Unique bucket list experience...a must for cruisers who love sea days!

Item: Serenade of the Seas
Rating: 4.1
Author: cwu822

Serenade of the Seas Cruise Review

cwu822

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 4-6 cruises

Reviews: 2

Helpful Votes: 38

Overall rating:

4.1 out of 5

13 Night Panama Canal Eastbound (Los Angeles To Miami)

Sail date: October 01, 2021

Ship: Serenade of the Seas

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 8616

Traveled as: Family (older children)

Reviewed: 3 years ago

Review summary

I am not a frequent Royal Caribbean cruiser, but this cruise met most of my expectations. Dining and customer service were excellent. Activities were average, not the most boring or exciting. The most disappointing aspects of my cruise were the cancelled port of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua (no compensation given by Royal Caribbean) and the rude spa manager. Overall, it was a relaxing cruise and an eye-opening way to experience the Panama Canal.

Embarkation

3 out of 5

At the Port of Los Angeles, there was a short line but no AC as we and our carry-on luggage went through the security, located in a covered tent. After entering the building, the people helping us check-in were kind and happy, but were not experienced in using the tablets for check-in...some standing around while they had to ask someone more experienced for help.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

4 out of 5

Food and drinks tasted great. Some food items from the first week were repeated during the second week. Windjammer closed for dinner.

Onboard Activities

3 out of 5

There were a variety of seminars to attend (Panama Canal, Thomas Kinkade artist, detox for weight loss, etc). The outdoor Latin dance class on sea days was cancelled or cut short many times due to rain, wish they would have had an indoor venue as backup.

Entertainment

4 out of 5

Enjoyed the comedian juggler and pianist Craig Dahn's show.

Service and Staff

4 out of 5

Most of the crew working on the ship were friendly and kind. The personal trainer, hairstylist, and dining staff at MDR and Windjammer were top notch. The spa manager is unpleasant to talk to and is definitely not a people person.

Ship Quality

4 out of 5

Pretty clean and well maintained considering the age. Ran into the same person multiple times cleaning the restrooms near the elevator lobby on the sea days. The crew are definitely cleaning the ship daily.

Cabin / Stateroom

4 out of 5

Good location near elevators, Centrum and main dining room.