
We cruised with a very large group of people from our dance studio. (49 dancers aged 7-17 and their families totaling 189 people). The kids performed a 35 minute show in the Royal Theatre on the sea day.
Our cruise departed from Terminal A in Miami and the embarkation process went smoothly and quickly. It was less than 30 minutes from driving onto the ramp of the parking garage to getting our first drink at the Lime and Coconut.
Overall Impression: The ship, having just been through its major “amped” renovation, was gorgeous and in great condition. Over the course of the cruise, we spent time in Copper&Kettle, Playmakers (Michigan was playing for the College World Series Championship so several of us watched), Schooner Bar, R Bar, Boleros, Cosmopolitan Club, Star Lounge, and had occasion to utilize the bar in the Casino. All of them were immaculate and crew kept them clean with readily available service. We did not have to wait an unreasonable time at any bar while on the cruise. Note: the swim up bar on CoCoCay and the Lime and the Coconut had the longest waits, but they were not horrible.
Our cabin was just fine. We had our Stateroom attendant split our king bed and bring down one Pullman for our teen. It was perfect. The room was clean, we had towel animals, and in general were very happy.
We spent two ore cruise days at the aha toon Inn and Suites Brickell. We went to Ocean Dr. and South Beach. It was great.
We walked through the straw market and bartered for some souvenirs. It was oppressively hot, so we chose not to spend a lot of time on shore and instead returned to the ship to hang out at the pool.
We didn’t have an excursion, but did rent a cabana.