We have cruised with Royal Caribbean five or six times now, and tend to like the layout of the ship, the size, and now we know where everything is. Well, almost.
First the pros. The Independence is a beautiful ship, rooms were very clean, and staff very friendly. I did feel they did as much as they could if we had a problem. The Ice Shows are very professional, you don't need to queue for tickets, there are always plenty of seats.
However the cons. Quite a few. We did not appreciate the loud blaring 'music' when we were trying to relax around the pool, or on sunbeds, particularly around the Flow Rider. However there is one 'quite' pool area if you can get a sunbed early enough. Too many towels left on seats. And If you are not a smoker, avoid the Casino. Full of heavy smoke and cigarette butts stubbed out and unemptied in ashtrays.
The steward was very friendly and helpful, cleaning the room two or three times and changing towels, every single day. Shower room door very tight against wardrobes, but we managed! Lovely balcony, port side can be a bit noisy when entering a port, especially back in Southampton at 6am.