I am not one to normally pen a review following a bad experience, however after my vacation last week aboard the MS Independence of the Seas, I felt it necessary to voice my concerns. Let me begin by saying that I have cruised fairly regularly since childhood. I have seen numerous changes (some good/some bad) across the board within the cruise industry. I would have to say that Celebrity, up to this point, has been my preferred cruise line, however having children has driven me to consider CCL, NCL, and RCCL over the past several years. This most recent cruise was not chosen because my good friend and colleague and his wife (RCCL Diamond members) had booked this cruise. We had all vacationed together once before and had such an enjoyable time cruising together, we figured we’d join them.

With that said, allow me to detail the events that occurred on our sailing:

• Shortly after departing Port Everglades, my 2 sons and I went up to the FlowRider on Aft, Deck 13. One of my sons noticed a pile of pink emesis (vomit) that was simply roped off in an area directly across from the sign in area. How long it had been there is anyone’s guess, but no one seemed to be attending to it nor was it covered with anything. Considering all the issues you worry about with disease, etc., it surely cannot comply with current health standards aboard cruise ships Read more