We had never sailed on a transatlantic cruise before, but this was our third time on the Independence of the Seas.
Embarkation at Southampton was busy, we arrived shortly before lunch and it seemed that 75% of our fellow passengers all had the same idea! Whilst we did encounter some waiting, we were processed quickly and were on-board and in the Windjammer within an hour.
We were pleased to see that the Independence was still in good shape and looked clean and tidy. Our balcony cabin, 7556 on Deck 7 was in good order and as expected. We were fortunate to find out,(by luck rather than choice) that we had the sun on our side of the ship all of the way across the Atlantic. The cabin location was great, not too far from the lifts and we didn't hear much noise at all.
Cabin : 7556 (deck 7) Balcony Cabin. Good location, 7 cabins to the lift access area. Quiet location, minimal noise from neighbours.
Outside balcony area adequate with 2 chairs and a table. Extremely pleasant overall.
We travelled as a couple, so the closet space was very spacious. Closet across from the bathroom. Plenty of hanging space, plenty of shelving. Easy to access safe at adult height, this is located inside of the closet.
Bathroom is nicely appointed with an enclosed shower (no clingy curtain). Shampoo and soap are supplied. Water pressure very good.
Cabin was bright and well lit, with lots of lighting options. TV and remote in good working order. Fridge (mini-bar choices available). Nice vanity area with lighting around the mirror, hair-drier and drawer space. A seperate stand-alone vanity mirror would have been welcome.
Large bed, quality bedding and very comfortable.