We are two sets of male couples traveling together. while good friends for a number of years that socialize together often we have never cruised together before. Both couples have been on many cruises over the years on numerous lines and ships. some of which are no longer around. I personally have sailed on ships with uppers and lowers and baths down the hall, to Penthouse Suites and everything in between. I book based on price and destination. Sometimes I'll get a great deal on the best cabin and other times a lowly inside provides the greatest overall value. We sail once or twice a year on if we can. This was my forth time on RCCI and sadly to say I will not we booking another with them anytime soon as bad outweighs the good.

The Good;

We sailed from Bayonne, NJ. One of the nicest things is being able to drive to the ship and from out home in Philadelphia. While we don't mind flying to a ship, being able to drive in a couple of hours to board and return home is a huge plus and one of the best things about this cruise. The boarding was fast and pleasant. We arrived at the ship about 12:15 PM and were on board within 30 minutes. While the ship holds 3,400 passengers because everything is so spread out it never felt crowded, except first and last day in the Windjammer Buffet. The Main Dining Room laid out over three decks was lovely. One of the nicest of any ship I have been on. Staff were great for the most part and willing to help out as they could. We got a good price, but not as good as if we had booked earlier. I waited a few weeks before booking last spring and the price went up about 5%. Prices continued to go up as the closer we got to sailing day. We did sailing with a full ship. I think towards the end our standard inside cabin would have cost about 20% more than we paid. While not the best deal we have ever gotten on a cruise the price was good. We paid minimum rate and received a Cat. M on deck seven by the forward elevators, good location. There was a lot of different activities on the ship some something for everyone. Drinks were made properly and not overly priced. Entertainment and shows were good, not great. Ice show was different and we enjoyed it. Productions shows better than some ships I have sailed on but not remember-able. Storage space in cabin was good as were the mattress, pillows and linens. Ship was clean, and well maintained, but decor is showing it's age. Our sailing was the 10 year anniversary of the Maiden Voyage. Liked Johnny Rocket's Diner 50's style Burgers and shakes at an up-charge of $4.95. The only extra cost restaurant was Portofino, on deck five. Selection and taste was only OK. NCL, Princess and HAL all offer better. Read more