This was the worst cruise I have ever been on. From the waste of money with the priority boarding, to the salt room being out of order, the shows not being available, and the shortened port times, it was incredibly disappointing. We treated my mother and my aunt to this cruise and were excited for them to see why we enjoy cruising so much. Unfortunately it was not a good experience and they don't understand the appeal of cruising.
Embarkation
1 out of 5
We purchased the priority boarding package. We were in line for over an hour with others. There was no priority boarding if you have to stand in line that long.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food was good. Portions were good. Cagney's and Moderno were good. Buffet and dining room were good. Did not see escargot on the menu, and were told that lobster was not on the menu either.
Onboard Activities
1 out of 5
We purchased 4 passes to the thermal suite after viewing it. There was a sign on the salt room that it was out of order. I asked the staff member who showed us around prior to purchasing if it would be fixed that day. She said it would, so we bought the passes. It was out of order our whole cruise. So, either she lied, or they charged us full price knowing that part of the experience would not be available at all. I got a mani-pedi and went to the thermal pool afterwards. After spending a few minutes in the water, the polish had started to come off. I returned to the spa, and they repainted, but this should not have happened for the price I paid.
Entertainment
1 out of 5
We did not get to see any of the comedians or magicians, because you had to make reservations to see the show. Reservations were not available to make from the screen in the cabin---they showed all performances were full. We went to the theatre just in case someone didn't show up, and there were people holding seats for others, which we had been told wasn't allowed.
Children's Programs
no children with us
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
The best thing about the ship was the staff--they are the only good thing I can say about the cruise, other than the spa staff. Spa staff were slightly rude, but this could be a cultural difference.
Ship Quality
2 out of 5
I didn't pay that much attention to the layout/design, or common areas. I did note that the "game shows" held in the atrium were too crowded, as there was not enough seating in such a small area, and the view was blocked by others who were standing up.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Cabin size was comfortable. Lots of storage. Probably the biggest shower I've ever had on a ship. Steward kept our cabin neat. We never got a towel animal though.
When we checked in, we were given an altered schedule of port times. Costa Maya seemed to have the shortest stop. Almost all the excursions were cancelled due to the brief time there.
Out of all the ports that had the decreased time spent there, the private island was the only one that had the full time allotted. This was disappointing, since you have to pay for food and drink on the island, and you are limited to the excursions you can take.
Finding our luggage was quick and easy. However, leaving the terminal was crowded and unorganized (we self parked) and our uber was not able to get to us for almost an hour due to the congestion of traffic and people standing around.
Did they give a reason for the shortened time in the ports? That to me would be a disappointment. I know things happen, but for it to happen to 3 out of 4, I would need to know why.
I can certainly understand your disappointment. Yes, things change, yes, there can be issues, and yes, we can all adapt…but, when so many issues occur, they add up to a diminished experience…one that you paid a lot of money for!
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