Very Nice Cruise
Independence of the Seas Cruise Review to Europe - Northern Europe
8 Night Norwegian Fjords (Southampton Roundtrip)
Sail date: May 20, 2018
Ship: Independence of the Seas
Cabin type: Oceanview
Cabin number: 2568
Traveled as: Family (older children)
Reviewed: 5 years ago
Review summary
This was an enjoyable cruise for our family. The weather going north wasn't always friendly, but we were blessed with glorious (and from what we hear unusual) weather in Geiranger, Flam, and Stavanger. The staff on the cruise were wonderful. Our food was spacious. Our kids did not like the very small bunk bed quarters, but they go through it. We enjoyed the entertainment particularly the ice show and Grease. The food was good and bad. Some of the food was very tasty and fresh, and some things not so tasty and stale. I think they offer so much variety, that they can't maintain quality in all of the food. If you are a seafood lover, this is definitely the cruise for you. And all of it was very good. One major complaint that we had though was the lack of seating during peak times at the buffet Windjammer. Many times, our family could not find a table during breakfast and lunch. It was very, very frustrating. People are supposed to clear tables after eating, but they don't and none of the staff is really on top of that. They make an announcement that no on listens to so not sure how they can solve this, but it is definitely an issue. This cruise during May is not the cruise to plan for swimming, etc. On the days we had nice weather, it was warm enough to swim, but while moving out to sea it was very cold and windy. We found it strange that they take a ship made for warmer climates to colder destinations. But again, some people did get enjoyment out of the water activities. One thing I did like was all the walking we had to do on the ship. But if you don't like to walk for food, stay at the back or stern side of the ship where the Windjammer was located. The workout room is fantastic with wonderful views. This was several floors above our room so on the aft side. We enjoyed this on the days we were cruising at sea. Overall, we would recommend this ship, cruise line and sail to Norway. The fjords in Geiranger and Flam alone are worth going for.Embarkation
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Windjammer Marketplace
I would have liked to see more variety in the snack area. Yes, the cruise has all you can eat, but they lack things like chips, pretzels and popcorn. I was also in search of a pack of gum and could not find it on this ship. They do have a few items like Pringles and crackers, but not a bag of pretzels anywhere. Sometimes you just don't want a sweet or fruit for a snack!
Sorrento's Pizza
Our family split several times because not all of use wanted the same thing. My husband and daughter enjoyed the pizza here a few nights.
Johnny Rockets
My husband (who did not like most of the food on the ship), went here several times. He also went for a malt or milkshake for dessert.
Main Dining Room
The atmosphere here is calming as opposed to the craziness of the Windjammer buffet. The food is good, but some of it does come from the Windjammer buffet bar. A couple of the main entrees are created special from the food off the Windjammer bar, but they are good. You will not get too much food here as it is just right. Also, they serve cheesecake here as an option here that you never see on the buffet until the last evening when they offer every cake imaginable as a last bang.
Cafe Promenade
Nice place on the Royal Promenade deck to get a snack and espresso style drinks for a price.
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
If you want to be near dining, choose a room on the stern side.