Independace of the Seas

The check in for the cruise was quick and efficient. Our room was ready soon after getting on the ship. Our bags arrived in good time as well. My friend did book a balcony room and if I were to cruise again I think I would spend the extra money for one. It was nice and big and had a lot of space on the balcony. The reason I gave this cruise a poor score was that the food and coffee was not up to par. I have been on three other cruises and one was on the same line and the food was good on that one but awful on this ship. I don't know if it is a new policy for RC to now charge extra for steak and for a lobster tail during formal night ($27.00 for steak and $30 for lobster). My friend cruises a lot, over 10 times, and this was the first cruise that charged for dinner in the main dining room during formal night. My sister ordered a strip steak from the menu and it was the worst steak I have ever had on a cruise. It had a funky taste like it was fake? The main buffet was just as bad. It was the same food everyday at the buffet and was barely editable. I'm not a person that is very picky about food but I was amazed how bad it really was. I wish the ship had more restaurants that were included in the price. I also noticed the crew seemed not as friendly as other cruises I had been on. Maybe tipping ahead makes some not as friendly knowing they will receive a tip regardless. I am a great tipper as I work for them myself and there seems to be less personal care from certain crew members. I am glad I have had good cruises in the past because if this was my first one, I wouldn't cruise again.