I chose this cruise as the port of Bayonne is within driving distance from Manhattan and I obtained a nice price. I am an experienced cruiser (30+ and counting) but had not cruised Royal in 9 years. Most of my cruises have been from Pier 88, Red Hook, Bklyn, Seattle and Honolulu. I took The RCCI shuttle from 43rd St and 8th Ave (Westin Hotel). The shuttle arrived promptly and was very clean. The RCI representative was very professional and pleasant. Upon arrival to the port, it was very busy. I had pre-printed my documents and uploaded my pic, the embarkation process took less than 15 minutes.

The ship is outstanding. I booked a inside vertical balcony state room. It is well appointed ( I am writing this review from cabin 9539). There is adequate storage and I love the nightlight that is generated in the bathroom, once you turn out the cabin lights. The royal king bed is very comfortable. The lighting in the cabin is also good. I love the food in the restaurants. The food is five stars, the service is 10 stars. I was disappointed with the thermal suite which consists of one bathroom for staff and guests, six hot beds, one small co-Ed sauna and steam rooms and one shower. Aforementioned not worth $99 single/$179 dbl. Sauna and steam rooms should be free with time limits. The roller skating, number cars and North Star were awesome. I do the IFLY 5/12/16. The solarium for adults only is very nice but security needs to reinforce the adult only policy. Time limits also needs to be enforced in the Solarium because of lounge hogs. It is too small for such a large ship. The entertainment is top notch! The cons are not deal breakers due to the great food and impeccable service. Since I cruise 3-4 yearly, while on board, if i