Independence of the Seas Review

Good but Not Great

Review for the Eastern Mediterranean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
User Avatar
Vickychris12
2-5 Cruises • Age 50s

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: May 2016
Cabin: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

This was our second cruise previously sailing on the Celebrity Eclipse and although we enjoyed our holiday we won't return to this ship as it was an inferior experience. However let me start with the good points. Nearly all of the staff who served us were extremely polite and helpful a couple of grumpy staff in the Windjammer were the exception and a special mention to Helen who was our room attendant who was so lovely and happy. I am quite critical of the flavour of food if it is not seasoned correctly and I can honestly say that every mouthful of food I had from whichever restaurant was extremely tasty and cooked very very well. The ice shows were really professional with a very high standard of skating and lovely costumes.

We spoke to quite a few people who were long term visitors of this ship and they were critical stating that they thought standards had dropped in both the food and service over the years. I must admit there did not seem to be as many staff as we have previously had clearing tables and taking drinks orders in the restaurant and around the pools. The food in Giovanni's, Chops Grille and Johnny Rockets was outstanding however I will point out some disappointments later. The ship is well laid out however we did have trouble finding places to sit some evenings and deck 5 could get very crowded.

Now for my gripes we paid for an Ultimate drinks package which as not cheap by any means in my mind the title of Ultimate means the best/top package so imagine my surprise to find that some of the cocktails on the bar menus carried a sur charge if the price was over $12 so you might end up with a charge of $1.95 to your bill for a drink !!! Unbelievable surely this should be covered under this Ultimate package. If you have a fridge in your room do not drink anything from it even water as although the Ultimate package will cover water, soda and spirits from the bars you will have to pay for anything you take from your mini bar !!

Cabin Review

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin E1

Nice cabin comfy bed needed 3 pillows as they were quite thin. Lots of hanging and storage space. Very quiet and at back of ship near restaurants

7 Helpful Votes
previous reviewnext review

Find an Independence of the Seas Cruise from $236

Any Month

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.