I was really impressed with the Serenade. Only problem I had was I like a cigar and there was no "cigar bar". (designated smoke area only). The service, the food, and the shows were top notch for what you would expect on any cruise ship. The crowd on the ship was more mature (which was a plus) because this time of year no kids were on break. This is my 4th aboard Royal, 2 radiance class, 2 voyager class, and I liked going back to the smaller crowd. The excursions we did were all booked through Royal. I've got some advice here--- go w/your cruise line excursions --- they will make sure you get back to your ship and there is a bit of quality to the excursion (long story, not worth it here!). We had two days at sea out of New Orleans (good food, dirty city!) Jamaica was OK, did Dunn River Falls who anybody can do if you can walk well. Next day was Grand Cayman. We went to snorkel the Kittiwake. I'm telling you, if you have never seen a ship under water, DO IT! Fantastic! We did the catamaran and it was memorable, trust me. Next, salsa/salsa in Cozumel. OMG! Thank heaven you got to eat some chips and salsa while you learned how to make same. Very entertaining and fun. Ya didn't care 'bout 1/2 Senior Frogs on the way back to the ship!!!! Next day was back to 65 degrees and the US. (It was 85 in the 3 ports) Embark and debark was flawless. Royal has got if going on. I can't tell you how many people on other cruise lines were not happy about their service, but I can't say that. Next up ---- Port Canaveral and the Freedom!!!!