At about 1100 in the morning we took a shuttle to the ship. Check-in was slow, but we were advised that was due boarding had not yet commenced. At check-in we had a very uncomfortable experience in that we could not board without handing in our passports, something we are not keen to do. We were given various unacceptable explanations, due fact that 2 months ago we did virtually the same cruise, from Italy, with another company, and we were not requested to deposit our passports. We asked for a manager, or someone in charge and a Customer Service Agent, from Royal Caribbean came and told us it was not necessary to hand in our passports since we did not need visas to any of the countries. His explanation that the authorities check all the passports seemed to be a slight exaggeration of the facts. He went on to say if we did not mind being woken every morning by customs, we could hold our passports. He then did a 360 about face and told us he was not prepared to give us this option, and we could not board without handing over our passports. A pretty poor show, we thought. Don't give the customer an option if it does not exist. We then spoke to a senior security officer who gave us his personal word that nothing could or would go wrong, and that the passports would be returned the day before we disembarked. I purposely have not named them, but have recorded their names.

We then boarded, and waited till 1300 to get our room, quite an acceptable procedure, with all the public facilities as well as food halls open for our convenience.

Our stateroom, 8th floor with balcony was larger than what we have had in the past, with a larger than usual size bathroom, with a user friendly shower cubicle and not shower curtains. sink and plenty of mirrors and storage space. No shampoo and conditioner, something which was stated as being in our rooms, our cabin attendant said the shampoo and conditioner now comes mixed together -- not good for those of us who like to use only conditioner. 2 small bars of cheap smelling soap are supplied on the first day, one more five days later-- no more. The room itself boasts more than ample cupboard, storage space and endless mirrors, What can I say, large double bed, sofa bed, mini-fridge, vanity table, lights, mirrors; only thing lacking is a small kettle with cups for early coffee in bed, but as I never leave home without my kettle and coffee --no problem.Another point, mini bar with drinks but no glasses are supplied. Read more