Nice step in the right direction. Biggest gripe is the "bubble effect." Everyone is tested prior to sailing. Crew is tested. Most have been vaccinated. Why the hell are we still required to wear a mask while traversing throughout the ship? Little difficult to breathe when you're climbing 70 flights of steps per day. 3 little pigs could have saved their homes if the wolf had to wear a mask.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Smooth, like a hot knife through butter.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Main dining was good. Nothing jumped out as outstanding but all were up to expectations. No real disappointments.
Decided to give Izumi a go this trip. Extremely happy we did. The Hibachi experience was the "experience." Filet, shrimp and lobster were prepared to perfection. They must have been trolling for the sushi because it was both fresh and tasty. Shout out to Elmer the "fake" Japanese chef from South Phili...as in Southern Philippines.
As many others have noted, self serve buffets are as easily found onboard as a vaquita.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Trivia was entertaining if at times a bit corny. I swear some people spent the night in their seats. Who needs to go out on Black Friday? Cruising is a perfect substitute for people watching.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
All shows were very good. I am always amazed at the skill of the ice skaters. To do what they do on blades attached to their feet on mostly solid but at some places, melting ice. Throw in the rolls and occasional broach of the ship during arial maneuvers and spins and how can one not have a newfound appreciation of their commitment to their profession.
Grease was a great performance even if it didn't follow the true storyline of the original.
The comedy shows were very funny. Nice that we were able to escape the depressive environment of our societies and make time to laugh
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
One word...OUTSTANDING!
The staff and crew all exhibit a renewed appreciation for the opportunity to get back to work. They may not have great wages or great living arrangements but they do understand that it beats the alternative. We are as critical to their employment as they are to our enjoyment. Anyone reading this - please remember that. Show them your appreciation. Be thankful. If we can afford a cruise, I'm pretty confident we can afford showing them our appreciation.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Size was adequate for what was required. Enough storage for needs. Biggest downside was VERY limited electrical outlets. If you want to unplug - mission accomplished but it is a paradox given RCL does promote and strongly encourage use of it's mobile app.
Ship tip
Enjoy! Nice intro into one of their larger ship offerings. Although we have sailed on smaller ships, it was the Freedom class that hooked us on the possibilities offered by this and it's sister ships. Personally, she's nice for a short ride but 7 or more, I'll stick with Oasis for now.
I think Port Canaveral has the greatest disembarkation facility in the country. The only thing that could make it better is if they could transport my luggage and myself from the ship to my car without having to take the elevators on the ship.
That facial recognition thing...scary at times but sure is efficient.
We were on the Independence 6 years ago loved it except for the medical dept husband didn't feel good they ended sending us to a private hospital. They couldn't find anything wrong with him but wouldn't sign him out. When we got back to the ship our luggage was on the dock we were left stranded in Jamaica. Never got any money back, even though I had played for decorations and a cake for our 50 wedding anniversary.
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