Here is a brief review of our 10/24/13 Halloween cruise on the Splendor. This was our (me, DH and 3 yr old DS) first time on the Splendor and after a so-so experience on the Miracle last year, I admit I went in with low expectations. I'm happy to report that we really enjoyed this cruise and even booked the Splendor again for next year.

Embarkation: we arrived at the port, parked and were in the Platinum lounge waiting to board shortly before 11am. Going through security was a breeze--hardly any lines and good job by the port staff directing people. We had a small carry-on with water and lots of juice boxes and we're never asked about it at all. The Platinum lounge had couches and lemonade and water and wasn't very crowded. We didn't begin boarding until about 11:45 which was later than usual, but I think there were some wedding parties. Still a great, easy embarkation. Best part was that when we went to our cabin to drop off our carry ons, our checked luggage (2 bags) was there waiting for us! That's the fastest ever! We decided to unpack before going over to the lido for lunch which was a mistake. By the time we got there at a little before 1, it was already a madhouse and it was that way for much of the cruise. We went up to the rotisserie on deck 10 which few know about so it was way more relaxed up there.

Cabin: we had a balcony on the lido deck (9) close to the elevators (not all the way forward) and while we loved the location, only draw back was the noise. We've had cabins near the elevators before which never bothered us, but this time it was unnecessary noise like people talking loudly right outside our door at night and an actual fight that broke out about 1:30am. Our steward was Nolito from the Phillippines and his assistant Mei. They were wonderful! Read more