We have cruised with Royal Caribbean approximately 8 times...VERY LOYAL. We have also just cruised with one other cruise line [Carnival] about three years ago. This past week we have noticed significant changes in the value prop that give us clear pause on whether cruising with RCCL is the way to go. In the past, we felt cruising was a good value compared to other types of vacations. Some examples include extra fees for certain menu entrees in the dining room, significant increase in beverage costs...most drinks were $12.98 each and just overall, it feels like everything we did had an extra hidden cost that had previously been INCLUDED as part of the cruise package in the past. I will say the staff was very upfront with every instance (and there were a lot of instances) with telling us beforehand that 'such in such would be an extra fee'. Based on my experience last week, I couldn't in good conscience say that RCCL is a great VALUE. I think that our overall experience was fine but the "value" part of the equation is probably going to be another cruise line.

Embarkation / Disembarkation: Our embarkation was quick and smooth. Our disembarkation was via the self-assist and we were off the ship by 6:45 a.m. which was excellent.

Ship / Entertainment and Activities: Oasis of the Seas offers a very clean ship with plenty of activities and entertainment both aboard and onshore. We traveled with children and there were plenty of activities for them too. Read more