I'm going again with the in laws in December. As first time cruisers, I know they will absolutely love it.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Incredibly fast and smooth.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
A few years back, the food tasted better. Now? The buffet is bland. All desserts were not good. Most dressing and condiments don't taste like real food. Stews or slow cooked meals had superior taste and seasoning compared to their main meaty dishes. Fruit, drinks, deli cuts and chees were ok. Main dining had a slight taste advantage. Definitely could taste a little more care to the tenderness and seasoning in meats. Everything else tasted similar to buffet. Drinks were still delicious, but prices have increased. Also Royal needs creamer flavorings for coffee. As for service, staff are just there. Tired. Few smiles. Saw same faces working multiple positions.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
We participated in everything that was free. From jacuzzi to rock climbing to gym and trivia. Yet there simply wasn't enough. Felt crowded and lines were long. In previous years, there was more staff to operate more events, allowing more seat availability.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Night club music was on and off good. DJ was not reading the room. To busy trying new transitions or techniques that killed the vibe. Most performers looked tired and often out of sync. No longer do we see royals boldness or thrilling stunts inside the skating rink or dance routines. New motto is play it safe. Previous years, previous staff had more talent, motivation, seemed passionate and supported. This cruise felt lazily choreographed.
Children's Programs
Didn't bring kids
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
They were all wonderful, but were not over the top excellent like before. Few smile, few interactions, many looked tired and expressionless. Unmotivated.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Ship has not changed. At all. Very well maintained. And no decoration for memorial weekend. Sad.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
As expected. Efficient space within restrictions. Pull down beds were a bit stiff but adequate. Fan in room needs better circulation in interior cabin. Ladder were bit small but sturdy. One free movie channel on the tv. Water was great. Hallway sensor light is very helpful. Adequate storage space. We asked for more pillows, blankets, towels, all was great.
Ship tip
If this is your first time, SHE'S AMAZING. If you're a seasoned navigator, she's matured: Older, safer, tired, loosing her luster, her taste buds, conversation skills--definitely a cruise for the retired only.
We didn't do an excursion. We ventured deeper into the streets. Their skatepark needs desperate help. Their skate shop sold mostly clothes! Food and drinks was decent but overpriced. Island got too crowded by noon. Their local Vons was a great place for decent desserts and cheap drinks.
Very touristic, but don't walk alone when venturing away, almost got mugged. But the local cathedral was worth the slight adventure. Royal won't let you bring food on board. If the food looks good, the officials keep it. We decided to share with the locals instead.
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