Ovation of the Seas Review
A lot of Hype, but not much management
Rating by category
Additional details
Having travelled Royal Caribbean twice before ( and Celebrity Cruises twice ), I was affected by the pre - cruise sales hype and booked as soon as the voyage to Australia was announced. I paid top price for a balcony cabin. Later on as others joined the voyage at various ports I was astounded at the minimal prices paid. It would seem that the ship's initial voyage was undersold and attractive prices of up to about 1/3rd I had paid were availed by new joiners. Even two travelling for the price of one. Yet as an initially intended solo passenger, I paid for double occupancy.
The check in at Singapore was effective and generally smooth for such a large number joining. Even though I am a Platinum level member, and checking in around noon it took until 4.30 for my bag to arrive at the cabin ( forgive me, the upmarket term is stateroom ).
The ship itself is grand and well laid out, but the many technological features were designed, in my view, for families. The shows were spectacular in arrangement and with features and I could not fault.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony
The cabin was bright and spacious with settee seating at the balcony end. The wardrobes were just adequate for 2 people, but the bathroom was useful. The TV was of a large size and the latest HD unit. The programming was poor though. Some 6 plus channels were dedicated to selling RC product. The remaining channels had not been set up for a majority Australian audience which comprised the majority of pax. It was only after arrival Perth that some attempt was made to capture Australian TV.
If one wanted to watch a movie ( unlike the complimentary offering on other ships ) then it cost US $11.95 for the privilege - yet another money maker. The only option prior to Perth was the TCM channel of old movies and which was lost when the Australia channels were connected.