This was our 4th cruise, 2nd on Fantasy. We drove to New Orleans from Memphis on embarkation day. Our first Fantasy check-in was quick & painless; this time, not so much. It seemed we picked the longest line which, for whatever reason, didn't move for over 45 minutes. Once it moved, it went pretty quickly.

The positives: the ship was spotless, even though the crew had their hands full with all the vomiting going on. Sorry. There was just a lot of it. But they kept well on top of it. Our room steward was the best we've had yet. She was more like a butler than a steward! She kept checking on us, did extra things without being asked, and even nursed us a bit when we needed it! She was truly a joy. The day in Cozumel was fun, even though it rained--after 6 weeks of rain in Memphis, I was really looking forward to some sunshine, alas--but DH & I (since we got a break from being tossed around) had fun swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, & playing on the water toys at Paradise Beach, even though it was overcast & rained a couple of times. Apparently the rest of the island got deluged...we drove through a few ponds on the way back to the ship. It was too short, though, since the ship had to leave early to outrun Hurricane Ida. When we got back on the ship, before sailaway, we went down the waterslides a few times & that was fun. Love the new waterpark! During sailaway from Coz, I was completely mesmerized by that gorgeous blue water, and how the agitation of the propellers turns the water bright blue. I will never tire of that!

The crew on the Fantasy is almost unreal in how friendly and cordial they all are. Our waiter, Redempto, was excellent--not the most outgoing person, but extremely polite and warm. And competent. The maitre d' (Stan the Man) gave us a table for 2 at DH's request, and he always addressed us, as well as came over to the table more than once. The gym was great, and the sauna & steam room helped DH a lot. I love the bathrobes that come in each stateroom. Very plush & comfortable. Read more