Vision of the Seas sails the Caribbean from Tampa in winter and the Mediterranean from its summer base of Barcelona. Launched in 1998, it's an older ship by today's standards but with some attractive features, not least its elegant profile, the attractive Centrum atrium (refurbished in 2013, when the ship had a big makeover) and much-loved Royal Caribbean classics like the Viking Crown Lounge, high atop the ship, with sweeping, 360 degree views of the sea, and the Solarium, a serene, sun-filled area around the aft pool with a retractable roof.

This ship is ideal for cruisers who enjoy the concepts and service of Royal Caribbean but prefer a smaller, more manageable ship than one of the newer, glitzier vessels. For example, all the cruise line's popular restaurants feature on Vision, with several having been added during the refit; Chops Grille, for an intimate night out dining on fine steaks and seafood; Giovanni's Table, for rustic Italian dishes; and, in one corner of the Aquarius dining room, the Chef's Table, seating up to 14 and hosted by one of the ship's chefs and offering a multi-course dinner with a different wine for every dish. There's also an Asian restaurant, Izumi, serving sushi, sashimi and 'Hot Rock' plates with sizzling dishes cooked in front of you. New in 2013 was the R Bar, a 1960s-style cocktail venue serving a fine range of Martinis.

Activities on board include the Vitality at Sea spa and gym; a rock-climbing wall; a library; an entertainment lounge and a plush theatre; two pools; a large casino; a giant movie screen on deck overlooking the pool; and Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbean's award-winning children's club.