Symphony of the Seas Review
Lots to enjoy but a few disappointments
Rating by category
Additional details
We chose this ship because it is brand new, and we had a very good experience on Liberty of the Seas in its inaugural season.
Food was overall good. Dinner in 150 Central Park was outstanding with great service, unique dishes, and very upscale ambiance. Food in the various buffets was sometimes served warmish at best. A great variety of dishes to choose from. El Loco Fresh served a tasty selection of Tex-Mex options. I was not impressed by the Solarium restaurant, which had a pleasant atmosphere but only lukewarm food. Breakfast at Johnny Rockets was good if you don't mind a little wait while they cook it to order. It gets very busy at times. Dog House was novel but ordinary and only warm cole slaw to go with the sandwiches. Park Cafe was good for a quick bite and pleasant to sit in Central Park, which is less busy and congested than Royal Promenade. Did enjoy all the options at Royal Promenade, especially Sorrento's, and the Rising Tide which was my favorite bar on the ship with its personable bartenders and great drinks. The drink I ordered at Bionic Bar was not to my liking because it had coconut flavored liquor in a vodka/cranberry drink.
Had a blast on the water slides and the Ultimate Abyss, and appreciated the staff who kept things moving and made sure everyone was safe. Pools were best earlier in the day or on port days when they weren't as crowded.
Cabin Review
Ocean View Balcony
The cabin was spacious for two, at the front of deck 12, balcony. Well laid out and comfortable. We liked the firm beds. Bathroom also nice, but no lotions or other niceties, and no facial tissue dispenser. There was a box of tissues in the cabin. Shower had a dispenser for shower gel/shampoo and there were bar soaps for hand washing. Really appreciated the built in night light in the bathroom.
Seating area was comfortable and converted to a pull out bed to accommodate a third and fourth passenger. That would have made it crowded.
Our cabin attendant was prompt to bring extra pillows and drinking glasses at our request. He was efficient and accommodated our lazy habits, keeping things tidied up while we were out.
Port Reviews
San Juan
San Juan is a favorite stop and we've been coming here for many years. We just like to wander around Old San Juan visiting familiar sites. Lots of shops to browse around in and the bars on Calle Cristo have cheap drinks. The old forts are very interesting for first time visitors, as is the old cathedral with the tomb of Juan Ponce de Leon.
Labadee
A nice private beach stop. We've been here several times before but I wanted to ride the Dragon Tail coaster, which was a blast but I felt a bit pricey. One ride was enough for me but an all day pass is available for those who want too much of a good thing. No zip lining for me, thank you very much, although those who try it seem to really enjoy it.