Have been on RCC before and my son wanted to sail on this big ship. Got an early deal including flights and transfers which meant we could budget for two inside cabins. Transfer from El Pratt to the Terminal Dock took two hours just waiting for other flights from USA and Israel to arrive. At the Terminal things speeded up and we got on board rapidly, next time we will get the taxi as we have done previously.

Rooms were clean and functional and we chose a location to the rear of the ship, deck 9, close to stairs and elevators which was a really clever move on a ship of this size. Silk restaurant was busy but the food and service was good. We noticed a distinct increase in quality in the Windjammer restaurant, really noticeable. We also used the Solarium Bistro for lunch which fitted in nicely with sunbathing and using the plunge pools in the relaxed surroundings. Access to the two flowriders was easy in the morning and queues for the Abyss ride and zip line were never excessive. Needed more emphasis on football tournaments on the court for the children/teenagers as the cruise line seemed to want to cater more for basketball for the Americans on board.

All the bars were quick and efficient with the best cocktails served in the Trellis bar situated in the Central Park area. Beware of the additional tax charges on the drinks package, for example, a $55 premium package actually was plus 18%, plus 20%! We did achieve at least a break even on that. The entertainment on board was higher quality than we have previously experienced. The main show 'Grease' was very slick. The 'Thin Blue Line' in the Aqua theatre was just fantastic, a must see. Stand up Mark Dolan was great. 'Dazzles 'nightclub could do with more disco and less live music = more dancing. Lots of bars and restaurants, so much variety to cater for all tastes on board. Well done RCC. The transfer was smooth from the ship but again a 45 min wait on the coach at the dock I thought was a little excessive. Overall a really good experience for the whole family, ( and never THAT crowded ).