We sailed the Freedom of the Seas over spring break through eastern caribbean. We have sailed with RC before (Mariner of the Seas) and quite liked it so wanted to try one of RC bigger ships. We really wanted to try one of the Oasis class ships but did not like the stops(Haiti, Jamaica) so picked Freedom instead(Cast Away Cay, St Thomas, St Maarten)
Embarkaction was fast and efficient with lots of friendly staff and we were on the ship by 1PM. We wandered around and found the layout very similar to Mariner just bigger and the interior of the ship was beautiful. We were eager to see the top deck and Flo-rider surf machine and our first impression was not good. Most of the outside areas on the ship looked very weathered and worn and are in serious need of refurbishment ,maybe our expectations for RC are too high but I hope not.
We left during a storm in Port Canaveral and that storm apparently followed us all the way to Cast Away Cay so the next morning they cancelled our day on the island. It was very dissapointing as we have been to Disney's island and really enjoyed it and were looking forward to seeing RC island. They really didnt offer any compensation for missing out on Cast Away Cay but the captain did make a point of finding us some sunshine for the next three sea days and we did arrive at St Thomas 2 hours earlier than sheduled. In St Thomas we took an excursion over to St John's to Trunk Bay, it was a bit rushed but worth it as the Bay was beautiful with very good snorkeling as well.
1388 was a great cabin due to aft location with minimal rocking and added bonus was there is an overhang above balcony which offered some shade during hot afternoon.