The worst part of the entire experience was the "muster"... you must find a better way to do this. Having all of your guests standing in close quarters for 30-45 minutes in the heat is horrible. I would love to do another cruise, but thinking of going through the muster again makes me think twice, I am not sure if everything else outweighs the misery of that experience.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Actual embarkation was fine, long lines, but nothing too onerous. However, we used the RC shuttle from the airport (FLL), that was a mistake, it cost us nearly an hour or more...had to wait at the airport, wait on the bus when we arrived at the port (while the driver unloaded our bags from the bus to the curb...that then went straight on the ship, so why were we waiting? To give the driver a tip. Here is the tip, let us off the bus asap, you might actually get a tip then), then we got to wait in line to actually board.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Mostly good. We had problems with our soda cups every single time we tried to refill (the machine did not read the chip, or the machine was out of stock, or out of service). The "deluxe" drink package was a must for us. We drank more water and had as many drinks by the pool and in the evenings as wanted without having to worry about counting pennies. Having to sign for every drink was a pain, but I think this was mainly for soliciting tips (again, my tip would would be to stop this hassle, you would get more tips).
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The pool, casino, shows, movies by the pool were all good. We really enjoyed the dance lessons.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The bands were great. Cruise director very annoying.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Overwhelmingly good. Some exceptions, lazy bartenders mostly.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
As expected.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Ship tip
Rock wall and bouncy thing was never open. What up?
The ship we were just on had muster drill groups inside. We were in mdr. Our 1st cruise was outside and hot and I had a lady pass out beside me but we got her inside and water. But she hadn't had enough to drink all day. Have to stay hydrated and not with alcohol before the muster! They also take so long because they have to wait for everyone to be accounted for and those that take forever to get to there muster stations is why?
Royal which is my cruise line of choice needs to make all muster drills in the mdr or the theater or a combo of both it is too hot and far to close when done on the deck it's not safe I have come very close to passing out and always manage to get next to an over perfume user or an under deodorant user
The trick for the muster drill is to be the last one there. Once you get close to the location, get off to the side. Let the others pack in and just as it is about to start, join the back of the crowd. Last in is the first out.
My first cruise in 2014 also had a muster from hell. I almost passed out due to the hot air blowing and we were lined up like sardines in a outer hallway and I almost passed out due to being sandwiched between all the people in the middle row. Fortunately the muster drill on our other 3 cruises went well as they were in the dining rooms. So hopefully that will be the same for you. Check with the cruise line as to where the muster station drills are held.
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