lanceb333

Bridgetown, Barbados

Rainy day while we were there however that is not why I give this port a 3 star rating. On our prior visit to Barbados we were taken to what apparently was the better side of the island and did not witness trash in the roads or piled in vacant lots. This trip we opted for a day pass at a hotel in Needhams Point. This was not the same Barbados we had seen before as there were many areas trashed and rundown with no signs of repair. The hotel area however was very clean and comfortable.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Somewhat disappointed with this port. Not because of the hurricane damage but because it seems like the downtown shopping area has become overrun by jewelry stores. There are few unique places to shop. Our favorite is Fish Face which has none of the normal port stuff, but is stocked with handmade treasures, great clothing, and beautiful photographs. There needs to be more of these type shops.

St. John's, Antigua

Another gem on this trip. From the moment we stepped off the boat we felt welcomed by everyone we came into contact with. We took a ship tour to the Stingray experience and were very well taken care of in a friendly and professional manner by the staff at the tour site as well as our tour guide. The shopping area near the port was clean, well maintained, and the shop keepers friendly and helpful. A couple recommended shops that we found great were Chelles on Redcliffe Quay and Island Press. Chelles has an outstanding selection of handcrafted jewelry and art at very reasonable prices. Island Press is a clothing shop that will imprint one of many of their island specific imprints onto any of the many pieces of clothing that they have including t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, and more. Both were great locations and I highly recommend them

Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Stayed a couple of days prior to the cruise. We have been many times and it may just be getting to be routine. I would recommend the water taxi to cruise about the intercoastal as well as seeing the downtown area shops.

Castries, St. Lucia

This was our second trip to St. Lucia. The first trip was a rained out mess with historic rains and damage to the island during the stop. However, this trip changed our view 100%. We noticed that the island was significantly cleaner than our first stop and appears that it is being much better maintained. We did a tour with Spencer Ambrose tours and had a most enjoyable day with them. All in all, St. Lucia went from being an island we dreaded to visit to one we cannot wait to visit again. Congratulations to the St. Lucians for the great turnaround.

Basseterre, St. Kitts

Went to Martinique instead - Not a fan of Martinique as it was expensive, somewhat dirty, and store keepers seemed put out that we were in their stores.

Serenade of the Seas

Enjoy the intimacy of the ship. If you go in expecting the same areas and amenities as the Oasis class ships you may be disappointed. The ship is well cared for and you will be comfortable, well fed, and well entertained.