Explorer of the Seas Review

Relaxing and Familiar

Review for the South Pacific Cruise on Explorer of the Seas
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marlute2102
10+ Cruises • Age 60s

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Sail Date: Jan 2017
Cabin: Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

First up, will say that we are pretty loyal to RCL and have cruised on this ship and her sister, Voyager, 3 times now. But for the first time, felt that the ship was over run by way to many mid to late teen bogans!! In the "adult" pool area, these children were totally over crowding the spa pools on numerous occasions and the pool staff did nothing to control it. They hunted in packs of 10 or more around the bars and lounges, both the males and females, and were just loud and obnoxious. If I wanted to go on a cruise with bogans, I would have gone on a P&O cruise! This cruise line should be above this level of guest, but if they are on board, should be kept in check by security or more diligent staff members. I felt that the staff members were unwilling to impose the rules on these guests, therefore ruining every ones else's pleasure. Very disappointing! And the younger children just running about the ship unaccompanied is just not on, where were the parents? On several occasions I got into a elevator and the kids had pressed every button and thought it was great fun until I threatened on one occasion to take them to security!! Needs to have better controls on children on board who are not accompanied by adults.

On a more positive note, the ship is beautiful, the staff were very friendly, the food choices in the MDR were excellent and the cabin staff more than happy to go out of their way for you. We thoroughly enjoyed the pleasure of the Diamond lounge, this ship has the best views and space we have ever been on. Did get very crowded during "happy hour" but we met plenty of new friends in this area. Because we have cruised on this ship class before, we did find it very relaxing and comforting to be back in familiar surroundings. Will be cruising with RCL again.

Cabin Review

Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin D1

Cabin was to the mid rear area of the ship, in a quiet area of the vessel. Balcony was a little smaller than other cabins we have been in, but found the room size to be fine for us. Being close to the elevators and stairs made it easy to get from deck to deck, especially to the pool deck and Windjammer! Carpets and furniture is now getting a little worn, so the company does need to look at that but overall we enjoyed the cabin on this deck and location.

Port Reviews

Noumea

Took the local bus to Anse Varte and walked back to the ship. Very easy to get around and the people are very friendly.

Isle of Pines (New Caledonia)

Love this port of call! We hired a car from a private company and drove around the island to many hidden bays. Great way to see the islans at your own speed.

Port Vila

Walked from the ship to the town, takes about an hour each way. Good way to stretch the legs after being on board for a few days.

Mystery Island

Spnt the day ashore snorkelling around the reefs that surround this lovely island. Great marine life to see if you are prepared to swim a little bit off shore, away from the crowds.

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