We enjoyed our visits to all 5 islands, but doubt we would repeat this particular cruise, as we'd prefer to see new islands and have different experiences. On this cruise we only had one repeat island from previous cruises, and were able to select a totally different - and nice - excursion.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Best embarkation ever! This was the quickest, best organized embarkation out of the 9 ocean cruises I have taken on 4 different cruise lines.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
The ship was a little tired but everything worked. Dining room service got off to a disappointing start but improved greatly after the first 2 dinners. The Windjammer buffet had good food, but less variety than past cruises, and iced tea was now only available on request there.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Tried my first rock wall climb and enjoyed it. The mini golf course was cool, using two decks to provide 9 holes. Shuffleboard was also fun. And the pools were clean and just the right temperature.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Everything we saw was entertaining and well executed.
Children's Programs
Our kids are grown and out of the house!
Service and Staff
3 out of 5
Everybody smiled and greeted us warmly every time. Room steward was not so great, with towels disappearing early in the cruise only to be replaced with too many replacements on later days. Dinner service improved after the first two days.
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
Common areas and elevators could have been a little cleaner. And many things looked worn, like the mismatched seat cushions on two or three different types of chairs in the dining room - and in the Windjammer as well.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
A typical cabin, with the usual features. Like most cruise cabins, this one lacked proper places to dry swimsuits and swimming t-shirts, but we made do. The safe was a nice feature.
Ship tip
Pick a cabin on a deck that goes through the entire ship if you can. Makes it easier to get around. And get to the shows early to secure the seats you want.
Yes, we took an unusual and wonderful excursion from Dream Vacations that included a Rum factory, lunch, and time on the legendary beach at the end of St. Maarten's runway.
Sure, I can't wait to go back to Barbados. It was so beautiful. Prettiest water I've ever seen. If you are going to Barbados, take a cab to the Boathouse. It's an awesome beach bar and the water is gorgeous. Every cabbie knows where it is. The sulfur spring tour in St Lucia is cool. The bus takes you through the banana plantations and through little fishing villages. Very cool. Have a great time. We are doing the other southern tour....Aruba, etc. on Sept 23rd. 56 days Woooohoooo!! Can't wait.
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