GregS4

We are frequent cruisers, mainly Holland America and Princess. We cruised RC 20 ago and found it to be superior at that time. Alaska Airlines offered a very good price for the four day cruise from Los Angeles and it was our reason for choosing the experience. But in reality we soon learned that it is what one pays for. This cruise and this ship may appeal to first timers, partiers, and those who care less about the cruise and more about themselves.The Monarch of the Seas in Sep 2008 was a big disappointment. The ship needs updating badly. The staterooms are cramped. There are a limited number of balconies. Our room was in disrepair, the toilet and tap needed plumbing repairs, wall fixtures in the stateroom were broken, and the closet compromised by the location towards the bow of the ship. Middle management staff were non visible in the cafeteria. Staff were slow to clean up tables. Many staff spent long times talking with patrons and not attending to their duties. There are no disinfectant stations in any dining areas or anywhere on the ship. The floors are dirty. Smoking is permitted on the starboard side of the open pool areas. Half of the pool area was closed for maintenance while the open part was accordingly overcrowded. All of the outdoor entertainers have speakers that blast throughout the open area. Party on and on, incessently. The library is a joke, mainly abandoned patrons' books in a dime size reading area. Other critiques point out other deficiencies. Suffice it to say that we will not revisit RC as our time and our experience are both more important than this voyage proved to be. To be more balanced in these comments we found the food to be average, the dining room serving team, guest relations and cabin staff are excellent, the casino large and with helpful staff, but sadly full of smoke and smokers. The one night it was smoke free there were more players! Shopping on the ship is below average and the stop at Ensenada is wasted but neccessary by USA law. Entertainment and the Sound of Music Theater are excellent. Cabin tvs are small and full of static. Ship security is very lax at the ports. We learned of many travellers proud of their methods of sneaking booze past the so called guards. Departure was long but that is a US Customs norm now. The airport is a $60 taxi fare to the ship. Much better location for this is San Diego. The Captain tried his best, but I would wonder how long this ship can pretend to be a Monarch. It is a tired out Simba.