This was our 7th RCCL cruise, and first as Platinum members of the Crown & Anchor program. Overall, we were expecting a bit more from this experience, but things have slipped a bit and/or disappeared just since last year.

We selected the ship based on departure date and port as I teach at a college and have only one particular week available each Spring. We had been to Cozumel with our children several years ago, but never to Belize. We also like this cruise because of the two "at sea" days, giving us a chance to get some real R&R.

Embarkation was about the easiest it has ever been. We now rent from Alamo as they have a free shuttle from Miami airport to the cruise terminal (we also visit various family members while in Florida). We arrived around 1:30 pm and were on the ship with no real hassle in about 30 minutes. Our bags did not arrive until after the Muster Drill, but otherwise without issue. One new and important difference: We were no longer required to march to the Muster Station wearing our life preservers. We were also in a lounge, as opposed to having to queue on deck, so that was a plus. We saw a demo of the life jackets, listened to the captain and were done. Read more