Explorer of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Well we were first time cruisers , so were unaware what to expect and a little apprehensive because of negative reviews.
But we loved it. Yes its a big ship so of course there are going to be a lot of people but you know that when you book. There are always quiet places somewhere to be found. We loved deck 4 outside , quiet but close to pop back inside to grab a cocktail or a bite to eat to take outside and relax.
The dining room was good, not fantastic food but there are a lot of people to cook for it cant be expected to be cooked there and then for individuals. Listen to the waiters recommendations they know what the best choices are.The service was great as was the atmosphere and wine list. I found no waiting for a table or service, excellent. And those waiters have a big job to do and they do it well. Menus had variety which changed on a regular basis. Breakfasts were amazing as was the variety. So overall I have no complaints there.
Cabin Review
Large Oceanview Stateroom
Great cabin with great views for entering and leaving ports as you are right up the front. Well serviced. plenty of cupboard space.
Port Reviews
Dunedin
Dunedin is lovely, but do not forget Port Chalmers where you dock, its lovely. And visit the historical Carey's Bay hotel, just a short walk from the ship great food and cold beers with a lovely outdoor eating area with a great bay view.
Sydney (Australia)
Stayed at the 4 seasons hotel, right in The Rocks so within walking distance to the Over seas passenger terminal.
Picton
lovely little seaside place, get some fish and chips from Kiwi take away (try the tarakihi fish, sweet and inexpensive.) and sit on the esplanade. Also check out the Edwin Fox Maritime museum, very interesting.
Wellington
So much to do here and so little time. Take a one way $4 cable car ride up to the top , great views. Then check out the free cable car museum, then walk down through the Best Botanical gardens I've ever seen ( also free) , and do not forget to walk through the Bolton street cemetery memorial trail at the end of the botanical gardens its also great viewing and free. after this your right back in Wellington and have only spent $4
Tauranga
Fantastic, well worth the money. Interesting and fantastically humorous tour guide Sean will keep you well informed and entertained .
Auckland
This excursion was a bit pricey and a bit average for us.The dancing and singing was great, and the hospitality was lovely but not interesting enough
Bay of Islands
very informative. Russell is a beautiful spot with plenty to do. Spend most of your day there and only ferry over to Pahia for the end of the day for souvenir shopping and your return to the ship. We didn't and regretted it. There is a beautiful Hotel on Russell with a lovely menu and beautiful views of the Bay