The FlowRider on Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships is fabulous for an activity for sports lovers and teens. In this post, we will look at the ins and outs of the FlowRider. Check out our full guide to Royal Caribbean for families. Royal Caribbean cruises have thought of so many onboard activities and riding the ocean waves whilst on the Flowrider is one of them.
Choosing the right cruise line for your family cruise can be a daunting decision; having cruised with teens we know how important it is to get that balance right, so everyone has enough to do to keep them active and stimulated. Hence activities such as the Royal Caribbean FlowRider on some of Royal Caribbeans ships are perfect for active teens.
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All About The FlowRider On Royal Caribbean
What Is The FlowRider?
The FlowRider is a huge feature for sports lovers on many Royal Caribbean ships. It’s an exhilarating 12-metre-long surf simulator with 100,000 litres of rushing water, pumped at 30,000 gallons to create a simulated surfing experience wave that moves at 20 mph.
You are able to try your hand at bodyboarding or stand-up surfing with the help and guidance of an experienced surf instructor.
Which Royal Caribbean Ships Have A FlowRider?
Flowrider surf simulators can be found on the following ships;
- Adventure of the Seas
- Allure of the Seas (two FlowRiders)
- Anthem of the Seas
- Explorer of the Seas
- Freedom of the Seas
- Harmony of the Seas (two FlowRiders)
- Icon of the Seas
- Independence of the Seas
- Liberty of the Seas
- Mariner of the Seas
- Navigator of the Seas
- Oasis of the Seas (two FlowRiders)
- Odyssey Of The Seas
- Ovation of the Seas
- Quantum of the Seas
- Voyager of the Seas
- Spectrum of the Seas
- Symphony of the Seas (two FlowRiders)
- Utopia of the Seas
- Wonder of The Seas
- Icon of the Seas
- Utopia of the Seas (Due 2024)
Is The FlowRider Like Surfing?
Having tried both surfing and the FlowRider on Royal Caribbean, I found the FlowRider harder than surfing in the sea. However, the experience is as near as you are going to get to the real deal. I think for me the fear of falling off and hitting the back prevented me from relaxing.
Both of our boys took to it instantly and were able to surf easily with the guidance of their instructors. Check out the video to get an idea of how children can cope with the force of the water.
Tips For Mastering The FlowRider
As a family, we have all surfed and body-boarded on the Flowrider many times. These are some of the tips we have picked up.
- Listen to your instructor, they are experts.
- You will fall off and thats OK, just jump back on and have another go.
- Keep your elbows in, legs out straight for body boarding.
- When surfing keep both feet on board at all times with weight over back leg, and keep your core strong.
- Relax and dont overthink it.
- If you’re a beginner, your instructor will start you on your tummy, as you build confidence you will move to your knees, and finally feet.
- Ladies, wear a one-piece swimsuit or tie your tankini together. The water force is strong, and men wear snug-fitting trunks or ensure they are well secured.
- Get there as the session opens for a shorter line or surf on port days when it quieter, although there are less sessions running so keep that in mind.
How Old Do You Have To Be For The Flow Rider?
You must be a minimum of 6 years old, and children 12 and under must be supervised by an adult. However, there are also height restrictions: Guests must be at least 52″ (4ft. 3) to boogie board and at least 58″ (4ft. 10) to stand-up surf.
What Should I Wear For The FlowRider?
I would suggest a UV vest and swim shorts, girls and women should stick to a one-piece suit as the force of the water can cause costumes to rise and wear a t-shirt.
Is The FlowRider On Royal Caribbean Free?
Yes, the FlowRider is included in the price of your cruise, but on a first come, first serve basis. But you can also book private lessons for an additional cost.
What Are The FlowRider Opening Hours?
It will vary from sailing to sailing, however on your next cruise, as an idea and a guide:
- Embarkation Day FlowRider Hours, 12 pm-6.30 pm
- Sea Days, 9.30 am-12 pm and 2.30 pm-4 pm
- Port Days, 3 pm-6 pm
Further Reading On Royal Caribbean Family Cruising
- Kids Clubs On Royal Caribbean
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks Packages On Royal Caribbean
- Royal Caribbean Nurseries
- Choosing The Best Cruise Cabins For Families
- The RipCord by iFly on Quantum Class Ships
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