I would echo almost all of the positive impressions found in past reviews of Allure of the Seas except those concerning the on board wines served in the Specialty Restaurants as well as the Concierge Lounge.

As a long-time wine educator and past cruise ship lecturer, I was quite disappointed with the second and third tier offerings chosen for food pairings at dining venues requiring up to a $135 up-charge. Guests purchasing the wine packages are limited to these budget wines but folks who choose the Specialty Restaurants deserve better. One exception was the wine pairings coupled with the exceptional menu offered at 150 Central Park which out-shined the wines poured to accompany the courses at The Chef's Table -- a more expensive venue.

With regard to wine service, RCI does not employ or train Sommeliers. Instead they designate certain bartenders and waiters as "Winetenders" and station them in various dining rooms, bars and restaurants on board. If a guest has a question about a wine or its proper decanting, the server must seek out a winetender from wherever he or she might be stationed. Read more