Serenade of the Seas Review
Average Cruise, Bad Behaviour, and A Ship in Need of Refreshing
Rating by category
Additional details
The re-positioning cruise from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale was lovely for the different areas visited and the tremendous fall colours (which were late this year and just in time for us). Really, if you are looking for a unique cruise that almost covers all the high points, this itinerary is a must. This being said though, it might be wise to look at another cruise line.
RCCL has so much to offer and yet they tend to fall short and this cruise was no exception. Yes, the perks of being C&A members are nice, but they do not offset the issues encountered.
A) Dining: We selected late seating for a table of 8 in the dining room and found ourselves seated at a sparsely populated table for 10. With only 50% of the table occupied (on a good day) it was empty and uninspiring dining experience. Other tables also suffered this fate and it made us question why this was happening and why the situation was not being monitored so as to improve the guest experience and expectations.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony
Port Reviews
Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island)
Port area is flat and everything is easy to access. Downtown area is a few blocks away so not a lot of immediate shopping, but if you are just looking to get onto terra firma and see the local sites, it is an easy port in which to do so.
Sydney (Nova Scotia)
Lovely, lovely, lovely. While we didn't leave the pier area, there wasn't any need to. There are lots of local artisans and shops to enjoy. Prices were good, selection was awesome!
Quebec City
Quebec City is beautiful and well worth the effort. It is hilly and there are lots of stairs, but if you take your time and try to speak of bit of French to the locals, you will have a lovely time.
Bar Harbor
Great port with lots of neat little shops and friendly folks. Very nice indeed!
Halifax
Peggy's Cove was dirty and things were expensive. Will not do it again.
Halifax
Tour was disrespectful and it felt contrived and circus-like.
Portland (Maine)
Lots of homeless wandering through the areas. Shops and restaurants are easy to get to from the port area.
Charleston
The market is VERY expensive and can be crowded. The local bus is free and people raved about the horse drawn carriages.
Boston
Loved Boston! RCCL offers shuttle service to the Common's and it is well worth the $20 fee.