Independence of the Seas Review

Novice cruiser report

Review for the Western Caribbean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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viserendipity
First Time Cruiser • Age 70s

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: Nov 2018
Cabin: Ocean View Balcony

Trip was a gift for me, a novice cruiser. We chose based on timing, cruise line and port we wanted (Fort Lauderdale). For my first time, I was pleasantly surprised. First, the service staff was great with one exception of a scowling bar server who tried to serve me an upcharged drink (special brand liquor rather than house) that I didn't order. Food was more than adequate, and sometimes surpassing expectations.

I loved the opportunities to sunbathe on the decks, and dine leisurely on My Time Dining. Didn't bother to check out any specialty restaurants. Shopping didn't interest me, but there were some good deals at the end on t-shirts and watches. Liked some of the entertainment, including trivia games, but I really felt that the lack of blues/jazz lounge was disappointing to me. I didn't take advantage of many activities like the casino or virtual rides or even pool. Did attend one fitness class first am, it was fine!

Our two shore excursions - to Labadee, Haiti and to Falmouth ,Jamaica, went off without any problems. We enjoyed the beaches and buffet lunch at Labadee, and in Jamaica, we had a blast doing the Dunns River Waterfall Climb followed by some gentle river tubing.

Cabin Review

Ocean View Balcony

I am not revealing which room we had because it was so great. My first cruise and I was elated how lucky we were to get an aft balcony room.

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