We booked the Explorer of the Seas for the 5th year in a row. We usually cruise Easter break but decided to do Presidents Week this time. The only concerns I had were rough seas (none!) and too many kids (1300 +). Both turned out to be a no issue.
We originally booked online through rci website then looked for the best t.a. deal and transferred over. Immediately after that I got a call from the t.a. and royal upgraded us to an owners suite! We were so excited. There were 5 of us sailing (me, hubby, & 3 sons). After the excitement, concern over came us because of the one bathroom/one shower situation which turned out to worked fine for us.
The day of embarkation we arrived around 11:00 a.m and it was smooth check-in & shuttle ride. No complaints. We were able to roam the ship, eat and drink until our rooms were ready at 1:00 p.m.
Barbados Suite, Cabin 1292. Nice roomy cabin, midship. Did not hear neighbors on either side. there was a maintenance room across from us but no noises. Did hear some noises from above at night- sounded like chairs moving or lounge chairs. never found out because it did not bother us enough.