The embarkaton process on and off the boat was quick and painless at Barcelona (pick terminal C lot less crowded) - carry your luggage off the boat it is a lot easier. RC made the shuttle/ check in process at the Barcelona airport very easy thus taking your luggage at the airport, essentially checking in with RC rep and on the ship in about 1.5 hours.

The megaship was city like from the outside and stunning from every vantage point. Never did I feel too crowded with a little common sense and planning. Don't do the Windjammer for lunch the first day or beat the crowd, Windjammer for breakfast from 7:30 AM to 9:00 tends to be crowded. The Park Cafe was a good option for a quick breakfast dining in an outdoor setting and one floor down from our cabin enroute to a shore excursion.

RC seemingly has gone to anytime dining for the Main Dining Room, again watch the crowds 06:00 to 7:45 seemed to less crowded and while we were finishing eating at 09:00 PM the waiting lines were long. We signed up for a combo pack for 3 specialty restaurants and they threw in a champayne brunch - in order of the best dining experience 150 Central Park, Chops Grille and Jamie's Italian (tied with Chops). You must use one specialty dining restaurant on night 1 or 2. Main dining room was also excellent, but there is not that rapport with wait staff or commensuate tips or recognition. Read more