Explorer of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
This was my 24th cruise -- I've also sailed on Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, and Princess. I was pleasantly surprised by the ship's condition -- we last sailed her in August 2009 and she seems to be in similar condition today. Of course there is a little rust here and there, but nothing excessive or unexpected for a ship that sails year-round through the North Atlantic.
Pre-Cruise:
We took Amtrak from Boston to Newark, and stayed at the Hilton Newark Penn Station. The hotel was very nice, and the front desk staff in particular were extremely helpful. The breakfast wasn't very inspiring, but at least it was free as we had booked a concierge level room. The hotel arranged a car service to take us to the port and it was a pleasant and uneventful ride.
Cabin Review
Grand Suite
Good location - but port side cabins tend to have a better view and also avoid any drifting smoke from the smoking area above by the pool. Huge bathroom, lots of storage space. A bit of a hike to the elevators but that made the cabin very quiet.