpectedly fulfilling experience, allowing me to connect with its local charm and slower pace.
Back onboard the Allure of the Seas, I spent the evening relaxing at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, recharging after a day of leisurely exploration.
Day 5: Rome, Italy – A Grand Finale
The morning brought us to Rome, the final destination of this unforgettable seminar at sea. I disembarked smoothly at the cruise port and immediately transferred to Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for my return home. While I couldn’t spend more time exploring the Eternal City, the week-long journey on Allure of the Seas had already filled me with remarkable experiences and memories.
Final Thoughts: A Seminar to Remember
Attending the Seminar at Sea aboard Allure of the Seas from Barcelona was more than just a professional event, it was an experience that blended education, exploration, and luxury in ways only Royal Caribbean can deliver. From the mix of iconic destinations like Palma, La Spezia, and Rome to the ship’s state-of-the-art enhancements, every moment was carefully curated to showcase the best of cruising.
Whether it’s families looking for adventurous getaways, couples craving a romantic escape, or groups planning a memorable trip, the revamped Allure of the Seas has something for everyone. This cruise was the perfect way to blend business with pleasure, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned with my clients as they plan their next adventure.
