Riviera Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We chose this cruise after booking a solo land trip to Japan (November) and a group trip to Southern India (February) with the idea of experiencing a stress free warm weather and near-gourmet experience with a mix of ports (5) and at sea days (4) and no need to wear a suit and tie or more; For the most part we accomplished our purpose(s).
Riviera is somewhat large for us - we've done 20 cruises but most recently on smaller ships like Sea Dream, Star Clipper and Windstar, but also previously on the Regatta and other larger ships in the past. Riviera is classified as a midsized ship (a little over 1200 passengers); after offering some specials, the ship was full.
Embarkation (smooth) started at 11 AM or so and was not limited to any particular class; cabins were made available chronologically based on class (Penthouse by noon, Concierge around 1, and all cabins by 3). I can't speak to luggage distribution: in an abundance of caution we took our own (which I don't recommend, but I did see at least one cruiser who was missing some luggage and would not be seeing it until the end of the cruise). We spent our waiting time in the Terrace restaurant which was crowded but provided a nice buffet lunch for all.
Cabin Review
Concierge Level
Our cabin 10082 was designated A1 as an "upgrade" from A4 which we booked. I have no idea what the difference is but we had adequate closet and storage space, the bed was nice (pillows were too large and heavy) and the verandah was fairly nice (two chairs and table ala 1960's suburbia - wish there was room for recliners). Bathroom had separate shower and bath; bath salts provided were no biggie but other amenities were nice. The room wasn't soundproof but we rarely heard noises from our neighbors.
Port Reviews
Miami
Not a favorite; I do like Vizcaya.
Tortola
Very nice beaches available to beat the cruise crowds; you can also ferry over to Jost Van Dyke or Virgin Gorda (and probably other places) if you plan ahead.
Barbados
We've been to Harrison's Cave, Crane Beach, Barbados Hilton,done an Island tour and had a a lunch at Sandy Lane which gave us use of a room and their facilities at no charge (off season); there are no bad choices on this Island.
St. Barts
It's french; it has good food and beaches and the people on the beaches are pretty attractive which beats any place in Europe or the US. A bit expensive.
St. John (U.S.V.I.)
360 degree circumnavigation of the Island by fast boat.