Oasis of the Seas Review
Great entertainment, very poor food, especially Buffet !
Rating by category
Additional details
As one who has been "loyal to royal" since the late 1970's, it has been wonderful to experience the innovative ships and amazing entertainment options. I have cruised on Oasis several times and my only disappointment is that due to the enormous expense, RCCL continues to run the same main program, Cats. Service on this cruise seemed even better than usual (which is already extremely accommodating), and even personality and demeanor of hotel desk personnel has improved dramatically, a great sign ! The cabin service ("D" on this cruise) was outstanding as usual, but "D" was the best of the best, cleaning the small areas usually overlooked (behind the couch, etc.). GREAT experience.
All shows were wonderful, not to be missed. Even those who usually would not be interested in an ice show should see this one, amazing, not just "a couple skaters" on a small patch of ice; this is a full scale ice show and you are much closer to the action than sitting in a large dome stadium. Come Fly with Me is a show bound to keep the attention of even the smallest cruiser, and though the "Headliner" shows on all RCCL ships can be hit and miss, this one was definitely a HIT. Not just a very good Elton John tribute performer, but the audience was in for quite a surprise with his guitar repertoire .. I'll say no more, you will be amazed at this talent ! Everyone should experience the Oasis class ships, couples, singles, families, there is so much to see and do you will wonder where the week went.
The low point was the food. Not that you are in danger to loosing weight, but the temptations are fewer on each cruise. Those who never cruised ten years ago, let alone 30 or more, even noticed "this was not what we expected after seeing and reading the RCCL ads".
Cabin Review
Boardwalk View Stateroom with Balcony
This is my favorite location, and this time came with some surprise "perks" (free sodas, private rock climbing session, etc. ) though I did not use them, but a nice gesture on the part of RCCL ! The cabin attendant "D" (Darwin) was probably the best in a long line of always TOP attendants we've had through the years. I don't care for the poor quality products RCCL now uses (toiletries) so I bring my own, but the robes, hairdryer, shower and compact bathroom are clean and efficient. RCCL cabins all seem to be smaller than similar categories on other lines, so it is difficult if two people share a room and the beds are separated; almost impossible to get into the closet unless bed is in single formation. Nice view of the boardwalk and the aqua stage, quiet (never heard the merry-go-round or other sounds once door is closed and secured (sealed) to the balcony).
Port Reviews
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
The new terminal is really amazing; even larger and more efficient than the (also) newer terminal used by Freedom when she was ported at Canaveral.
Labadee
Unfortunately the weather was miserable ! Few passengers even ventured onto the island; too bad, this is usually a highlight of most RCCL Caribbean itineraries. Rating has nothing to do with RCCL, but unfortunately the software program does not offer choices like NA, or alternatives due to weather.
Falmouth
Tickets easily purchased at the Trolley station within the secured port area; tour is $25 for adults and offers a covered waiting area, benches, etc.
Costa Maya
Costa Maya was an unexpected treat for sure ! Many years ago we had taken our children to see the ritual of the "pole flyers"; an ancient Mayan ritual and spiritual experience rooted in the elements of the earth and a breath taking spectacle that will have your "heart in your throat". What an unexpected treat to find this cultural experience has been preserved and is now available FREE of charge at the port in Costa Maya ! I do not recall the price of viewing this ritual years ago, but it was not "inexpensive" to take our children to see this, but well worth the cost as I have never forgotten it. Now, Costa Maya has reproduced a model of an ancient Mayan temple and erected the ceremonial pole (dizzying height), from which the "flyers" hang, by their ankles with nothing but the concrete courtyard below ! The young flyers, from 16 to early 20's, are from a cultural school that has been established to preserve the culture, religion, and rituals and rely on the donations of the tourists who view this spectacle at the port to support the school.
Cozumel
Compared to Costa Maya, all I can say is, Cozumel is Cozumel. The ship does not dock or anchor near the town, and all beach trips would require cab fare or purchase of a ship's offering. For those who have never visited Cozumel, I highly recommend a short hydro ferry to the mainland and then a tour to the ruins ! This will take most of a day, especially if you include a stop at the snorkeling park Xel Ha !!!