We just returned yesterday from our 8 day Southern Carribean cruise on the Sunshine, and I'm so glad I ignored the negativity I read on here from the nay-sayers! This was a WONDERFUL cruise, including staff, entertainment, accommodations, etc, etc, etc!!! I must say that on a week long cruise we always get a balcony, so we can get away from the crowd. If you have an interior room on Deck 1 you'll have a very different experience, regardless of your ship. One thing to learn on any ship is the same you learn from real estate...location, location, location! Live under a bar or the dance floor and you'll feel the difference....as well as too near the elevators or stairs. I loved the redesign of the ship. Serenity deck was beautiful. Entertainment staff was great. Jaime Dee the Cruise Director is HIGH energy, so if you like that, you'll love her. Food was improved from previous ships. We heard some of you complainers on our ship too... You RC lovers and Dis-folks. If you love those lines so much, go back, but we know why you come to CCL...their prices beat everyone else. If value for your buck is important to you, you won't do better than the Sunshine.
This was our best cabin EVER. We don't do suites so I'm sure they are even better, but this cabin had an extended balcony, just before the turn at the back to the ship. The room backed up to the crew stairway in back, but we never heard a thing there. 4 closets instead of the three standard. Bathroom was not on hallway, but on the other side of the room. Awesome room and cabin crew.
Free beach...minimal shopping...ok
Great port, street vendors, CVS right across the street from port for great USA prices and needs. Nice people, but begging is common.
Surprised at how much I liked it and how much was there. Heard some "baby monkey" horror stories, so beware of those...they want your money and harm animals....BUT shopping area was nice and people friendly.
We LOVE St. Maarten! Great bay, beaches and shopping with a European feel. Don't miss Old St...French cafes and Belgian Chocolate Box....delivery to the ship! Love, love, love!