
We caught the cruise bug after a 32 year hiatus (it's called putting kids thru school!) and after 2 wonderful cruises on the Vista 2018 and Symphony 2019 we couldnt wait to get back. The AOS out of Nassau allowed us the first cruise back. We were the 6th time out, and the staff told us that several things that weren't allowed were starting to be added back, such as the dance party on pool deck in the evening, silent disco, and some games. Son loved the disco. Getting to Nassau with all the paperwork was exhausting but it wasn't RCCL's fault.
Check in at the Hilton was easy and actually early (we got the first slot at 12PM and we started early and DONE by 1205!). They bussed us to the dock and we walked the rest of the way (without luggage) and were on the ship by 1230. Rooms weren't ready til 2 so we hit the Windjammer. I'm not a big buffet fan but the WJ was one of the better, even moreso than on the SOS. Wasn't open for dinner but lunch and breakfast were easy to get in without any crowds. Service outstanding.
The ship itself was spotless and very well done. After being on the Symphony last, it wasn't a fair comparison. But I never saw the rust, age, etc that some complained about. I was very pleased. Only issue I saw were the dated balcony rooms my kids got on 7. Smallish and needed sprucing up. But the ship itself was impressive.
Had the Grand Suite 1 bedroom . Absolutely loved it. My grown kids had balconies on 7 and they were tiny and dated, so they all came up to our suite in the evening. Had plenty of room with the two chairs and large couch. Nicest room we've ever had. Double sized balcony. Floor 10 so convenient to pool deck above. Huge bathroom. TONS of storage. Highly recommend splurging especially when rates are cheap. Oh, also got free room service. When the kids all came up we'd order a feast!
Dolphin Encounter was the bomb. Wonderful for all ages. Highly recommende.d
Once you're away from the dock area, it's pretty rough. Did the buggy/snorkel tour. Everywhere you stop they swarm you with sales of trinkets, etc. All planned stops by the company we were sure. Sorta "bus drivers eat free".