Five nights was a good length for a quick getaway. The weekday sailing while schools are not on any kind of break, kept the number of children moderate. You take a chance on the weather being windy. The ship is so comfortable and manageable. If you like to relax and be on the ocean and eat well, you'll enjoy it. Musicians were superb. If chipped paint here and there bothers you, choose another ship.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Chose 2:30 boarding time, walked right in. Cabin was ready, bag arrived at my door well before dinnertime.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Good variety and very tasty. Chops and Izumi were very good. Buffet is crowded at breakfast but you get used to it. Any issue you have, merely tell a server and they will fix it.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
I love the rock-climbing wall, depending on weather, they even offer it "under the stars." Solarium pool was very pleasant. Fitness center looked very nicely appointed. The family egg drop was a lot of fun.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
There's something for everyone. I did not go to any shows. A variety of good live music, Entourage Duo was guitar and violin duo who were outstanding. I attended every set, they were that good.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
Your wish is their command, really. Cabin steward was like a friend. Waiters were very engaging, what they lacked in finer details, they made up for in attentiveness. Bar service was rather slow, due mostly to the incredibly cumbersome POS system. Nail technician was good. Both the cruise director and the art auction lady had the most irritating speaking voices. Royal needs to invest in speech coaching, as English is not their first language and it is just awful the way they sound, on other ships as well.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Ship was extremely clean. You can walk the entire teak promenade barefoot and your feet stay clean. If you are looking for imperfections, you will find them. This ship has been ocean-going for 25+ years so cannot be pristine. Window glass was pretty salt-crusted. The ship has considerable vibration in the aft section. I would not chance having a cabin in that area.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Cabin was perfect for a solo traveller. Everything worked properly. Shower is small, as expected. Plenty of storage; one drawer was balky but it still functioned. Very little wear, of course the decor is dated. Very comfortable bed and linens and you sleep so well in the cocoon of an interior cabin.
Ship tip
Seek out the excellent musical performances, and kindly give respect to the musicians by not talking loudly.
Strolled around on my own. Lots of history and unique places near the pier. The Key West Art Center (est.1960) had local artists. The sculpture garden next to Mallory Square is a must-see.
Dragon's Tail coaster was fun, the all-day pass is worth it because you definitely want to ride more than once. The Dragon's Breath zip-line was not the most thrilling I've been on, but still fun and worthwhile. There are several small beaches to choose from, and bars set up nearby. Everything was clean and well-maintained, again, these facilities aren't brand new. Burgers etc. for lunch were decent.
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