Working with Dawn at cruise.com was amazing. We felt like we had a private concierge. She staying in touch with us before, and after the cruise helping us with everything and knowledgeably answering all of our questions. We will cruise with you again.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Fastest we have ever boarded. Lunch was prepared and waiting. We didn't get our bags until 7pm, but we expected this and had our swimsuits packed in our carry on. I did end up dining in my boarding clothes but I would guess that based on the way most guests were attired that they had their luggage sooner.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The ships crew work very hard to keep everything clean and operating as advertised.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We dined outside at sunset. The burgers were great, the onion rings outstanding and the service everything you hope for on a Royal Caribbean ship. Other than thoughtless passengers in the dining areas, my only complaint about any of the dining on this cruise was the coffee. I love coffee and after day one at sea I switched to tea. If you love burnt tasting coffee you will love the stuff they serve on the ship.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Both my husband and I spent some time with the on-board plastic surgeon. Botox and dermal fillers for me and thermage for him. Doctor Martin is a skilled practitioner (formerly from Miami) who does a great job explaining and an even better job of treating. We both came home looking almost 10 years younger. Our friends have no idea and just assume we are well rested.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
We particularly were impressed with the ice skating show. Very professional and entertaining. The live music shows were also very well done.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our cabin steward, Delores was a gem! We did not have a single negative encounter with any of the ships personnel. This international group of service providers are well trained and eager to make your vacation special. If I had one negative comment it would be that loud speaker attendants be chosen who do not have heavily accented English. In almost every announcement (other than by the Captain) we only understood a word or two.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
As with our other sailings we have found that the more economical the cruise the more diverse the passengers. We are constantly shocked by how disgusting some guests are. From dirty diapers left on the deck to plates and glasses scattered willy-nilly all over the ship. The crew works very hard to stay on top of everything, but alas some of these dirty-nasty people need a dedicated cleaner to follow behind them.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
A great value room that we spent very little time in. The bed and pillow were comfortable the linens were very good, and it was always immaculate (thanks in part to our tidy ways, but mostly to Deloris who came in twice a day and made it perfect, often with a cute little towel animal).
Ship tip
Don't waste your money on the all inclusive drink package. You have to drink a LOT to get your money's worth and your fellow passenger and travel companion will all appreciate you not being drunk. Mid-cruise we were offered a very affordable option of a 10 drink punch-card at significant savings.
Very busy seaside town with a lot of traffic. Be prepared to pay high prices for parking on the beach or historic downtown (about $12 per parking). Wide assortment of restaurants. Great places for birders, particularly in March and April. We found a charming airbnb with Cara for before and after our cruise and were able to keep our car on her property.
The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory that restricted ferry rides over to the mainland. We were worried that our cruise.com shore excursion would not be reimbursed since we only found out about the restriction the day before we made port. Cruise.com refunded us the entire excursion amount.
Seven mile beach was voted in 2017 as the best beach in the world. You should visit (but not on a Segway like we did). The safety equipment was still wet and sweaty from the former guests and we spent a ton of very valuable time getting ready/trained up and then seeing sights that weren't of great interest. In hind-sight we would have spent the day at the amazing beach. Drinks are expensive! 1 long island ice tea was $24.
With an ongoing recession since 2007 we would highly recommend that you choose a reputable tour group and not go unescorted about the Island. The waterfalls, blue hole and tubing are spectacular and unique.
I am sure the ship does it's best to make this process smooth, however....it was not. Be prepared for confusion and long lines and the same thoughtless people who were not a joy to spend time with during the cruise.
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