Just back from a good sailing on the Vision of the Seas. We left from Venice, Italy and unfortunately did not have any time to explore Venice prior to our cruise due to a very bad experience with Transat Air's cruise ship transfers. (long story which I will tell in a separate review for Transat).

Check in for the cruise was a breeze, no lines etc. because I think we may have been the last people to board the ship. The cabins were ready and let me just say...they are really small. The ship itself is small and older but well maintained and spotless.

Dining in the main dining room was a big disappointment. You can clearly see where Royal is cutting way back on quality options in the regular dining rooms as a way to "strongly encourage" guests to try the dining options that you pay extra for. I must say that this is the first cruise (out of at least 38) that the desserts where really bad...in fact all the dining options that were included in our cruise fare were pretty lackluster. (Not what I am used to having sailed recently on Celebrity and NCL) Royal is really skimping on the quality and the quantity of dining selections. That being said, we didn't starve and always found something to eat. I only mention this because many people complained about the food. The buffet was typical but small. I must what The Vision did do really well was the omelete station....very organized and efficient. The staff working in the buffet were absolutely wonderful, helpful and very nice. Read more