Independence of the Seas Review

This is why cruises are cheaper during hurricane season!

Review for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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richera1
2-5 Cruises • Age 60s

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Sail Date: Sep 2015
Cabin: Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Let me start by expressing my appreciation to our Captain and Royal Caribbean for the excellent job they did keeping us safe during this voyage. Despite the close proximity of the hurricane, we never missed a port and even returned to Fort Lauderdale at the end of the trip exactly on time. The route was amended so that we stayed as far away from the storm as possible and in calmer waters. The Captain gave us numerous updates via loudspeaker announcements and a channel on every TV where you could tune in whenever you desired the latest information. Excellent communication and expert navigation kept everyone on the boat calm and able to enjoy the cruise.

We went to three ports. Puerto Rico, St Martin and St Kitts. We docked in Puerto Rico at 4 pm which gave us almost no time to do much but take a walk and have dinner. I think they should figure out a way to give us an entire day or at least a longer afternoon. Plus I heard there was some sort of security breach and many passengers were not allowed off the ship. We didn't experience that. If you get to Puerto Rico on a cruise or vacation, I highly recommend having dinner at Marmalade Restaurant. It is walking distance from the cruise dock and is FANTASTIC. One of the best meals my husband and I ever had.

We used Thenford Grey of Grey's Island Excursions in St Kitts. Very happy with our tour. Comfortable air conditioned bus and wonderful guide. Worth the $48 per person fee.

Cabin Review

Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin D1

Cabin 1700 is at the very aft of the ship. I worried that I'd feel more motion but I did not. Plus these aft cabins are a bit bigger than the regular balcony rooms. Very nice balcony as well. Of course, the bathrooms are teeny. There is a pole in the center of the room so if you are prone to going to the bathroom in the middle of the night you have to be aware of the pole so you don't walk into it. Plus it blocks one person's view of the TV somewhat. But its worth it for the larger cabin.

Port Reviews

San Juan

Go to Marmalade Restaurant in Old San Juan. Excellent excellent excellent.

St. Maarten

Went to Orient Beach which is lovely and has a clothing optional side.

St. Kitts (Port Zante)

Thenford Grey's brother was our guide. He was fun and interesting and knew a great deal about the island.

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