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We cruised from Tampa for the first time,embarking was fine- In our balcony room by 1:30 and our checked bag arrived fine. We have been on Enchantment twice so that was our point of reference. Enchantment was stretched in staterooms but not public rooms making Windjammer and theater crowded. Not a problem on the Jewel- always room in theater and Windjammer seemed to be designed better and less crowded.
Ate all evening meals in dining room- enjoyed the presentation and different selection but would consider the quality as upscale banquet- nothing wrong with that, just don't except gourmet. A little known place for lunch on sea days because it is listed just under snacks in the compass is the Sea View Cafe on deck 12. The best fish chips we think we have ever had. It is also opened after early sail away days so we ate there again at 2pm after a 1pm sail away. There is of course the dining room for the famous tutti salad- buffet salad prepared for you and then chopped.We did that on the other sea day.
The solarium is a great place to read, play cards for adults only.
The casino is in bad need of an upgrade. The smaller Enchantment was far superior to the Jewels.The machines are either old, not working, using quarters still and some new but not operating. There were a handful of slots to really be used with the ticket in ticket out.
The production numbers by the RC singers and dancers was outstanding. The broadway review was a 1 hour non stop with major costume and set changes and all 12 performers were excellent. Other evening acts were well done.
As for port stops- Cozumel- pushy shopkeepers, ship 5 miles from town and taxi's needed. Been there, done that.
Key West- City Trolley ride gave us a nice snapshot of the town which was the only way to see it with our short 8am-12:30 stop. Really should make KW a longer stop.
Debarkation in Tampa was quick and efficient, made even easier by using Crown and Anchor waiting area in dining room which is offered to even gold members.
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