We were a family of 8 (4 adults and 4 children aged 13, 12, 9 and 2 years) looking for a cruise that would suit 3 generations - myself, my husband, my daughter, my son-in-law and 4 grandchildren. Independence of the Seas certainly catered for all of us, whether relaxing on deck, having fun at the Aqua Park/swimming pools with the kids, watching people on the Flow-rider, mini-golf or Ice-skating for the kids with the superb Ice-shows for all the family and also the wonderful shows in the Theatre. We took a flight from Edinburgh to Southampton (all booked for us) was met by the Rep at Southampton and taken by coach to the Dock. As soon as we got on board we headed for the Windjammer Buffet for a lovely lunch with lots of choice to suit everybody but in the evening we ate in the Dining Room where our Table for 8 was booked for us each evening and served to us by our very attentive Waiters (2) - breakfast or other meals could be served in the Cabin if you wished. The service by all the crew was great and our Cabin (which was of good size) was kept spotless by our Cabin steward - each evening it was lovely to come back to find a different "Animal Towel" on our bed! There are children's Club for children of all ages - toys available for the little ones. We very much enjoyed all the Ports of call and visiting the local markets. We all enjoyed the whole cruise - one piece of advice - go for the tickets for the Ice-shows at 8am on the day available. Disembarking was no problem with the coach back to Southampton and our onward flight to Edinburgh all arranged for us.