Allure of the Seas Review
Too many passengers; not enough facilities
Rating by category
Additional details
We ere excited to cruise on one of the new super ships, the Allure of the Seas. We have sailed several times before, but on smaller ships. The ship is huge, and carries over 5500 passengers! And that is the problem... it has more people than it can comfortably handle. All dining needs to be either pre-scheduled (early or late seating), or dine-at-your-own-time only by reservation that morning! Unless you like long waits.
Pool space is very small. Two deck pools, not much bigger than your neighbor's. Standing room only, if that. Hot tubs, only a few. 5500 passengers, mind you. They no longer offer an adult swimming pool in the Solarium, just an oversized circular sit and get your feet wet tub.
Service was generally cold and impersonal. Except for housekeeping, most of the staff were overwhelmed by people and you never got to know them.
Cabin Review
Large Interior Stateroom
Nice cabin. We opted for the slightly larger size. Small showers and sink, of course, but typical of cruises. Comfy bed, nice TV (not that we watched it much). Could use a little more shelf/closet space, Interior, deck 7 so not too far to walk upstairs or downstairs.
Port Reviews
San Juan
Ship was only docked for half a day; had to be back on board by 1:30pm. Not much time for sight seeing beyond a short stroll along the tourist shops.
Labadee
They have really fixed up the island. Beautiful beaches and calm swimming lagoons. Rent a water mattress float for $17; but the zipline is pricey at $125 and only one run. Not worth it.
Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)
Stayed the day before our cruise at Embassy suites. Always hate to fly in on the same day as the cruise, in case of airline delays. Very nice hotel.