This was our 14th cruising experience. We had a delightful week. As Platinum members with RC, embarkation was a breeze in Ft. Lauderdale. We got there a day early and enjoyed a stroll down Seabreeze Blvd. Saturday morning along the beach. Had dinner at Coconut Waterside Grill Friday night - wonderful and we're sure to return. Love the Independence of the Seas. Size of ship offers enhanced amenities, Best fitness room ever. it seems so much easier to get around that on other ships over the years. Dinner room staff and room steward were certainly pleasant and adequate, no complaints, but didn't stand out in comparison. Had a few minor issues/encounters with staff, and they were superb in the attitude and ability to resolve issues. Food was good, entertainment was fun, at sea days were fun - no rain but a little too much wind, ports were very good - St. Maarten, St. Kitts, San Juan, Labadee. Wasn't especially looking forward to San Juan or Labadee, but both proved to be enjoyable days. Walking around San Juan is very nice. Labadee feels like Disney Caribbean. Wish we had skipped the excursion in St. Maarten (Philipsburg) and just enjoyed the public beach by the water taxi depot. All ports had dock facilities, so we didn't have to suffer tenders.

Bought the unlimited WIFI package which covers two devices and shared with friend. WIFI service gets better and better. We had a 10 bottle wine package we had bought pre-cruise, but apparently they are now doing away with those packages.

Based on our cruising experience, RC is certainly our prefer cruise ship company in the Caribbean.