Embarkation was the most efficient, quickest and smoothest of any cruise we have ever been on. We drove, so we pulled up and dropped off our bags at the porter station, then parked in the outdoor parking space. We then walked inside and went through security. They had so many separate lines and stations that we were on the ship in 15-20 minutes including getting our picture!

Harmony of the Seas - the ship. WOW! This ship is beautiful and gigantic! We spent most of the first day just exploring the areas of the ship. We entered on the 5th floor, the Royal Promenade which we love in many of the RCI ships. We found the Cafe Promenade, Boleros, a Latin Bar and dance location, Sorrentos, a pizza restaurant, ???? and Bonnets, Guest services and shore excursions. There are many tablet kiosks for passengers to log into and schedule excursions, book shows, make reservations at restaurants and more. The Rising Tides Bar is a small enclosed bar that travels between this 5th floor and the 8th floor Central Park. You can also purchase a WOW Band which is worn like a wrist watch and functions like your sea pass card. It can be used to log into the tablet kiosks, unlock your cabin, order drinks, sign out towels. However, be forewarned that you still need the actual sea pass card when you leave or board the ship.

The Main Dining Rooms are located on floors 3,4, and 5. Traditional dining is on 3rd floor American Icon, and My Time Dining located on 4 and 5, Grande and Silk. For some reason, we were not able to get Traditional Early seating so we had to settle for making reservations in the Grande. The food was very good and the wait staff was excellent. I was very disappointed with the Prime Rib I had on the first night and I have experienced this before on RCI cruises. It had no taste!!! To me, the Prime rib should be almost as good as a Filet Mignon. Not a good way to start. The other meals were delicious. Although it seemed like every meal came with mashed potatoes as the starch and all the portions were very large. Read more