We choose this cruise for the itinerary. We had a great time and enjoyed all the islands, and met some really great people on board the ship. My favorite island was Dominica, I look forward to returning there one day. The Jewel of the Seas is in excellent condition for it's age. Being a smaller ship we never waited to get on or off the ship. Our last cruise was on the Allure and you would meet someone on that ship and never see them again. On the JOS you would meet the same people many times during the cruise. Our room steward did a great job, room was always clean and in order.

Now the not so good, what happened to RCCL? It seems to me that their focus is getting you from point A to point B, and not on the experience itself. This was evident when we first walked on the ship. No one welcomed us on board. In the old days you were welcomed on board and offered some champagne or mimosa. Now you get attacked to sign up for packages. The quality of food in the main dining room was poor. It was edible, but not memorable. The staff members worked very hard to please, but they just have to many tables to serve. The food in the Windjammer was poor as well. Some items were ok, and some were not. They served rotten bananas the entire trip, the ice cream was good some days and was tasteless on other days.

The main shows with the JOS singers and dancers were by far the worst I have ever seen in 10+ cruises. We walked out of both shows. There was a great comedian one night and four guys singing Motown hits that were great. Read more