This was our first RCCL cruise. We've taken 9 cruises on Carnival. We moved away from Carnival because they allow smoking in cabins (can you say fire hazard? not to mention subjecting others to more second hand smoke). RCCL is pretty much a non-smoking ship. There are a few designated areas for smoking, but as long as you know where they are and stay away, you aren't subjected to it. Biggest plus, there is no smoke in the cabin corridors! That was wonderful!

The Freedom (launched in 2006) is larger than the largest Carnival ship (the Dream) and it is absolutely beautiful! The promenade was 5 levels like a huge mall, with restaurants and shops and inside cabins with full windows looking down into it; the weather cooperated for the mostpart =)

Pros - the ship, they didn't skimp on the furnishings; the non-smoking policy; the cleaniness everywhere (we sailed on the Dream on it's first voyage out of Canaveral and it already had stains on the carpets, seating, etc); the staff is courteous and friendly. Read more