Just returned from my 11 night cruise to New Zealand, with the 'Explorer of the Seas', and found this to be a fantastic ship. I was a little apprehensive, as this was the largest ship out of my 31 cruises I have done! Embarkation was a breeze, all up it took 40 minutes all up, from the time I arrived. Once on, I was directed to the 'Windjammer' Restaurant for lunch, as my cabin 8309 ,was not ready until 1.30pm.
The food was spectacular, everything was fresh and delicious, so many choices. The staff were so friendly and courteous, and couldn't do enough for me. I wanted to know where the Rest Rooms were, and one female staff member, took me personally, how good is that? We were allowed to go to our cabins at 1.30pm, my baggage did take a little longer than other ships, it didn't arrive until 4.20pm just before Muster at 5 o'clock, (although my daughter received hers within 45 minutes of boarding.)
We did decide on the set time dining, and we were fortunate to get that same lady that helped me in the afternoon, she was so excited to see us, and that we were on her table! I opted for a 'Panoramic' Bay Window cabin overlooking the 'Mall', slightly dearer than an Inside cabin! It was great and could see the Parade and various parties from my Deck 8 cabin. I would definitely choose that cabin again, no noise at all, although I was told that there was some noise from below, in cabins on Deck 6.
I loved the 2015 newly renovated cabin, the new shower glass screen, great water pressure! Flat screen T.V. confutable bed and pillows!