Majesty of the Seas Review
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 15-year-old Majesty of Seas. 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.
Read Complete Majesty of the Seas Review
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