Overall, the best ship sailing from Galveston, Texas. It has some choke points that make it feel crowded in areas but it also has a lot of fun activities and entertainment. I look forward to RCI bringing a new ship to Galveston! The food is adequate but mediocre in taste...nothing memorable to look forward to on future sailings. Standard staterooms are well laid out and comfortable although the beds could be softer.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Once inside the building, embarkation was simple and fast. Having to circle through the congested drop off area in order to access the north covered parking lot was a fiasco.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Food was adequate but not memorable. The buffet was always congested and is poorly laid out creating several choke points. There is no start to lines so it feels more like a disorganized free-for-all than orderly distribution of food.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Activities are top notch and why people cruise on Royal Caribbean!
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The ice skating and water shows were both incredible. The performers are very talented. The musicians do a great job all over the ship as well.
Children's Programs
We do not have kids
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The staff exceeded expectations in every way!
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
Fun ship with a lot to offer but the layout has way too many choke points that create crowded areas that limit flow of movement.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Great layout and storage options. One of the largest showers at sea for a standard balcony cabin and it has a shaving bar and hooks inside it for washcloths, etc. The attendant did an incredible job keeping the cabin clean but the air conditioning system blows out a lot of dust which set off my husband's allergies (it is the same on every Royal C. ship we've been on though.
Ship tip
Don't spend extra money to eat at Chops Steakhouse...save it and eat at a nice steakhouse on land that serves better quality food.
The cruise port is a long way from any airports (45 minute drive minimum) but the city of Galveston is a great place to enjoy pre/post cruise and is ideal for locals.
The eastern side of the island is remarkably beautiful and deserted. It doesn't feel like a tourist trap at all unless you try to eat at one of the few beach front cafes which cost a fortune! This is a safe place to rent a vehicle (not a scooter!) and explore so you can adventure to the east side and see the real tropical island.
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