MALAGA, Spain -- Fireworks filled the night sky in Malaga, Spain, Monday night, and it was Royal Caribbean International's doing.
I, with thousands of other guests, was gathered on the top decks of the brand-new Legend of the Seas for the show. The ship docked in Malaga was preparing to depart for its first cruise, and the fireworks marked a milestone: A member of Royal's Icon class, the largest class of cruise ships ever, is cruising Europe for the first time.
Legend will be sailing the Mediterranean for the duration of the summer, and its inauguration into the Royal Caribbean fleet comes just 10 months after sister ship Star of the Seas joined in August.
What's new onboard
The primary differences are in the programming. Tonight, I'll see a preview performance of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," the 93-minute Broadway adaptation on Legend, complete with a 15-piece orchestra.
Yesterday, I saw the new AquaDome production "Shockwave," which includes dancing, diving and swimming routines to a score that includes Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and Alex Warren's "Ordinary."
A moment from "Voyage to Adventure," a new parade on the Legend of the Seas. Photo Credit: Teri West
And this morning, I saw a new children's parade in the promenade called "Voyage to Adventure," a musical performance highlighting destinations around the world including Italy, Mexico and the Arctic. Pro tip: find a viewing spot next to Starbucks to be right at the center of the action (and potentially have confetti explode in your face, like I did).
I've also gotten a taste of new culinary offerings in the AquaDome Market, which on Legend has Cajun, Korean, Mexican and Spanish food stalls. I enjoyed the shrimp gumbo at Cajun Kitchen.
I'm still on the lookout for Skipper, the chief dog officer on Legend. Royal first introduced the chief dog officer concept on Icon of the Seas with Rover, a golden retriever that resides onboard and can be met serendipitously as she goes about her day.
I love a scavenger hunt and, of course, puppies, so Skipper's elusive presence has unlocked a new category of fun in my cruising experience.