Freedom of the Seas Review
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This was our fourth cruise and the second on Freedom of the Seas. We had gone on the eastern Caribbean circuit in 2011 and wanted to try the western loop, especially to experience the zip line in Haiti. The embarkation from the new cruise terminal was painless and luggage transfer from the hotel shuttle to the porters at the pier seemed a tiny bit chaotic but overall smooth. Check in was quick and all the people we encountered from the porters at curbside to security and check in personnel were friendly and courteous. Of course there are the obligitory(sp?) photographers waiting to take your picture as you are boarding. We declined, in fact RCL now has a separate "through lane" to the ship for those not wanting their pictures taken. A curious note though is that there were no ships personnel to greet passengers at the entry to the ship because on previous cruises there was always someone there to welcome you and direct you if needed.
Since we had sailed on her before, we kind of knew where we were going. Rooms were ready at one as stated but you could not access the hallways to the staterooms until that time. Makes sense as it must a herculean feat to turn that ship around and get it ready for the next load of passengers in a short time thus necessitating restricting access so that stateroom attendants can finish their tasks. The weather was windy leaving port and the ride reflected the wind as it was a bit bumpy but not too bad. The weather certainly cooperated for the remainder of the cruise.
Access in and out of Haiti, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel was efficient and painless. A word on the shore excursions later. Food was always plentiful and beautifully presented in the dining room. The first nights steak was tough but the rest of the meals eaten were good. The dining room waiter was fabulous and we had the same table and waiter for the duration of the cruise. Breakfast and lunch in the Windjammer on deck 11 was always an adventure in just staying out the way of other passengers. You would have thought that this was the last meal for some of them as plates were piled higher than at many buffet restaurants I have seen. There were many kids on this cruise but for the most part were well behaved and under adult supervision.
Cabin Review
Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony
Excellent cabin slightly forward of mid ship on port side. Good use of space but mattress hard as a rock. Okay for some but not this couple. Stateroom attendant tried her best with blankets and whatever was available to make it more comfortable and slightly succeeded. Television reception a little fuzzy but who stays in their room that long? Wish they had several more U.S. stations but with an international clientele it is understandable they don't. Stateroom attendant superior in every way, not just in keeping the room clean but learning our names and recognizing us on site. Made for a wonderful experience.
Port Reviews
Labadee
Great experience but way overpriced at $95 per person even with lunch included.
Falmouth
Did not quite live up to description as Reggae Hill was a small park behind a locked and secured gate along a small creek. Was expecting large area with gardens and better water features. Bus ride very long but interesting.
Grand Cayman (Georgetown)
Did not participate in any tours but walked along the street and looked in the shops
Cozumel
Had the same guide as when doing tour two years prior. Was very good and he works very hard. Informative and well worth the money. It actually was educational in learning how to actually drink and appreciate tequila