Being semi retired being flexiable, watching for cruise bargins between contracts has become a fun way to get away and pick away at our list of places we would like to visit list. We mix it up a bit, cruise, fly and stay, and lucky enough to go with a sense of adventure and can honestly say we have never been dissapointed. Maybe a bump in the road once in awhile, but it takes something pretty catastrophic to rock our boat. So while checking out some cruises and following the prices for a week or two I woke up one morning coffee in hand and saw this fantastic value for a transatlantic. Having never taken a transatlantic, we had questioned the longer periods of time at sea. We also knew the Brillance of the sea was headed for drydock for updating, so knew things might be a little worn. We have traveled on RCCL before so had confidence we still would have a good time.

We left for San Juan a couple of nights prior to leaving port, mostly out of concern for spring weather, snow in the states, wise choice because we were lucky to be one day in front of the storms. Booked the Comfort Inn for two nights pre cruise. We were happy with our room and stay. Room was dated along with the hotel, but everything was clean, staff helpful, included breakfast. We would stay here again, it is not a resort destination, but it is a close walk to restaurants, beach and bus to San Juan. Since this was pre cruise we did not want to spend a lot of money at the hotel, esp since we were spending a additional week in Portugal after arrival. Would stay here again, hotels in San Juan during cruise season is higher then most cities, but that goes along with the travel.

Emabarkation was quick, smooth and effiecient, this is our 8th cruise on several different lines, and we rank it up there with one of the easiest and most pleasent we have had. This cruise was great from the beginning to the end. Stops in Saint Maartin, Sea Days, overnight in Teneriffe. We had beautiful weather, great seas across, with a few larger seas a couple of nights but nothing uncomfortable. Our Captain Hendidk was absoulutely engaging, imformative, and along with the crew interactive with the people. His sense of humor was appreciated, and it was a change from other cruises to be able to understand him. Activities on board were plentiful and options were varied, so I cannot believe there would not be something to appeal to anyone of any age group or lifestyle. Read more