First, let me say I never read reviews or look to much into what other people say about the ship or destination I'm heading to. I like to form my own opinions without looking for what others didn't like. I always find it ridiculous when people say one cruise line is better than another, or because they had a bad experience on a ship that they will never again sail with that company. You have to realize that so many things factor into the chemistry of your vacation experience. The ship, destination, weather, staff and crew, fellow passengers, even the cruise director that week, etc. That all being said, after I return I look into the reviews and see how much of what I experienced rang true with other travelers.

The port in New Jersey was easy enough, but I heard differently from several guests. Perhaps it's because we read online that you couldn't board until 1PM so we made our travel arraignments so we didn't arrive until then. We were wrong passengers had been boarding for hours and we were some of the final guests to board so it went very quickly. My advise to avoid the lines would be show up later in the day.

All ports of call were great, I don't overpay for excursions from the ship as we find much cheaper options on the piers, But for ease and peace of mind, Royal Caribbean does a good job offering excursions and I have in the past used the service. Read more