Pleasantly surprised. A fun cruise on a smaller (2400 pax) ship. When sailing in the winter be prepared for some colder days at sea. That said, plenty to do all over the ship. Staff was great and accommodating. Room steward (Moses) kept our cabin neat and clean. Every crew member was friendly. Food was good and evening entertainment was abundant and professional. Would gladly sail on the Grandeur again.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Embarked in Port of Baltimore, long lines-took 20-25 minutes to get reach the agent's counter. Once there, we were through in less than 5 minutes. Numerous RCL employees moving people along.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Did "My Time" dining. Restaurant staff in the Main Dining Room were wonderful, smiling, helpful, courteous and professional. Ate at Chop's Grille once. One of the best (petite filet mignon) dinners I have had anywhere in a long, long time. Buffets were plentiful and continually stocked. Something for everyone.
Viking Crown Lounge
5 out of 5
Located on Deck 11, very quiet during the day and bit more active at night. Great views, live and recorded music and, of course, a bar.
Schooner Bar
5 out of 5
Spent a good deal of time here. Aside from the bar, it was the location for numerous trivia contests during the day and became a piano bar at night. Nice outdoor views as well.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Activities galore. Something going on all the time, from early morning to late at night. Fitness, Casino, solarium, shows, lounge acts, trivia contests (we won two of them) The Quest (18+) activity, egg dropping contest, make your own airplane, 70's show in the Centrum. What fun!!
Jogging Track
3 out of 5
Located outside the ship on Deck 10. Outdoor tracks are only good when the weather is accommodating. We had several days of wind and cold making it nearly impossible to use the track. The alternative is using the treadmills in the Fitness Center.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Stage shows were entertaining. Musicians were top notch. Puck the Magician was great. David Naster, a comedian, was outstanding with 2 regular shows and one mid-day presentation about how laughter can help heal and deal.
Centrum
5 out of 5
Center of the cruise universe. Some sort of entertainment going on here almost all the time. Lots of comfortable seats and a bar.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our wait staff in the My Time Main Dining Room, Lafane and her assistant Fernando were beyond great. Service, meal suggestions, sense of humor, courteous, professional and likeability were ever-present. Raj and his assistant Vishal were welcoming, friendly, and courteous. The Cruise Director Mike S. was one, if not, the best Cruise Director we have ever encountered. He always mingled with passengers, worked the pre-show crowds, sang (?) lip-synced, performed magic tricks and told jokes. He had a great sense of humor and didn’t take himself seriously. He made the trip.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Although an older ship, it was laid out nicely. Easy to get everywhere. Common areas were clean and well maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Inside cabins are for those who are looking to save a bit of money or who only want to use it to sleep and change their clothes. A bit tight when moving around but still a good deal. Functionally, it is laid out well. If you have sailed before you know what to expect.
Ship tip
All the cabin walls on cruise ships are metal. Bring heavy duty wall magnets with hooks with you. You can hang your clothes literally on the walls. Makes for more living space.
Have been to Baltimore many times. Lots to see and do. Inner Harbor and the surrounding area are chock full of museums, shops and entertainment options.
Wonderful stop. First-time visitors. Take a carriage ride and learn about the past, present architecture, food, living etc. Side excursions to Fort Sumter, walking/guided tours of the historic area are also worthwhile.
A guided tour of the Kennedy Space Center is a must. I would pass on the Day at Disney excursion. It is costly and travel time to/from the ship cuts into your day. You can't possibly do the visit justice and feel you got your money's worth while rushing (standing in lines and eating) to see as much as you can. Save a trip to Disneyworld for another time when you aren't on the clock!
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