This was first Royal Caribbean cruise after several on Carnival on similar sized ships. We found them to be comparable in food and entertainment. The vibe is definitely more sedate on the Serenade which was fine with us and the cruise director was not as visible nor as energetic as what we are used to on Carnival. We will cruise Royal again when the opportunity arises. It was a relaxing environment with generally good service.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Very quick and efficient embarkation process
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Main dining room food was good, but nothing outstanding as was the buffet. The service was excellent though we tired a bit of the hard sell to give them a good rating on the survey. My husband really enjoyed the lamb shank and their salmon dishes were good. Avoid the prime rib! We liked that there were many two place tables.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
We really enjoyed the Solarium, comfortable and not too crowded. The fitness center was well equipped.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The musical shows were good, the comedian/magician not so much.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
We had great main dining room waiters, they would recognize and speak to us regardless of when and where we saw them on the ship. I think our room steward was new and not real impressive. Kept telling us how many cabins he had to take care of and seemed overwhelmed.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The Serenade was easy to get around on and well appointed and clean. We enjoy the more intimate feel of the smaller ships.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
This was our first time in an ocean view cabin (either interior or balconies in the past) and we were pleasantly surprised with the feel and experience. The beds were too firm for our taste and the pillows rather large and firm as well, but that is personal preference. The shower was nice, good water pressure and temperature. Plenty of storage. It was a connecting cabin (guarantee cabin that was assigned to us) but we never heard a peep from the adjoining cabin. We enjoyed our time in the cabin.
Ship tip
If you are someone who likes to use the main dining room for your meals, we found our location in 3014 perfect. Just a few steps down the hall and one flight up to meals. And just a few steps to the elevators that takes you right outside the Windjammer on deck 11.
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