Independence of the Seas Review
Incredible staff, beautiful ship, amazing experience!
Review for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
CruisinBarb63
First Time Cruiser • Age 60s
Rating by category
Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Service
Additional details
Sail Date: Oct 2015
Cabin: Interior Stateroom
Traveled with children
There were six of us together on this cruise, myself (50 something), my girls, 21, 17, 16 and two of my friends who came along for support (and the cruise of course). We were in two inside, adjoining rooms (1605 & 1607). Two of us were in one room and four in the other. We were also part of a large group on this cruise. From what we could tell, there were at least four large groups on this cruise. The ship was full yet it didn't seem crowded.
We stayed at the Embassy Suites pre-cruise for one night. Most of our cruise group also stayed there. They have an evening reception with cocktails and snacks and a full breakfast in the gorgeous atrium is also included. There is a plaza with restaurants, a grocery store, Total Wine and more a block away. We would definitely stay there again. A quick 10 minute shuttle to the port and we were on our way.
We arrived at port around 10:45 and quickly were on our way. By the time all six of us went thru security, checked in and had our photos taken, they had begun to board. We got in the quickly moving line and before we knew it, we were all aboard! DING!
Cabin Review
Interior Stateroom
Cabin K
The cabin was actually bigger than I anticipated. There was plenty of room for our five suitcases (four went under the beds) and everything that needed to be hung up. There was sufficient storage in the closet, desk and bathroom.
We didn't seem to be bumping into each other except on the last day when the suitcases were being packed.
We didn't spend a lot of time in our room but we did have room service one evening (why not, it's included) and we sat on the beds having our snack.
While I would love to have a balcony or even a JS (we got to see one when it was being cleaned and it was very spacious), unless I got a deal I could not pass up, I will stick with Interior rooms.
Our room was on Deck 10, which is the Suite Deck. We could tell the difference in the service we received from the Suite Deck staff. They know how to treat the passengers for sure!
Port Reviews
Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)
Quick and efficient Embarkation. We used self-debarkation for an early flight and we moved right along once the ship was cleared.
San Juan
We did a self guided walking tour and really enjoyed it. We did some shopping then went to Barracina for dinner and the famous Pina Colada. We were not disappointed.
St. Maarten
We did a tour with Bernard's Tours. We went to Maho and Orient Beach with a stop on the French side of the island for some pastries and shopping. It was a great tour with Mailman as our guide.
St. Kitts (Port Zante)
We were not impressed with St. Kitts. It wasn't as friendly an island as the other two. We also did not feel completely safe walking to our destination even though we were advised it would be a safe walk. I wouldn't be upset if I didn't go to St. Kitts again.
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