Independence of the Seas Review

Fantastric ship, pity about the onboard prices

Review for the Western Mediterranean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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Stuart
2-5 Cruises • Age 20s

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Sail Date: Jul 2011
Cabin: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony
Traveled with children

The Independence of the Seas is truly a fantastic ship. From first boarding at Southampton we were nothing less than impressed with the size, cleanliness and friendly crew. Nothing was too much trouble for the crew and many went out of their way to assist and ensure that the whole experience was second to none.

However we were certainly not prepared for the astronomically expensive price of alcohol in the bars. Lager was the equivalent of over £5.00 per pint and even if you took advantage of a drinks package, you would need to drink five pints every day just to break even, and the package had to be purchased by everyone sharing the stateroom as single packages were not allowed were not allowed.The on board entertainment provided in the Alhambra theater was well below the standard of that previously experienced on the Grand Princess. The so called headline acts were second rate and the resident singers/dancers were very amateurish and could best be described as 'why sing when you can shout'. However the ship did have a very good band named 'Rock the Boat' who performed in the Pyramid bar most evenings.The bar was full on the nights this band played, and probably provided the best entertainment available. They should have been performing in the main theater as they would have no doubt filled that one too. Overall we enjoyed the cruise but will have to consider very carefully before we book with Royal Caribbean International unless they have a change of price policy.

Cabin Review

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony

Cabin E1

Not exactly spacious but clean and well kept. Difficult to shower without repeatedly banging elbows on walls of shower cubicle. Good balcony offering unobstructed views. Soundproofing between cabins could have been better especially through the 'closed off connecting door'. Room service excellent.

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