Being our first cruise I was very nervous as I have horrible motion sickness but, despite being seasick our time spent on this cruise was def worth it.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Embarkation was fast and easy. Everyone was super friendly and helped with directions, answering questions, and keeping the lines moving. Knowing to have our boarding passes and passports out in advance was definitely helpful in getting us through all check points before boarding the ship. We didn't have a lot of luggage with us as we travel pretty light. We checked in our two rolling bags and had one carry-on book bag which had all of our paperwork, and a change of clothes (just in case). Our checked bags arrived to our room in a timely manner.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Food and drinks on this ship were awesome. They had so many different options for food on the buffet lines. Main dining rooms were very clean. Food servers were so fun and the bartenders were all outstanding. Pizza was available 24 hours which was definitely a huge plus as my fiance is a night owl.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Much like the food and drinks, the ship had so many different activities to choose from throughout the day. My fiance and I spent a lot of time in the pool on the Lido deck during the day. We went to the comedy shows, love and marriage show (which was hilarious), 80's night, Motown- name that song night, nightclub, and a lot of other activities.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
This was definitely a party cruise and cruise directory Schwartz did not disappoint. I am 100% convinced that he can get even the most shy or grumpy person in a party mood. He is made up of energy and fun. We had a blast at all of the evening events that he hosted.
Children's Programs
We did not have any children with us.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our room steward was absolutely amazing. He was always around if we needed something, always greeted us (by name) as we walked passed, made sure we were doing okay. Any staff member we encountered was genuinely nice. Great customer service by the staff of this ship.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Layout was good, everything was easily accessible. The maps right outside each elevator lobby were super helpful. The interior and pool decks were very clean and well-maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Our cabin was on the second deck close to the front of the ship. It had two little circular windows, two twin beds, ample walking around room, a closet, bathroom, and TV. The size was sufficient for two adults. With the permission of our room steward we did pull the mattresses off of the two beds and put them on the floor so we could sleep together. The only downside of this cabin was that you can feel every wave, and air pocket so it wasn't very helpful with my seasickness. Next time we cruise I know to get a cabin on a higher level.
Ship tip
Once piece of advice would be to relax and take it all in. There are so many different activities for all age groups so there is definitely something for you on board.
Nothing too exciting about Ocho Rios. I was kind of turned off by all the little roadside stands right outside the gates when you're walking into town. The area can't be avoided as the tour buses and taxis are parked in the middle of this spot. The people running the roadside stalls were aggressive and pushy in trying to sell you their things. They would grab you and pull you to their stalls no matter how many times you said "No". We stopped at Margaritaville - the service was a little slow for how dead the restaurant was. Margaritaville had a pool on the outside deck portion of the restaurant and had a private beach area so you could walk right out to the water. This port of call definitely left something to be desired.
We did the rum distillery and brewer tour. There was a bus that took everyone to and from the port. We spent about 20-30 minutes in Tortuga, 45 minutes at the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery (where they make Seven Fathoms), another 45 minutes at the Cayman Islands Brewery, and the rest of the time we were at the seven mile beach before heading back to the ship. This excursion was so fun!
Beautiful beaches, friendly people, and so much food! We went with the Mr. Sancho's all inclusive beach excursion at this stop. They had a pool bar, food options were delicious (buffet and sit-down menu), servers and staff were friendly and prompt. Our server Angel was constantly checking up on us and brought food and drinks out pretty quickly. He was full of helpful information on all the activities that were available - ie. horseback riding, snorkeling, parasailing, paddle boarding, etc. The bartender Julio was very consistent and fast with making drinks. He made sure I had another drink as soon as my glass was empty. The beach area itself was very clean, and had lounging chairs and picnic table seating. There was also an inflatable obstacle course in the water that was a lot of fun.
Pleasantly surprised by how fast our disembarkation process went. Director Schwartz explained the process during the disembarkation meeting and then made multiple reminder and general info announcements the morning of disembarkation. We made our way to the Gangway (disembarking area) at 7 am and where done with customs at 7:15 am. Including waiting for the shuttle to arrive to take us to our car, the whole process took less than 45 minutes.
I am glad to hear that you had such a good time on your 1st cruise. On your next cruise get started on the motion sickness medication a couple of days before you leave. Welcome to the club of people that are hooked on cruising!!
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