I am a committed Diamond level RCI cruiser, so I am very familiar with their ships (over 10 sailings) and prefer this company to all others. Therefore, I was very eager to go on the Freedom and see the latest developments for the first time.
The major changes are the H2O water park, the Waverider, My Time Dining and for me, a major lack was spectacular art and decor in the public areas. I have always found the extensive art collections on the RCI ships to be a major selling point-the environments have just been magnificent. While Freedom is a beautiful ship, I really missed finding and enjoying wonderful and interesting art, every where I roamed. Even the main promenade was missing the trademark massive sculpture, there were just 4 pillars topped by traditional statues representing the elements. This change would make me reluctant to try any of the other ships in the Freedom class-I'll stick with the Voyager and Radiance class.
That being said, we had a wonderful time (of course). I agree with many who have raved about Cruise Director Richard Spacey. He is a star performer in his own right and added enormously to the cruise. He is a talented entertainer. I hope he is a good manager also and has a long career.
Very spacious and comfortable cabin. Midway between the two elevators, so pretty convenient. The balcony is the largest we've had for this category. Cabin included a bath, granite sinktop, safe, bathrobes with our Diamond level status.