EDIT.... I just realized I selected Carnival Liberty. This was actually Liberty of the Seas (Royal Caribbean). This was our first Christmas cruise, first time in a suite, and the first cruise after masks were reinforced for vaccinated passengers. It was a great time and I would do it over again tomorrow.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
This was my 8th cruise (2nd with Royal and 7th out of Galveston) and embarkation has gotten better over the years. Certainly two things helped make this a 5 star, 1) the reduced capacity and 2) the fact everyone has been sorted into 30 minute time slots.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The food was excellent. We paid for Johnny Rockets and Giovanni's and the food was great. This way 2nd time at Giovanni's and it's worth paying the extra money. The filet mignon is superb! The food in the main dining room is great and they have a great selection. I'm not a fan of the buffets. The food is good, not great. Finding a place to sit is always an issue. This is the same on all cruise lines I've been on. I'd rather get lunch at the pizza or burger places on deck.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Liberty has plenty of pools, hot tubs, rock climbing, flo-rider, and three slides. There was plenty to keep you busy and the lines were short.
Entertainment
We didn't really make time for the shows/entertainment on this one. We let the kids hand out at the pools and slides.
Children's Programs
We did not use the kids clubs.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The services we received was first class. We've never had an issue with anyone on any cruise line, but Royal seems to take it too the next level. Everyone we encounter is friendly. Are particular servers, and steward, go out of their way to make conversation and find out about you and your kids. The service by everyone on Liberty was exceptional.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
The design of the ship is good and is easy to get familiar with fairly quickly. Your never too far from anything. The only issue I had with cleanliness was the lack of the staff cleaning the balcony glass. The first night we had some bad storms and the saltwater and humidity combined to cake on the glass. It wasn't cleaned the entire cruise and it made the balcony not nice as usual. If you wanted to see the ocean, you had to stand.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin type is not an "inside cabin" this is a Owners Suite with a balcony. For four people it was a great space and very clean.
Disembarkation
5 out of 5
Easily the BEST disembarkation of all my cruises. Yes, we had a suite (first time in a suite) and the perks are worth the extra money, like getting escorted off the ship early. But, having a passport and using facial recognition vs having to show your passport in a line at customs beats it all. If you have a passport (and you should if cruising) getting through customs in Galveston take 15 seconds. Yep, step up, facial recognition, and your done. As easy as using it to unlock your Iphone. All ports need to have this feature.
Appreciate your detailed review. It’s wonderful that you sail often enough that you can make the mistake of which cruise line you were on. Glad you enjoyed your cruise.
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purpl 2 years ago
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