Booking:

I booked directly with the cruise line which is something I normally don’t do. I just figured with my recent experience with Royal Caribbean (same ownership) trying for months to get a refund through a travel agent I was better off calling them directly. That was a mistake, as I spent many, many hours on hold as a result. The booking itself was the easy part; a balcony cabin, in the way back of the ship. I booked a few days before the cruise so it was paid in full.I know from experience that these cabins have huge balconies, and I’d have to say that this balcony and the room – a handicapped cabin (not requested) was one of the largest cabins and certainly the largest deck I have ever had.

I declined the additional $$ for the Retreat Suites so I’m not sure what I missed, but I’m pretty sure my cabin was as large as any regular Retreat Suite. Not to mention that the cruise was, by my estimation, about 50% full, so there was no need to fight for room or privacy. Read more