After reading some of the reviews we were dreading going on the Independance of the seas however we were pleasantly surprised. I have been on P&O and Princess before which were both excellent but found the service and facilities on independance of the seas to be superior. Embarkation was also much easier than both. We travelled as a family with a 5 year old child, who had the best holiday ever and wants to return next year. All staff, except one, were fantastic, especially Made in the main dining room and made our daughter feel very welcome. The ship itself is beautiful and although busy we never had to wait to be served and always found a table, We assume that royal Carribean have tried to address some of the issues with waits etc detailed in the reviews. There are loads of activities for families and the entertainment was great. The food quality on the main dining room is not the best but it's adequate and still a pleasant dining experience. The passengers were also very courteous to each other and there was a good mix of ages and nationalities. The staff work extremely hard and deserve recognition for the fantastic service they deliver. Would definately recommend.