While we really liked the smaller size ship and lack of crowds or lines, the exceedingly older make up of the passengers did not translate into the "mature sophistication" experience we expected, but rather a somewhat depressing atmosphere instead. Although we were not looking for exciting nightlife activities or karaoke contests, finding interesting contemporaries on-board was almost impossible. And for a cruise line that touts its food as much as it does, the cuisine and any food-related activities was disappointing.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Based on promise of "The Finest Cuisine at Sea," we expected a better dining experience. Although generally of high quality, dishes were of uneven preparation, somewhat limited selection and variety, and repetitive. Service, however, was consistently excellent.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Not many activities offered beyond a few "enrichment lectures" and daily trivia contests. Pool is very nice and never crowded.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Musical nights were understated but enjoyable, avoiding the "over-the-top" Broadway-style production numbers attempted on other cruise lines. Magician and comedian were OK, but more throw-back than contemporary.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Outstanding staff and service.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Recently renovated and remodeled, it felt new, clean and very comfortable.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Bright and freshly remodeled, the cabin was reasonably comfortable but small, as was the uncomfortably small shower.
Ship tip
Although the ship is on the smaller end, it never seems crowded and there's never a wait or line for anything. However, the passengers were overwhelmingly older, retired seniors which resulted in a somewhat depressing atmosphere one might expect at a nursing home. Although we are in our 60s ourselves, we felt we were definitely "the young crowd" and very much in the minority. Perfect for peace and quiet, but if you're looking to meet people and make friends under 70, this is not the cruise for you.
If you want a day at the pool or beach, this is an excellent "private island" port. Beyond that, not much of interest and all food and drinks on the island are extra, not included, a fact not really advertised until you get there.
With 4 ships in port, 2 of which were mega-sized, there were about 15,000 cruise passengers to contend with. Best option is to taxi into the nearby town, Mahahual, for a relatively uncrowded beach-side tourist shopping/dining day.
Process and speed relatively positive and faster than past experiences on other lines, but one of our bags was picked up by another passenger and port personnel were not very helpful in locating and returning it. Ultimately, by contacting someone else from the company hired by Oceania to handle port operations, they were able to track down the suitcase and have it returned to the port where, as I live in Miami, I was able to retrieve it.
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