First cruise ever, and couldn't have been better

Jewel of the Seas Cruise Review to Caribbean - Southern

RoyalCdnCruiser

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)

Reviews: 2

Helpful Votes: 45

Overall rating:

5 out of 5

Southern Caribbean Holiday

Sail date: March 14, 2015

Ship: Jewel of the Seas

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 9546

Traveled as: Family (young children)

Reviewed: 9 years ago

Review summary

Very glad we picked this itinerary and this ship for our first cruise! We were worried about getting motion-sick, but that turned out to be a non-event -- the motion of the boat was barely perceptible! Every member of the crew that we'd interacted with was extremely professional, helpful and cheerful and gave us all the time and attention we asked for (which, of course, we tried not to abuse!). Accommodations were larger than I'd expected. The ship was in great condition inside and out. Food options rivalled those of an all-inclusive resort, both in terms of restaurants and the food itself. Kids loved the "clubs" and activities. The amount of organization and logistics that goes on behind the scenes is mind-boggling, particularly when embarking and disembarking and having luggage delivered to/from one's stateroom.

The only disappointment for us was the relatively late change of the itinerary -- we were supposed to reach St. Thomas as our first island, but instead ended up in St. Croix. We still had a good time on the beach and exploring the shops. The beaches in St. Maarten and Barbados are absolutely beautiful, and we had a blast exploring Basseterre, St. Kitts past the typical tourist areas.

If it weren't for the fact we like to explore new places all the time, we'd definitely go back on this cruise/route. And we'll certainly be sailing with Royal in the future :)