Independence of the Seas Review

4.5 / 5.0
1,701 reviews

Cruising through the Clouds

Review for the British Isles & Western Europe Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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London On Sea
6-10 Cruises • Age 50s

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

For us, a return to the Indy after a break of fours years and, of course, it's now much bigger than it was back then. It's a ship I like as, despite the number of people on board, it does have a spacious feel . . . well, some parts do!

The cabin was on Deck 8, a little way down from the Centrum lifts. A nice, large room with a sofa and that all important balcony. Yes, we used it even though some days the temperature only topped around 13 degrees! One thing you can count on with RCI is the level of cleanliness and the cabin was in great condition throughout the trip. Unfortunately though we suffered from an over-attentive cabin steward whose somewhat fawning, grovelling manner became off-putting. Like a demented cuckoo, he seemed to spring on us whenever we left the room. That is, until, the final morning when he blanked us completely.

Having been on the Anthem last year, with all that it offers, we now had to re-adjust to simpler dining options on the Indy. Chops Griille (an extra $35 per person) was well-worth the expenditure. Lovely food, charming service and a nice ambiance. The same can be said for the other 'pay' option, Giovanni's Table. Excellent. However, we also ate in the main dining room. This was something of a mixed bag. Generally, the food was fine. The portions were not massive (probably a good thing) but sometimes the main courses arrived luke-warm. We sent one back but it came back the same! The level of service was disappointing too. Disinterested and often distracted waiters shuffled around with faces like Easter Island statues. A smile doesn't hurt! As for the Windjammer? It is what it is - a cafeteria on the high seas. Choose your time wisely and there is no problem. Head to breakfast at 8.30 and and . . . well, you've been warned! The standard and variety of food though was fine.

Cabin Review

Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin D2

Great cabin, lovely size and that oh so welcome balcony!

Port Reviews

Le Havre

Took shuttle bus into town. Visited MuMA (art) and redeveloped docks (for shopping).

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