This was our first cruise with Royal Caribbean. After comparing other cruise lines loyalty programs we will be staying with Royal.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Even though there was a fog delay and we were over 5 hours late to board, I give 5 stars. We begin receiving emails about 9am warning of the possible delays. And while the hourly updates weren't able to provide additional, because there wasn't any, they were still much appreciated. When we arrived at the terminal, we easily handed over our luggage so we could explore the neighboring streets. We were done before the proposed 5pm new boarding time and to our surprise we were able to begin the check-in process. We were next inline to get our room keys and photos taken when a firm worker halted all new cruisers from approaching the desk. Within 10 mins we learned the upstairs waiting area was full and the desk staff all came out to talk to us still waiting in line. Other staff members passed out water and chips. While little gestures, these went a long way in my book.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
On the two "fancy nights" we partook in the my time dining. Both times we were seated within 5 mins and had the two same two guys. These guys worked tirelessly to ensure everyone had exactly what they wanted. The menu options offered numerous selections that caused me to move out of my comfort zone and I was not disappointed.
Most of our meals were enjoyed from the buffet line and in the main dining area. I liked knowing the staple items would always be there. Sitting intentional in various sections to see all parts of the boat and the different staff members, I was amazed at how they worked so well together; cleaning, clearing, and still taking the time to have quick conversations with those individuals the staff recognized.
The only thing I would rate down was the soft serve ice cream machine. While I don't need it, I was saddened to see that it CLOSED at 9pm or numerous times that the one machine could not keep up with the demand.
Café Promenade
4 out of 5
Again during busy times there was only one person working. This was especially painful when there was a line for the specialty coffees.
Schooner Bar
5 out of 5
While not very big alcohol drinkers, we spent a lot of time here playing the trivia games. I want to commend the bar staff for not pushing the alcohol on us or making is feel unwelcome because we were not making purchases.
Sorrento's Pizza
4 out of 5
During the busy times there was only one person staffed.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Still young at heart but, in our early 40s, we like to try everything. We went down each slide once, play 9 holes of golf with children's putters because too many other adults were playing, played $10 in the arcade, sent the free $5 in the casino and $20 of our money, and went to nearly all the shows.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
I enjoyed them and you could see the hard work they had invested.
Even the cruise director and his wife, who I felt they seemed fake, proved me wrong as I witnessed on more than one occasion them interacting with past guest participants.
Children's Programs
We left the kids at home
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our room steward was awesome and personable. Rodney made quick appreciated efforts to interact with us. We felt bad requesting ice one-time but proclaimed it was no problem and from the first day on we had fresh ice twice a day.
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
I realize it is hard to keep up with so many people in the main dining hall but I wished there was a bit more attention to detail, walls next to tables retained spills.
The common bathrooms were kept tidy.
I appreciated the ventalation in the non smoking parts of the casino. Because we liked to walk all over, the smoking decks were well thought out.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Loved all the storage areas; in the bathroom and desk mirrors. This helped keep our small room organized.
Not biggies
The fridge didn't get cold enough.
Wished the shower drained a bit faster a couple times I worried about it going out on the floor.
Ship tip
There are a lot of opportunities onboard but, you can do as much or as little as you want.
Pace yourself when eating
The port itself was nice but at least an hour away from most excursions. We spent 3 hours of our day getting there and back. Our tour bus stopped in Ochos Rios at a gift shop and we did not feel safe getting off.
Glad you enjoyed your cruise. I agree, Royal does offer one of the best loyalty programs. Top tiers get credit towards a free cruise, something I haven't seen with other cruiselines. I just hate that they cut double points for suites.
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