Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas bills itself as "your home away from home", which seems to be playing things down somewhat. While the welcoming atmosphere is spot on, this floating city is about as far from my home as possible.

With 15 decks jam-packed with staterooms, top-class entertainment, impressive sporting facilities and an array of dining facilities, I got to look around the ship in Southampton, docked between European itineraries before heading to the Caribbean.

Firmly family-friendly, children of all ages will love the H2O Zone interactive water park. There's a dedicated sports pool for volleyball and basketball, while the less energetic can relax in the whirlpools.

But that's just the start. Kids, teens and envious grown-ups can get their adrenaline kicks ice-skating, wall climbing and wiping out on FlowRider, the ship's surf simulator. There's a basketball court, a running track, a games arcade and if that all sounds a bit tiring, a spa too.

All the action will boost your appetite, which is just as well as eating is a major pastime for the 4,000-plus passengers. The never-ending buffet in the Windjammer serves a range of cuisines, while a host of other restaurants fill in any gaps with everything from sushi to fine dining.

Rates: A three-night cruise starts from £349 per person

As with all cruises, the accommodation varies with your budget. Interior rooms offer better value than those with balconies, though think carefully before checking in for a windowless week with the brood.

That said, hanging out in your room is far from the idea. When you're not eating, playing or simply hanging out, take the opportunity to do a spot of shopping, have a flutter in the casino or take a seat in the audience for the hit show Grease.

And if, in the unlikely event you run out of things to do, there's time to ponder that all-important question - exactly how does this thing float?