Vision of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We just returned from 5 fun filled days on Vision of the Seas! RCI has never disappointed us, and this time was no exception.
The ship was clean and well maintained. Everything worked and looked great! That said, there is no getting around the fact that Vision is one of the oldest and smallest ships in the fleet. There are many features the boat doesn't have, but we focused on what it does offer.
Being smaller, getting on and off the ship and getting around was a snap. The crew was by far the most enthusiastic we've ever experienced. The Captain even sang with the band in the Centrum! The whole senior staff participated in a pool volleyball tournament and the on board activities never stopped.
Cabin Review
Interior Stateroom
The cabin was the smallest I've ever had. This was especially evident in the bathroom. We got along fine, but getting a larger room would be worth a few extra bucks.
Port Reviews
Galveston
Galveston is frequently criticized for being a long way from the airport and for being overly industrial. I agree the port is a long way from the airport, but it is just a block from the Strand, which is a quaint old tourist district with museums, bars, restaurants and unique shops. A little further and you find many more museums, including seawolf park, which has a WWII sub you can tour. The beach isn't great, but the town offers much more than most realize.
Progreso
Progresso has never really impressed me, but I can understand the appeal. You dock at the end of a very long pier. In fact, the world's longest pier. There is a small shopping area there and you must go through it if you want to take an excursion or visit the town itself. The shopping area is much like Cozumel. Lots of jewelry, t-shirts and over priced trinkets.
We took the free shuttle bus to town. (Walking the pier is not allowed and it is 5 miles anyway) Once there, it was much like Mexican ports were before cruising became so popular. It is a bit run down, but lots of enthusiastic street vendors selling their wares. These are mostly hats and hand made goods. Bartering is expected in town and cash is a must. If this is your thing, then this is your port. Otherwise, you might consider an excursion to a cenote or to Chitzen Itza.