Overall, the cruise was satisfactory but not half as good as it was prior to the refurbishment. The entertainment was superb. Two huge theatrical productions, comics, unicyclists, movies. Could not have been better. There are just not enough seats in the theater and too many people saving rows of seats for friends. The same was true poolside. [The day we were on Princess Cay, people saved 10 chaises in front of us and left the ship. Not nice but happens on every ship we have been on.] They started dumping stuff abandoned on chaises after 40 minutes. But it was not the same for everyone. Either do it for all; or do not bother. There are not enough chaises in the shade either. Not everyone wants skin cancer!!
OK - Dining. The food ranged from excellent to fair. Some items were wonderful and the new Pizza Lounge near the International Pastry /Sandwich /Salad area is terrific. This is new for this ship. Dining service was slow for almost all tables in the Traditional Dining Room (Botticelli), but servers were pleasant and friendly.
Our cabin steward was great - thanks Elmer! Cabins were a bit worn or shabby but had everything we needed. Cons: Our first assigned table was in a dark hot corner of Botticelli where chairs wobbled because they were half on carpet and half on flooring. We got that table moved the second night. Chef needs to add some seasoning to certain items. Bland was the word. All ships should serve the James Beard Crunchy French Toast they had on the Emerald - it was to die for but was not available on the Grand. I hope on their next new ship, they find a better way to get to the main dining room instead of using just two elevators of the 6.
Also con: Just not enough time in port. Only a few hours in Curacao and no shuttle service to get into town (expensive taxis only) on their "short 8 mile walk." The ship seemed to be in a rush to get to Princess Cay where those who were aged or informed could not tender so that was a waste for many guests. Some good time spent in Aruba but the other two stops were a rush. This was not a great itinerary. But we just wanted to get away.
