Jewel of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
In the past, we have cruised on Celebrity Cruise Lines so this is our reference point for this cruise. We chose Jewel of the Seas because it had recently been refurbished (Summer 2016) and had the itinerary that we were looking for. We felt it would be a comparable choice given that is owned by Celebrity Cruise Lines. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
The level and quality of service just wasn't as good as Celebrity and while there were no major snafus on the cruise, there were a lot of little things that added up to disappointment.
The first area of concern was the lack or organization in the Main Dining Room. We dined there on four different nights but got a different wait staff each time? We even received a call from the Head Waiter midway through the Cruise asking why we had not been to dinner - even though we had been - just not at his table. Also, we found the sequence of the dinner puzzling in that we often received our appetizer before we had even ordered a drink and always felt rushed. From a food quality standpoint - it was okay.
Cabin Review
Superior Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony
The stateroom was updated and clean but not quite as big as on Celebrity.
We loved the veranda and being on the 11th deck.
Port Reviews
San Juan
Stayed in San Juan overnight prior to the cruise. Nice area to walk around and explore in Old San Juan.
St. Thomas
Enjoyed a scenic tour with stops at several historic landmarks.
St. Kitts (Port Zante)
We did not book an excursion for this port and we should have as there is very little to see by walking around outside the cruise ship.
St. John (U.S.V.I.)
We were very disappointed in St. John's, Antigua. We did not book an excursion but should of. The area around the ship can best be described as slum like. You definitely, need to book an excursion that takes you outside the port area or simply stay on the ship.
Barbados
We took the walking tour around Bridgetown, Barbados. Saw many historic sites. Very informative and enjoyable.
St. Lucia
Castries, St. Lucia was a pleasant surprise. Had a nice walk near the port area.