I enjoyed the cruise very much. It was a fantastic deal. Basically paid solo inside rate and got a full sized balcony cabin. Out of this world scenery on our Dawes Glacier, Endicott Arm Fjord, and Inside Passage Day. Despite a port change due to bad weather, the itinerary was still great.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Pretty smooth. But the check of our COVID test results seemed pretty cursory, which is a little off putting. Made concerned that they are probably allowing some invalid results in carelessly.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Good food overall. Main dining dinner prime rib was somewhat bland.
Wonderland dinner was good but not worth the price tag.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Not enough outdoor space. Limited walking areas, especially when outside decks were closed due to the weather.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
Generally good overall. A few unhappy/sullen looking folks here and there (especially serving in the buffet), but never bad service per se.
Toward the end of the voyage, there were a few awkward plugs from waitstaff for good reviews on the post-cruise survey. I don’t mind them asking/reminding me to share good feedback, but I find it a bit crass to specifically ask for a certain rating. Also, a brief reminder is sufficient. I don’t need a whole speech. Rubbed me the wrong way. Don’t remember this happening on any other cruise I’ve been on (all with other lines). Hope it’s not a sign that the line is putting undue pressure on them as a result of whatever ratings they get or do not get.
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
Because I sailed during COVID, capacity was well under normal, and the ship was pleasant enough. But the public areas seem so small for a ship this size. I would never want to sail her with a full load. There are too many dead ends and choke points. (There’s practically no walkway at all to get through the Bionic Bar, for example.) It’s not a nice ship to just stroll around. The outside space is also much more limited than I’m used to versus other lines’ ships. Too much prime real estate is taken up by the flow rider and North Star! The best thing about the ship design is the pandas. 🐼
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Took off a star for the uncomfortable bed. Too firm, at least for me. Otherwise, great cabin. Spacious. Very clean and well maintained. Nice bathroom with good shower.
Ship tip
Sail her at low capacity if you can! Cafe @ 270 is an excellent alternative to avoid the Windjammer queues at breakfast.
Thanks for the review. I've been on a few RC cruises and never had crew ask me for a good review. Hopefully you had an atypical experience. Glad you enjoyed your cruise, if not the ship.
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