Good value, but once was enough.

Enchantment of the Seas Cruise Review to Caribbean - Bahamas

Cruises: 2-3 cruises
Reviews: 11
Helpful Votes: 472

Overall rating:

3 out of 5
Enchantment of the Seas

Bahamas

Sail date: September 19, 2016

Ship: Enchantment of the Seas

Cabin type: Inside

Cabin number: 3593

Traveled as: Family (young children)

Reviewed: 8 years ago

Review summary

Overall, Enchantment is still a beautiful ship despite being nearly 20 years old. I've read others complain about the condition,  but I'd have to disagree.It was a perfect first cruise for our children, but the attention to detail and service excellence I've experienced on previous cruises was subpar. Nonetheless, for the price, we found value in the Enchantment 4-Night Bahamas trip.

 

We were pleasantly surprised with the spacious interior staterooms, even with 3 people per cabin. 

 

The itinerary's diversity allowed for a cultural experience, relaxing beach day, and historical education- however it also resulted in little time for R&R between activities.

 

     Previous cruises ensured that everything was as promised. Enchantment delivered what was promised, but not without error. For example, we ordered a birthday package for our son 3 weeks ahead of time for $65. While the room was decorated as promised, the cake that was supposed to be presented in the dining room was actually in the stateroom when we arrived- hours before dinner. When we arrived at dinner, the rolls were fresh, but served cool enough to not melt butter. Little things detracted from a perfect experience.

 

 

Service was nothing spectacular.

     The Windjammer staff seemed primarily concerned with clearing and cleaning tables to ensure turnover of a consistently crowded space. Beverages were not offered at the table and sometimes required a wait for preparation at the beverage station.

     Aside from during dinner in the main dining room (where service was exceptional), I was only offered a drink once while on the entire cruise. Otherwise, a bartender had to be asked. While the drinks were prepared quickly, the service was strictly transactional with the glass and a receipt provided and no subsequent conversation. Though I didn't desire an extensive exchange, pleasant small talk would have been appreciated.

     Again, the waitstaff in My Fair Lady main dining room made each night's dinner service wonderful. This is not to say that the dinner experience was perfect, though. Bar service was routinely slow. Drinks arrived after appetizers on more than one evening. The food was generally very good, portioned appropriately, and aesthetically presented. I missed the cultural themed nights related to ports of call that previous cruises have offered. Also, lobster and steak cost extra- though definitely worth $15 plus gratuity for a perfectly prepared filet. 

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

3 out of 5
The greatest meals cost extra. Dinner rolls were served cool enough to not melt butter.

Onboard Activities

3 out of 5
Good variety of activities, though not offered at all times and not well coordinated with other events.

Entertainment

3 out of 5
Great shows, though not ideally timed. Had to rush dinner, change the kids, get them to the Children's program, and rush back to make the show on time.

Children's Programs

5 out of 5
Excellent inclusion of children of various ages.

Service and Staff

3 out of 5
No one offered beverages and, when they were provided it was strictly transactional with no conversation.

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
Plenty of room for 1 adult and 2 tweens with the Pullman bed dropped down. Suitcases stored in dryer the beds and ample closet and dresser space was provided. Bathroom wasn't too shabby, either. Good use of space. Clean.

Ship tip

Great option for a first cruise or budget friendly vacation. Don't expect service excellence or attention to detail.

Ports of call

Miami, Florida

3 out of 5
New car got dings and scratches (door harshly rubbed against side of vehicle) in the Port parking garage and no note was left. Park at your own risk.

Nassau, Bahamas

3 out of 5
Be ready to negotiate or just say no. Ardastra Zoo is great if you have kids.

Cococay (Cruise Line's Private Island)

5 out of 5
Go snorkeling and enjoy the barbecue!

Key West

5 out of 5

Traveler Photos

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7 Comments

cruisereckoning    4 years ago

Thanks for the review

robbie495    8 years ago

Thanks for the info. And 12 shrimp for the little one, Omg she must have been so happy.

Medic9701    8 years ago

Our formal dinner was on night 2. We had early seating to keep the kids routine, but both seatings should offer a very similar experience. Dining staff will make sure you are satisfied with the meal selection and portions. If not, just ask for something different or another helping. On day 2, our waitstaff found out that our little one loved the shrimp cocktail and brought her our 3 appetizers (12 shrimp) at once on the third night!

robbie495    8 years ago

Thank you so much.

ljh180    8 years ago

Robbie, there is a formal night on the Enchantment. I believe it is on the second night.

robbie495    8 years ago

My wife and I leave Friday on the Enchantment for our 1st cruise. Now I know that cruises had formal nights in the main dinning room, do they have it on the Enchantment? And what's the best time to be seated? Thanks for the review.

Windjam064    8 years ago

Nice review -

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