Left Chicago on a cool overcast Monday April morning, arrived in Ft. Lauderdale around 11AM what a difference in temperature, Sunny and warm, around 80 degrees, a far cry from the 39 degrees when we left. Took the transfer package that the cruise offered not sure if it was any cheaper than taking a cab, the only difference was that we did not have to pay any tips to the cabbie or longshoremen. Once we handed our luggage to the bus driver we did not see it again until it was outside our stateroom. Our only complaint and it is a minor one is that when we arrived at our assigned area for the bus pick up, the people that were doing check in were not the most prepared, and as a result we had to wait an extra 40 minutes for the next bus to show up.

Arrived at the Majesty of the Seas terminal around 1PM. Having our Sea Pass paperwork filled out on line before we left is a great time saver. The lines moved quickly and we were aboard ship in less than a 1/2 hour. If you have a lanyard, get your sea pass card punched at the guest relations desk, that way you don't need to carry your card in your pocket. If you don't have a lanyard, they are for sale around the guest relations area. I got my soda stamp, for $29.52 you get a souvenir cup which entitles you to unlimited fountain soda. If you want can pop you have to pay. Our room was all the way in the front of the ship on deck seven the Promenade Deck. The advantage to this deck is that you have for the most part an unobstructed view, and it allows you to walk out onto the deck. all the other decks you have to either go to deck 7 or 12. The disadvantage is that being in front of the ship especially when coming into port you hear all the noise from the mooring party. The cabin was adequate would liked to have more storage space, again a minor complaint. CAUTION: Each stateroom has a mini bar but the prices are way to high. Did the dining room option, only 2 time seatings,6PM or 8:30PM, not my cup of tea, but we both enjoyed the food, and the wait staff was excellent. If you want to save packing space then the buffet is the way to go, no need for dress casual or formal clothes, and you can go eat whenever you like. Another plus to eating at the buffet is no need for tipping the wait staff, this can save you as a couple about $60.

If you like to shop, again not my cup of tea, go to the shopping clinics where you can find out where to go for the best deals at your ports of call. My wife did get some great information and got some great deals. Read more