Given some of the mixed reviews we recently read we were pleasantly surprised with all aspects of the cruise. Yes, the Elation is an older ship without some of the latest bells and whistles. But it was a perfect size for our young grandsons (3 & 5) and the ports of call (Grand Turk and Amber Cove) were user friendly. Also, the length of the cruise (5 days) was just right for the little ones. The ship was clean; the staff was courteous, friendly, and competent; the food was varied and tasty; and the rooms were well laid out and relatively spacious. Everyone had a fantastic time and didn't want to leave. Perhaps the best family vacation yet.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Very easy given our priority status, but it seemed well organized and spreedy for all cruisers
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
No complaints. Decent food in Tiffany's (on the Lido Deck) and pretty good and varied cuisine in the Inspiration dining room. The servers were quick to bring drink and food to our grandsons.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The water-slide area was a big hit.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
Club Ocean did a super job with my 3 & 5 year old grandsons. Great staff!!!
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
We found the staff competent, friendly and attentive.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Older ship but pretty well maintained. Just the right size for my young grandsons.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Our balcony suite was clean, the bathroom was relatively large, and the room had plenty of storage space. We had adjoining suites with my daughter's family and a door between the rooms. We pulled down the "upper bunks" in both rooms to give my grandson (3 & 5) their choice of rooms to sleep in. My youngest son was just across the hall. Everyone enjoyed the good-sized balconies and our proximity to everything onboard.
Stayed in the port center and rented a cabana by the large pool and Margaritaville. Had lunch delivered to the cabana. Swim up bar was popular with my son. Restrooms could use some improvement.
Enjoyed the pool and zip line while staying in an Ocean Cabana. My son and grandsons swam in the cove. The water was not a clear and pristine blue, but they enjoyed it nonetheless.
Glad you enjoyed it. Always take the reviews with a grain of salt, especially those that rate everything as 1 star. Nothing is ever perfect or totally bad. Many seem to just be looking for a way to be miserable. I can’t imagine not enjoying a cruise.
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