This cruise was spectacular. We were so happy to be cruising again! Of course the restrictions and pre-cruise hoops (especially the testing) are a hassle, but for us it was worth it. We had several of our originally-booked group have to cancel, particularly those with small children, but for us (our "baby" is in his early 20s) it was just amazing to be on the ocean again and relax away from all the stress and anxiety of everyday life. The Horizon is a gorgeous ship and easy to navigate, the crew was so ready for us to be back as well. They're all getting back into their rhythm, and everything was just wonderful.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
The new procedures are actually super simple and streamlined. There are a few extra steps in places (vaccine and test verification), but the facial recognition for getting through the second part means that you breeze right through!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The dining room staff was awesome. A couple of people in our traveling party have recently undergone some medical procedures (non-Covid-related) and had some dietary restrictions. The staff went above and beyond to make sure that they both always had not only what they could eat, but helped with smaller or larger portions or special requests when necessary.
I LOVE that the Mongolian Wok and Cucina del Capitano are included at lunch.
There were so many other options that I think I only ate at the buffets for breakfast one or two days.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
With the restrictions and mask requirements, some of the activities were definitely toned down. The Fun Squad did their best, and there were definitely things to do. Plus, "Donkey" was amazing! Super pumped all the time. We sailed in October, so the Halloween/costume party replaced the 80's Rock N Glow party.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Absolutely incredible! I think this trip had my all-time favorite cruise ship show ever. Celestial Strings was pure magic. The Horizon in particular had a dancer who performed en pointe for part of the performance, and the strings were heavenly. I love the blend of classical and modern music. It was utterly breathtaking from start to finish.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our waiters went above and beyond, and it was so very much appreciated. Our cabin steward was efficient and always busy. And if you're in the market for a watch, check out the Invicta Store and ask for Arthur (I think...my notes with names are at home) from South Africa!
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The Horizon layout is one of my favorites so far. I didn't really expect to enjoy the larger ships nearly so much. My favorite are currently the Conquest class (specifically the Liberty), but the Horizon was easy to navigate.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
OMGosh! When the rest of our party opted out of the cruise, instead of having the money refunded we just treated ourselves and upgraded to a suite. It was pure heaven on the ocean. The balcony is larger than normal, there was plenty of space to play cards or chat with friends/family in the room in the evenings, the jacuzzi tub was a real bonus, as well as the double sinks.
We'd never been to HMC before, but I definitely want to go back. I'm not normally a "beach" girl...super pale and tend to burn quickly...but the water here was so beautiful and crystal clear. I could literally walk out with the water over my head and still see the bottom clearly. We rented a clamshell (about $30 for the day with two beach chairs). It was worth it for me b/c I just physically can't spend as much time in the sun as I would like.
W did not like Bimini. If you want another beach port, we do understand that the beaches are nice, but since we had just spent the day before at HMC, this one was a letdown for us. The free tram only takes you to 4 places on half of the island, with no shopping available. To get to the other half, the best way is to taxi ($5 per person each way) or golf cart ($60 for the day for a cart that seats up to 4). If we had been prepared for it, it might not have been so bad, but it was such a letdown that it seemed like nothing more than a money grab at the pier. Shopping was minimal even "downtown" on the other side of the island. Definitely a beach port more than anything else.
Easiest disembarkation ever. We were off the ship and through customs with our luggage before 8:15:AM. I don't know how much of it was because of the limited number of passengers, but it was a super smooth disembarkation.
Appreciate your feedback. We sail on the Horizon in 8 days and you made my excitement greater. We have not yet seen the Celestial Strings and your description makes me happy it’s going to be available. We have never had Donkey as our CD and your praise has me looking forward to it. Glad you enjoyed your cruise.
*Cruiseline.com is not a booking agent or travel agency,
and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners
(travel agencies and cruise lines) provide prices, which we list for our
users' convenience. Cruiseline.com does not guarantee any specific rates or
prices. While prices are updated daily, please check with the booking site
for the exact amount. Cruiseline.com is not responsible for content on
external web sites.
Contact us
Submitting...
Need help from a personal vacation planner?
Loading...
Find the perfect cruise with weekly tips and cruise deals for as little as $30/night!
Sign up for weekly cruise deals
Join other subscribers and get the best
cruise deals of the week in your inbox every Thursday.
