Having cruised more than 20 times, my husband and I have definite expectations when setting sail on a cruise ship. The Independence did not let us down. The ship is beautiful, and despite its size and the large number of guests aboard, we found no problems with crowds. The food was better than average, the entertainment among the best we have encountered at sea (or anywhere else, for that matter,) the cabin was larger than many in similar price categories, the ship was clean as a whistle, the service first class, the cruise director among the most talented we have encountered. I have read other reviews "knocking" such things as the number of food selections in the Windjammer, and I have to wonder if we are talking about the same ship. We quickly came to the conclusion that the only way to NOT enjoy a week on the Independence is to come aboard determined to have a miserable time. There's plenty to keep one busy onboard, or to NOT be busy if one desires. We noted a high number of kids on board, and were impressed with the way they were treated--all seemed happily occupied the entire week; there was not a single time when there was any disruption caused by unhappy or rambunctious children. Cabins - Somewhat typical of RCCL cabins. Larger than most in the same price range. The cabin and bathroom were impeccably clean, the staff pleasant and efficient. Our only complaint: those extremely heavy (meaning HEAVY as in weight) quilt/comforters. We spent one night under that thing and asked our cabin steward to please swap it out for a good old-fashioned lightweight blanket. Where's the logic of going to the tropics with a comforter like that? All in all, the cabin was more than adequate. The bathroom even seemed to have a bit more space than many. All in all, our week aboard the Independence was a pleasant, relaxing one. If we had to nitpick, I guess we'd have to complain a little about the crowd/chaos in the Windjammer, but with that many people enjoying meals there, the cleanliness, food selections, service, amount of available seating were all more than adequate.

Labadee is not listed among the ports-of-call, but it deserves a mention. It's a private island run by RCCL, and it is a very pleasant place to while away a day. The cruise line has done a wonderful job of creating an island paradise, with lots of activities, lovely clean beaches, activities for adults and kids, access to good food and drink, and clean and plentiful restroom facilities. Much of the island is handicap accessible. We were very impressed with the whole place. And as for it being part of Haiti--this island provides jobs for at least a few Haitians, and RCCL donates proceeds from rental of water sports equipment, as well as pallets of relief supplies, to the Haitian relief effort. We did not feel that enjoying the island of Labadee in any way showed disrespect to the citizens of Haiti and their plight. Eliminating this port of call from the cruise itinerary would have done no good for the situation in Haiti.