I realize I have nothing to compare the Royal to but I thought it was a gorgeous ship and we had a wonderful time! I really was surprised at how much people on the ship were complaining about things but I guess they have more experience than I do!

I was impressed with how quickly we were able to board the ship--very easy and painless process--have your passport and travel summary and you are good to go! We were on the ship within a half hour of arriving at the dock! Our room (a deluxe balcony) was ready so we dropped our carry on bags off, checked it all out and headed to lunch!

The elevator is slow to come but quick to close--so quick my 14 year old daughter got on ahead of me and the elevator slammed shut and off she went without me! Off to a great start! She rode the elevator til she got back to me and then we went to the Horizon Court. I again lost her because the place is so huge and it all starts to look the same! Quick tip- there is light and dark wood furniture in the different dining rooms--pick one style and stay in that area! I thought the food was wonderful and there was so much to choose from! We ate there for most breakfasts and even a few times for lunch and dinner. We had Anytime Dining and ate in both the dining rooms--they seemed equally nice to us. All the staff we encountered throughout the ship were very polite, friendly and so helpful! We never had to wait for anyone to offer us anything--there was always someone asking what they could do for us. We enjoyed the complimentary room service a few times too--best chocolate fudge cake ever!! We had rough seas all week and you could feel it as you walked around and especially when you laid down but it never felt so bad I got seasick or anything (my daughter did not feel well a few times so she took Dramamine). Read more