Overall, the ship was incredibly impressive. It was a pleasure to get lost aboard the sizable Explorer of the Seas, with its vibrant Promenade, spacious pool deck and elegant dining rooms and elevators. The onboard ice skating rink was such an interesting attraction!
Unfortunately, a horrible sanitation smell saturated the corridors most days, and all night one evening. In addition, staterooms leave much to be desired.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Food quality is very good, but there was little restaurant variety. At the buffet, trays were consistently replenished with fresh items. The fruit was particularly delicious! No dishes stood out spectacularly, so I wouldn't expect gourmet dining. A few tasty dishes were available during dinner from the Windjammer, but overall, it's a hodgepodge of buffet items. Dining rooms offered a few items that I would consider upgrades from those in the Windjammer, but again, nothing spectacular. We were always able to get reservations, though they were typically only early and late time available.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Though there were a variety of activities, many seemed to be geared more toward older guests. As a 32 year old professional, I had expected a myriad of entertainment that would allow me to let my hair down. Those types of events typically occurred at night with the phenomenal cruise director and his staff. The chilly weather made sun-bathing on the pool deck unbearable, so days got a bit boring.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The Explorer of the Seas' staff are the ABSOLUTE BEST! I can not say enough about how personable, humorous and accommodating everyone is... and that's EVERYONE! I felt like VIP for the entire cruise - like staff went above and beyond, at every turn. I would take this cruise again, if staff were the same. TOP NOTCH!!
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
The Explorer of the Seas is large, without being overwhelming. It is quite easy to navigate once acclimating to its layout. Public areas were kept very tidy, with the exception of corridor carpets. They appear to be in great need of deep cleaning, as they were darkened by imbedded dirt. There is a bit of a decor imbalance, as public areas were adorned with brilliant metals and precision-cut glasses, while corridors and landings contain varied pieces of abstract art that seemed strewn about.
Cabin / Stateroom
1 out of 5
A generous closet, full-length mirror and vanity are wonderful touches to the stateroom. In many other areas however, staterooms are greatly in need of improvement. The upholstered furniture was colored by worn-in dirt (vanity chair, sofa), as was the bed runner. The space is incredibly cluttered in interior king rooms. The television is outdated, and located at an odd angle, making viewing from bed difficult. Lighting was poor in the bathroom and the bathroom layout could use work.
Pros: Richard Spacey (Cruise Director) and his staff
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