We thought the Independence was a great ship and we had a fantastic time. Our children took us on this cruise for our 50th anniversary. The itinerary was Ok. Our excursion in Belize was great, but where we docked was run down and dirty. I've heard Belize City is wonderful. We enjoyed just walking around Cozumel. Great weather, beautiful day.

Very nice room on the hump on deck 7. Perfect location. The balcony had 2 chairs and a chaise. Only time we've ever had a chaise with a balcony room. Loved it. Room had more storage than some of the other RC cruises we've been on. We only saw our room attendant twice the entire time. By the second day when he hadn't visited our room, we called, and he did stop by. This was our 50th wedding anniversary, and he never acknowledged it, even after delivering a gift to our room that was from friends at home. So he knew it was a special occasion for us. Gift was not presented well. A few pieces of fruit in a small plastic bowl on a small plastic tray. No card with the gift, so initially we weren't sure who it was from. Dining room food was very good. Our servers were terrific. Spoiled all of us every night! We even liked the Windjammer, which we usually avoid. Entertainment very good. Only one show we didn't care for.

I purchased a 90 minute massage, which was supposed to include full body including hands, arms, head/scalp, legs and feet. And a facial. Well, I sat in the waiting room for 15 minutes before anyone came to get me. I was taken to the room and told to disrobe. Waited another 10 minutes before she came back. The massage was minimal at best, and did not include scalp, nor arms and hands. The facial was basically a cleansing and moisturizing. Not a real facial. When she was done, I got dressed and waited for her to come back. When she did, she spent 15 minutes trying to sell me products. I did buy a body brush for $44 (which I later discovered you can buy the exact brush on Amazon for $16.75). When she brought my receipt, they had added 18% tip, and was told I could add additional tip at the bottom. Really!!?? From the time I left my room, until I returned was an hour and a half. So did not get the 90 full minute massage/facial. I did not leave an extra tip! Oh, and they even added tip to the cost of the body brush I bought. Talk about being nickel and dime'd to death!! My massage therapist was actually very pleasant, but certainly can't say that for the rest of the spa staff. Best way to describe them was quite condescending, and that is putting is in a positive light. Never again will I purchase services in the spa on any ship!! Read more