As background, 50-year old couple without kids (celebrating our first empty nest year!) who had cruised twice before w/ kids. First time RCL. We enjoy seeing different places of the world; not really sure about the whole cruising concept as our preferred travelling method.

WE chose the Jewel strictly due to iteinerary and price value. We loved the five island itinerary in seven days...it was a busy itinerary but that's what we were looking for. We booked all our excursions using cruise critic and trip advisor and had great experiences.

As for the ship, we had read some complaints about cleanlness, age, and upkeep. We had nothing but positive impression. Perhaps a dirty window here and there, but overall, we thought the ship was well taken care of and several areas were quite classy (Schooner bar, etc). We ate in Tides each night (MTD) and only waited a few minutes once. Service was very good, and the food was a non stop affair. Absolutely incredible - and slighlty horrifying - how much food is consumed on such a journey! Boarding and departing the ship was relatively painless. Entertainment seemed to be hit or miss. The musicians around the ship were okay; the comedian one night and a Beatles tribute band in the theater were entertaining. Another show was average at best. Being a new cruiser, I never really figured out why people seemed to ge riled up over things like a $10 gift shop sale or art auctions, but I guess to each his or her own.... Read more