We are far from seasoned cruisers, but wanted to try a short trip out of FL this winter in an effort to know more and make the best decision about boat options when planning an Alaska trip in 2016. Our previous cruising involved a wonderful Viking River Cruise in 2012 and a West Indies barefoot cruise on the Polynesia in 1983. We think we were spoiled by both of those ships which had populations of under 200.

We picked a "mini" cruise to Cozumel and Nassau out of Port Canaveral on RC. Our plans were set in January for a February cruise, so the room choices were limited. We did not read a lot of reviews prior to departure, so we let the whole thing unfold, with mild anticipation due to the boat size. But we were pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness and certainly can understand how travelers can quickly become devoted fans. Our cabin was located on the 2nd deck -- and while that may seem down in the bowels, I suspect we benefited from less rock and nice amount of quiet. I would not have wanted to be over the promenade or to feel the boat pitch.

Overall we were pleased with our experience and now have some knowledge to apply toward our trip to Alaska. This ship, while many said was old and we'd heard it was going to be refurbished, seemed quite luxurious to us. 14 floors, glass sided elevators, spas, exercise classes (fee), nice menu choices at dinner, wine bottle saved for the next dinner, some entertaining waitresses. Except for some wear in the cabin (chipped mirror), most of the facilities were great. The movie theatre seats were the most uncomfortable seats I have ever experienced. And the projection was very distorted. I hope that will be addressed in the refurb. We enjoyed all the entertainment, although we're not big fans of Dancing with the Stars, which seem to be hot right now. The ice show was fantastic. Read more