Independence of the Seas Review

4.5 / 5.0
1,701 reviews

WARM, WONDERFUL, AND CALM TRANSATLANTIC

Review for Transatlantic Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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tally10
First Time Cruiser • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Apr 2009
Cabin: Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

I need to start off saying that we booked this cruise on a spur of the moment decision. As we were already booked on the Indy's westbound TA in November, the price drop on this cruise was too good to let go. As Diamond members, we were able to take advantage of additional discounts. This is also the first time we ever jumped on a cruise after final payment was due. We always book them well in advance.

This was our 5th transatlantic cruise, although we have sailed with various lines to various parts of the world. We flew into Ft. Lauderdale the day before using US Airways. They have the only non-stop from Phoenix. We did have to pay baggage fees as they charge for every piece of luggage you check. Arrived in Ft Lauderdale Saturday afternoon and rented a car from National. We always stay at the Hampton Inn in Plantation (#1 in tripadvisor.com) pre and post cruise. They offer a free shuttle to/from the port and airport, which we don't take advantage of because we always rent a car. We are from Plantation and always visit old friends.  We got to the port around 10:30am by taxi, after returning the rental car. The port was a little crazy as there were many ships in and everyone was coming off. We found out where to drop off our luggage and went in to register. Registration was very quick and efficient. As Diamond members, they sent us up to a special waiting area. We did not wait long as they let us on the ship at 11am. We went to the Windjammer for lunch and had the usual first day lunch of "honey stung" chicken and mashed potatoes. It was nice getting onboard early. No crowds. The Windjammer is set up very well. There are several stations set up around the whole area. There were plenty of tables, all with excellent views. We did eat many of our lunches and a few dinners in the Windjammer. They staff was great and was always cleaning off the tables or offering you something to drink.

THE SHIP: The ship is huge but never seemed to have that "crowded" feeling. The only time we saw large numbers of people was waiting to be seated for the shows in the ice rink. She just turned one year old while on this cruise. This was the first time we have been on this class of ship and she is beautiful. We really enjoyed the mini golf almost daily. The Promenade was very interesting. We enjoyed the various venues it offered. I enjoyed going out to the helipad at the front of the ship. There were benches out there for you to relax and enjoy the view. Our most favorite place was the Diamond Lounge. It had the most magnificent views. We played many games of scrabble up there.

Cabin Review

Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin D2

great location, ample space for storage, very quiet

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