Jewel of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We enjoy the Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruises out of Puerto Rico. Nothing like jumping on the boat and hitting a new port every day.
Embarkation. We boarded later than usual, after the staterooms were open. No line up in the terminal and so much easier when getting on the boat! We'll do this from now on.
Staff. As always, the staff on the Jewel are terrific. Really great cabin attendant - attentive, efficient, effective. The Diamond concierge seemed to know everyone within the first 24 hours and made us feel like valued members of the Royal family. We saw first hand the devastation left by Irma and Maria - quite an eye opener. Despite the troubles experienced by the islanders, we felt welcome and appreciated.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony
Deluxe cabin ... so love seat vice sofa ... but we knew that when we booked. We don't spend much time in the cabin. Big balcony, partially obstructed. Lots of storage space, in the stateroom and in the bathroom.
Bed ... like a quilt on top of a piece of concrete with pillows so thin they look like wafers.
Port Reviews
Martinique
People here are very stand-offish. Did not feel welcome. Though fluently bilingual, locals did not want to communicate in French ... or in English. Seemed like we were imposing. If I ever take another cruise here, will not bother getting off the boat.
St. Croix
Know the port well. Got off the boat, turned left, walked down the beach. Lots of destruction from Irma and Maria; so sad. Found our favourite bar was no longer there ... just the concrete slab ... Moved out to the road and walked another 1/2 mile down to the only restaurant/bar still providing service; it was great!
Did not take a ship's excursion.
St. Maarten
This port too was heavily damaged by the hurricanes that swept through late 2017, but what an industrious people. Everywhere you looked, repairs were ongoing. The attitude of the locals was very refreshing - we had some trouble and we're working it out!
Spent the day on the beach. Great weather. Great beer. Great day!