This was our first experience of cruising. The Freedom Of The Seas is a spectacular ship when you first view the inside of the ship it is breathtaking.Staff particularly MTD waiters and stateroom attendant were First Class . However the costs of excursions is extortionate and the price of drinks and wine. 18% service then 20% vat added i.e. 2 glasses of ordinary wine $25.60 and the bottle would be $60.72 this is rip- off merchant territory . The food and entertainment was first class the stateroom was spotless and facilities were very good. Sun loungers were plentiful and never fully in use. The hot tub was popular as were the pools. The various dining rooms were well presented especially for evening dinner with full table service as was breakfast in Leonardo's. The Windjammer eating room was self service it was popular and difficult to find a table during peak times. The entertainment was also very good this included an acrobatic show/ dancing on ice /a comedian who was very funny /juggler and a singing group. The casino was a popular venue as well. We didn't experience any problems or find any of the staff unhelpful in fact I would say the opposite. Our overall experience was to be recommended.