Expectations were high, but I have to say that this ship doesn't disappoint. I really think this ship is a first class engineering marvel. It doesn't have the glass of the Radiance class or the intimacy of the smaller ships, but it surpasses any other cruise experience we have had. The ship is truly amazing, and worthy of the title "a destination in and of itself."

DW & I sailed on the 4 night Labadee Extravaganza, and our overall experience was excellent. Royal Caribbean has really made tremendous efforts to control overcrowding, and I think for the most part, they have been successful. I didn't feel any more crowded on this ship than any other we've been on. In fact, embarkation and debarkation were a breeze -- probably the best we've ever had. You basically check in with no lines because there are so many counters and then just walk on the ship.

Another effort to control over crowding was the pool areas. I wasn't sure that I was a fan of splitting up the pool areas, but after being on board I think it was genius. Parents with kids can hang out around the H20 zone. The Sports Pool, Main Pool, and Beach pool all feel like their own area, and there are deck chairs literally everywhere. There were only about 5000 pax onboard, but I never felt crowded at the pool, and if you're just wanting to lay in the sun (or the shade) there are options everywhere. Furthermore, the Solarium was a pleasant surprise. As it was one of the last areas to be completed, I didn't know that much about it going in, but it is truly a beautiful area. The ship is just so wide that it allows for plenty of space inside. There is a nice stream of water running throughout the Solarium, and there are three extra hot tubs in the Solarium, not counting the large cantilevered ones that are just outside the Solarium entrance. This area also includes a Bistro (actually enclosed by glass and air conditioned), and a second level where the bar is. Loved the Solarium, and while it wasn't completely covered, it was a big improvement over the Voyager/Freedom class Solarium IMHO. Read more