I chose this cruise as I wanted to experience a huge ship- and it did not disappoint me. While there were over 6000 passengers-the only time it felt like that was during boarding and disembarkment. Even then, the process was relatively smooth for the number of people involved. The gem onboard was the Vintages Wine Bar! The sommelier staff was engaging, knowledgeable and a wonderful asset to the place! The wine list was impressive. And on the first day our group individually described to the sommelier our likes and preferences in wines and asked for a recommendations for each of us. All choices for our group of 6 were perfect! They held 4 wine tastings during the at sea times-French wines, Caymus wines, Italian wines, and a ‘special vintages’ tasting session. All 6 of us attended all of the tastings and were delighted and learned so much about wine and proper food pairings. Additionally, they held a Wine and Food pairing dinner that was a reasonable cost and I can’t say enough about how fabulous this was. It was a very limited number of people for the pairing dinner-and that made it all that much better! You had full attention of the sommelier staff as well as the the kitchen. They made adjustments to menus and assisted with selection of food to fit our individual tastes. It was truly an amazing experience. If you enjoy good food with wine-this is one location you can’t miss! Rohan and Josten are well versed in wine and food. Nemagna and Amaury were wonderful complements to this team! You won’t be disappointed. Next, the beach bungalows for up to 8 people are SO WORTH the cost of $250 for your group! Not only did it give you some distance from the crowds- but you had your own personal attendants to assist with drink procurement and information, and there was respite shade when the sun became too hot. Food in the Windjammer and dining rooms was good, but not great. I have had better on other RC ships.

If you are interested in how the ship operates ‘behind the scenes’, the All Access Tour was made for you! All baked goods are prepared and cooked onboard, just the room to prep the meat alone is impressive. The laundry facilities are incredible and massive. And of course the tour of the bridge is the highlight. Your tour guides uses a special microphone to headsets for each person so that you never miss his/her information. Security is tight on board-and it just adds to the feeling of safety for all passengers.

The ship itself is just so impressive. The working carousel, Boardwalk, Promenade and multiple theaters just add to the entertainment value of the ship. There are 2 Flow Riders, a short zip line, and lots of pools so that you never feel like your are crowded no matter where you are. Shows and entertainment are spectacular. The jogging track and fitness center are sure to please the active individual.