Independence of the Seas Review

A Back to Back but not the same dining experience!

Review for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
User Avatar
UCONN Women Rule
First Time Cruiser • Age 70s

Rating by category

Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service
Cabin

Additional details

Sail Date: Mar 2010
Cabin: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Embarkation: We stayed at Embassy Suites the day before and arrived at the port around 11:25. We entered the terminal at 11:30 and were seated at the Wind Jammer by 11:45. I'd call that super! Cabin: We had a balcony on the hump on deck 8. Our cabin steward was Clive and took care of us as though we were his family. He handled every request and addressed us by name. Dining: We sat at table 266 on Deck 3 (Romeo & Juliet) early seating for both legs of the B2B. Our servers on the first week were Alexander Lontok and Marion (?). They immediately learned everyone's name at out table of 10 and knew our preferences By the second night. Their service and knowledge of the menus was fabulous. The head waiter was very attentive and visited our table every night. We requested the same servers for the second leg but were told that they all had reassigned. This began our dining service nightmare. We met our servers - Florentine and (???) and were never asked our names. Our iced tea, bread, and other preferences were never ready at our arrival to the table. We were never addressed other than Mr. or Mrs. One evening I waited 35 minutes for my iced tea and then my appetizer wasn't delivered to me until I asked why everyone else had theirs. At meals when it is customary for seconds to be brought out automatically, we had to request them. My suggestion is to retrain both of the servers by having them shadow Alexander and Marion. Entertainment: On the first leg, we experienced the Motown Review and really enjoyed them. On the second leg, the Las Vegas Tenors blew us away! One of the best groups I've ever seen on a cruise! The Cruise Director, Graham Seymour did nothing for us. His love of himself was atrocious! I will boycott any future cruise if I find he is the CD. Staff: The Captain is one of the most genuine individuals I've ever cruised with. His sense of humor is great and you could feel his love for his crew. We filled backpacks for the children of Haiti and the captain was there also. At the final dinner on each leg, the captain addressed the passengers in person, which is the first time we've experienced that. CLASS ACT! Labadee: The changes from last year are remarkable. The new walkways are fantastic. The setup of the straw market and fire show stage was well thought out. Cabin: We had the same cabin on deck 8 - 8338 for both legs. This is a hump cabin which sticks over the side of the ship. The balcony is a little larger than average. Our cabin steward was Clive and he treated us as though we were the most important people on the ship. His towel creations were some of the best we've ever seen, from a baby to an alligator. Our cabin was kept spotless and addressed us by name on every encounter. Staff: It is necessary to identify superior staff members. Wei in the Diamond Concierge Lounge is a very special customer service minded employee. She goes a step above every one else. Alexander Lontok, waiter, Romeo & Juliet knows how to make a dining experience special. Marion (?), Assistant waiter, just passed his waiter test and will make a great waiter. I hope to see these staff members on future cruises.

Cabin Review

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin E2

This cabin 8338 is a hump cabin. The only problem was the shower drain. It needed to be snaked during the first leg of the cruise. It is in a perfect position for getting to the elevators and stairways. Would have liked a lounge chair for the balcony.

previous reviewnext review

Find an Independence of the Seas Cruise from $235

Any Month

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.