Overall we had a wonderful cruise. We cruised the southern caribbean to Aruba on RCCL's the Aventure of the Seas. This is our second cruise on this class of ship and we have enjoyed both trips. There is much to do for people of all ages and interests. Despite it's size you really don't feel that crowded.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Our only complaint with the larger ships is that food quality and presentation has begun to drop off. There appears to be much more use of commercially prepared food rather then freshly made items. For example, instead of homemade fried potatoes in the morning you now get deep fried potatoe nuggets. Also in our earlier cruises (6-8 years ago) more emphasis was put on presentation where now it is beginning to look more like cafeteria food.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
This ship probably had the best entertainment of any cruise we've been on. I highly recommend the ice show and the two productions that the ship puts on. We had a good lineup of guest actors although one act I have now seen on three different cruises. The good news was he did have different routines which still made it interesting to watch.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
While we didn't have any children participating in the program we did get a chance to see the children's swimming area at the rear of the ship. The facilities were great with many things to do. We also witnessed two shows the children participated in and everone appeared to be having a great time. I wouldn't hesitate bringing our grandchildren on a cruise and having them involved in the Children's Program.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Overall we felt the staff was excellent. We had an excellent waiter staff at our table and our cabin steward did an excellent job. Our only complaint was with the bar waiters. We purchased the pre-paid weekly soda plan and on three occasions we never received our order. It appears the waiters are more interested in the larger tips they receive from the alcoholic beverage. I still don't understand why soft drinks aren't included in the price of the cruise.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Of the various ships we've cruised on this is one of our favorites. The spacious promanade, large threatre, and many pools/spas, give you ample things to do with feeling there are to many people on the ship. The only time we felt crowded was when they fill up the promanade with bargin tables, and on occassion the photo area.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
One aspect we like about this class of ship are the staterooms. They are adequately sized with ample storage areas, a reasonably sized bathroom, and bright cheery decor that makes them inviting and comfortable. Like many people we prefer balcony rooms to give you that extra space and a private area to enjoy the the scenery.
In St. Maarten we took a "Land and Sea Tour." Our bus driver was both knowledgeable and humorous. We then went to the French side where we got on a glass bottom boat to see the coral and the fish and then spent about 45 minutes shopping before heading back to the ship. The boat tour was good but not spectacular.
In St. Thomas we stayed in the Shopping Mall area that is next to the cruise ship docks. Many of the main stores have stores both at the mall and in the main shopping area which you need to take a taxi to get to.
We took a bus tour of the island. Overall the tour was very informative but the driver was difficult to understand. Using the city bus is a reasonable and convenient way to get to various locations on the island. Overall the people were very friendly and helpful.
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