Majesty of the Seas Overview
By Marcia Levin, Cruise Critic contributor
(3.5)
Most teenagers "need" something. It might be orthodontia, an iPod or a date for the prom, but it's a safe bet every teen thinks he or she requires something in addition to those "necessities." That's the case as well with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Majesty of Seas, which launched back in 1992. The ship was looking its age, and minor updates simply would not do. Royal Caribbean thought it was time for an extreme makeover.
As such, Majesty of the Seas underwent a significant bow-to-stern revitalization in early 2007 at a cost of approximately $36 million. And on my preview cruise to check out the new Majesty, it appeared that the money was well spent. There's a definite "wow" factor -- with particular highlights including its wonderful new spa and fitness center, three new casual dining venues, completely redesigned teen facilities that are exclusive to the 12 - 17 year old set, and a re-arranged and refurbished pool deck. Other major changes took place in cabins -- with new carpets and bedding and the addition of flat-screen televisions. The Viking Crown Lounge got a whole new look and so did the shops in the Centrum.
One thing didn't change: Standard cabins (inside and out) are contenders for the industry's smallest. At a claustrophobic 122 square ft., fulfilling Royal Caribbean's marketing theme ("get out there") won't be a challenge. And Majesty of the Seas received no additional balconies, so those cabins that do come with verandahs will be priced at a premium.
Still, Majesty of the Seas -- with the help of the refurbishment, to be sure -- wears its years well. I'd sailed on the ship when it originally launched in 1992, and at that time it was considered beautiful and innovative with large lounges, bars, show rooms and sun deck. Its casino was huge and sprawling, its kid facilities adequate (remember this was in the pre-rock climbing walls-skating rink-surf boarding era). Some of the newer bells and whistles may have passed Majesty of the Seas by, even now (there's nary a skating rink, bungee trampoline or surf park aboard) but, with its ever more contemporary decor -- and it's perfectly suited three- and four-night itineraries -- the ship shines.
Majesty of the Seas Fellow Passengers
The three- and four-day market is a magnet for younger cruisers, first-timers, those on a budget or people who just want to get away for a few days.
Majesty of the Seas Dress Code
"Casual" is the operative word, with a caution that shorts aren't permitted in the dining room and cover-ups atop bathing suits are appropriate away from the pool. Slacks and a neat shirt are ideal for men and women for casual dining. Plan on a jacket and tie for men on formal nights, while women can pull out all the stops.
Majesty of the Seas Gratuity
Royal Caribbean passengers are charged $12 per person, per day ($14.25 for suite guests). Gratuities can be prepaid or will be added on a daily basis to passengers' SeaPass accounts during the cruise. Passengers can modify or remove gratuities by visiting the guest services desk while onboard. A 15 percent gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs.
There were 2 of us on this cruise and we are both in our mid 20's. This was only our second cruise, our first was also with Royal Caribbean but on the Freedom of the seas. Having loved that cruise I was a bit hesitant booking a smaller, older ship. ... continue |
Well, where do I begin? We booked this cruise about a month& a half before we set sail. Although we usually just get balcony cabins on a higher level, we decided to splurge as this was a special cruise for myself, my 18 yr old daughter and her best ... continue |
This was my 3rd cruise on the Majesty of the Seas and my 8th cruise overall. I've sailed on Celebrity, Carnival and NCL as well as RCI. RCI is by far my favorite cruise line.
This is not a fancy cruise and you shouldn't expect it to be. I've seen ... continue |
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