We had sailed twice on Holland America (western Caribbean and Alaska) and enjoyed it a lot. We are in our late 50s and took our 9-year old grandson with us on this trip. So we felt we needed a cruise that might have more for kids. In doing our research we felt Royal Caribbean was the best answer for what we wanted (relaxing with things to do if we chose to) and what he wanted (hang with other kids, play sports). Freedom of the Seas provided that to us.
The ship was in good shape. The food was very good. The staff friendly enough. We ate 1 night in the dining room, 2 nights in Chops, 1 in Portofino, and the rest at Windjammer. Everything - stateroom, deck furniture, food, specialty restaurants, service, etc. was a step below Holland America but it was fine.
There were a few things we didn't like. The Adventure Ocean program for the kids was not as good as we had hoped, particularly on days we were in port. The staff (some great, some would rather be elsewhere and let you know it) was not as fun for the kids to be around as we would expect. For the most part, they were glorified baby sitters, which is not what a 9-year old is looking for. While in port at Labbadee,we had our grandson spend the morning with Adventure Ocean. The few kids there did virtually nothing the entire morning. They were not allowed to go swimming although they were right on the beach. They were kept in 1 location and the kids were very bored.
Cabin 7372 was too small for 3 people. We were told it was the bigger of the verandah rooms but it was very small. The bathroom was tiny. The deck furniture on the verandah was ok but minimalist.