Explorer of the Seas Review
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After having taken two cruises with P & O, the first being a short break "taster" on the Ventura and the second aboard the lovely Oceana to the wonderful Norwegian Fjords, we decided to broaden our experiences and so we booked with Royal Caribbean. We were fortunate to get a good deal including drinks package bottled beers cold drinks (but not bottled water) wine up to 9 dollars per glass and 'mocktails' (scrummy non alcoholic cocktails), gratuities inclusive and 100 dollars on board spend. The latter came in handy when I found myself needing the services of the medical team on the second day of cruise - an injection to settle the tummy cost 45.50 dollars but money well spent as I was fine thereafter even when the seas became a little more expressive crossing the Bay of Biscay.
The entire check-in process at Southampton is straight forward and efficient and we were aboard within the hour and our holiday commenced.
On our previous cruises we had been able to gain a balcony cabin in the deal but on this occasion finances dictated and we booked an inside cabin. Although I did miss being able to readily see the outside world, cabin 8221 met all our needs. As with all cabins the bathrooms are limited on space but manageable; the shower on the Explorer has a sliding screen not those awful plastic surrounds, flannels are provided as well as the usual towels which are a little thin but they do the job. Toiletries provided are just soap and a shower gel dispenser. The shower head is detachable which made it easier for the hair washing. Hairdryer is provided and there was a kettle with milk, sugar and tea replenished each day. No coffee sachets. Beds were very comfortable and on request we were given additional pillows and coat-hangers (I always take too many clothes!). There is sufficient storage although no long drawers and the cases will easily store away under the beds. We had the two beds joined to become a double which does make the space either side of the bed limited - be careful you don't catch your legs on the end surrounds.
Cabin Review
Interior Stateroom
Inside cabin on deck 8
We had an excellent cabin steward who kept the cabin clean and tidy. Sufficient storage and coat hangers - additional hangers available on request. Limited access space around bed if made up as a double. Bed comfortable. Kettle and tea, sugar and milk supplied. No coffee. Hairdryer supplied. Sofa. Usual size ensuite facilities - shower had sliding door rather than plastic curtain. Sufficient for our needs.