Even though we are seasoned cruisers, this was our first cruise on an Oasis-class ship, Allure of the Seas, and she is majestic: enormous, gorgeous and oh-so impressive! The itinerary (Eastern Caribbean) didn't matter much for us, we were mainly drawn by the ship, the date (Memorial Day week) and the ease: only a drive to Port Everglades from Miami (no need to fly, which with young kids who are 1.5 & 3 years old, is always a hassle!). We were blessed with beautiful sunny weather and an ocean-view balcony cabin, so we don't have any complaints... only a brief list of challenges which can be improved (along with suggestions) and a laundry list of things we loved.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT

* Muster Drill: it's never fun, always a hassle, too long/hot/boring, but we know it must be done! Once it concludes, it is literally a stampede with thousands of people rushing back into the air-conditioned ship, to get back to having fun. This is a challenge for families with children on strollers and anyone on a wheelchair... particularly to enter an elevator and not be "sardine-ed" or having to wait for many elevators to come and go before being able to board. Our recommendation if for RCCL to announce and enforce an initial 5 minute period or so, for those with strollers/wheelchairs/walking devices to exit first, allowing them to board elevators, before the mass exodus. Read more