Vision of the Seas Review
3.5 / 5.0
Racemedic2012
2-5 Cruises • Age 60s
Rating by category
Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
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Additional details
Sail Date: Feb 2016
Cabin: Interior Stateroom
We booked this cruise over 8 months ago. After having sailed aboard the Freedom class ship on our last cruise, we decided to scale back to a smaller, less 'busy' ship. Vision of the Seas fit the bill perfectly. The refurb it underwent in 2013 really brought everything up to snuff. It is clean, beautifully decorated, and fully operational. No "Sorry, this amenity is out of order" signs were found anywhere at any time.
Emabrkation in the Port of Tampa was a breeze. Took about 25 minutes from the time we dropped off our bags curbside until we were aboard and enjoying lunch in the Windjammer. The port authorities (TSA, local law enforcement, RCI staff) are pleasant and keep things moving quite efficiently.
Once onboard we could wander the ship at will except for the stateroom areas. Those were closed until 1:00pm in order to complete cleaning and restocking. No worries though, as there were plenty of food and beverage options available. We sailed promptly at 4:00pm and enjoyed a lively "sail away party" on the pool deck.
Cabin Review
Interior Stateroom
Cabin N
The cabin is located directly above the "Schooner Bar." If you'd rather not hear music while in your cabin, don't choose this one. It does end by midnight, but that may be too late for some folks. Also, the "crew only" door adjacent to the cabin is accessed regularly. Again, if this bothers you choose another cabin.
Port Reviews
Tampa
Embarkation and disembarkation were fast and efficient.
Roatan
RCI ports on the side of the island opposite the beaches. Taxis and shuttles are available to take you where ever you want to go and are very reasonable. If you want to explore the area close to the ship, be aware it isn't Beverly Hills. It is a working class neighborhood. Not fancy, but quaint and quite safe. There are usually a few locals just outside the port exit who are eager to show you around the area. Gratuities are appreciated but they don't push it.
Belize City
The port area was great. We didn't venture outside the port because we found everything we wanted inside it. Rumors of a recent increase in crime in Belize are floating around, but we didn't see any evidence of it.
Costa Maya
Took a taxi to Mahahual for 2 bucks a person and spent the day at "Tropicante." This is an American owned 'resort' on the beach. Loungers, umbrellas, and picnic tables are available either in shade or right on the beach in the sun. Plenty of food and drink AND you can get a massage (outdoors) for $30 bucks an hour! What a deal!
P.S. In order to find a taxi, you have to exit the port and walk about 100 yds. from it. Taxis are cheaper than shuttles and take you where you want to go rather than where they get a kickback. ;-)
Cozumel
Easily the busiest (and most crowded) port of all on this cruise. Seven ships in port on the day we were there and every one was stepping on each other it seemed. Again, we took a taxi from outside the International port exit to town. Cheaper and more attentive to your wished than a shuttle. Did some shopping and had a beer at "Senor Frogs" then headed back to the port. Hung out at Pepe's on the Pier" for a while until the rain moved in, then back to the ship and away from the crowds.
5 Helpful Votes
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