rccl-sovereign14

Note - this page contains multiple reviews.

Name: Jim and Kirsten Simenson
Email: simensonk@yahoo.com
Age: 30 and 30
Occupation: Computer Operator and Teacher
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: July 13, 2000 - July 16, 2000
Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas and Coco Cay
Cabin: 8014 N
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 100
CabinComfort: 89
FoodRoomService: 95
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 93
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 98
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue: 73
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 86
PrivateIsland: 85
GoodForFamilies: 97
LoungeService: 97
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 85
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 80
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 17 Jul 2000
Time: 18:46:49
Remote Name: cacheflow2.tampabay.rr.com
Remote User:

Comments

My husband and I just got back from our first cruise. We thought it would be very relaxing, but we
were wrong! After three days, we returned home exhausted and tired, and ready to book our next
cruise with our kids and parents as soon as possible! We had a terrific time. It was so easy to have
fun.

We arrived at the ships terminal, by car, around 10:15 A. M. Many passengers will still collecting their
baggage and going home. Before we entered the terminal, we were given tags for our suitcases and
wrote our cabin number on them. A few minutes later an employee took our suitcases and directed
us inside to check in. We tipped him $5.00.

When we got to the top of the stairs, we noticed that we were a bit early. We were a little confused
about what to do. Finally, we asked and were given 2 forms to fill out. Then we gave the forms to the
desk area attendant and she asked us for our names, a credit card, identification, and a birth
certificate or passport. (One passenger forgot his and he had to fill out a special affidavit to
continue.) She gave us a boarding brochure, Super Charge cards (to buy things on the ship) and a
key to our cabin. We then walked down a hallway and up an escalator. We were the second in line to
board the ship. We did have to wait about 50 minutes to board (around 12:20 P. M.).

Once on the ship, we were greeted by RCCL staff who directed us to our room. We were on deck 9.
The room was small, but we expected that so we settled right in. The room was a bit worn looking, but
comfortable and clean. We were disappointed that our window view was obstructed by a lifeboat. We
could see the deck and ocean but not the horizon. The bathroom was very small. Only one person at
a time. Only one person can fit in the shower. The toilets are loud and you have to pull up the knob
to flush. In the room we had ice, soda, water, glasses, shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels, and
literature about the cruise, ship, and excursions. Please note that the soda is &1.50 and the bottled
water $2.50. I packed a few cans of soda and water so we wouldn’t need to buy it. Dinner is the only
time you can have free soda.

We quickly read the excursion paper, filled it out, and put it in the shore excursion box on deck 4. All
excursions can sell out and it was a first come first serve opportunity. You can list 2nd and 3rd
choices. We signed up for the two day snorkeling tour. We received our tickets after dinner. They
were on our freshly made bed. This process was a bit confusing as we did not talk to anyone about it
and we were hoping we had done the procedure correctly. I guess we did!

In Nassau we had a short boat ride to a Rainbow Reef and snorkeled for about an hour. It isn’t the
best snorkeling in the world, but we bought some of the fish food and we did see many smaller fish.
The coral was a bit battered looking. Not a lot of color. At Coco Cay, we were given the equipment
and were aloud to snorkel in certain areas within swimming distance . We did see a sting ray,
flounder, small fish, sea grass, an airplane and boat wreak (just a small side with cannons), but very
little coral if any! If I were to go again, I would snorkel only once. Other excursions that I would have
liked were the Wave runners at Coco Cay or the Catamaran in Nassau. I would also consider renting
a moped in Nassau. You’ll see them, they are just as you walk off the boat for around $30.00 and
hour.

Nassau was okay. Lots of stores and people selling things. Some women were braiding hair; others,
weaving baskets. A few men were carving wood into faces and ashtrays; others were selling Cuban
cigars. Everyone was selling something. The horse and buggy tour looked like fun.

Coco Cay was very pretty, but busy. The lunch was good. We snorkeled, swam, floated on a mat,
walked around, and slept on a hammock under the palm trees. It is a full day at the beach. Some
passengers entered in the Olympic games. The drink of the Island is called a Coco Loco. It is very
good and fruity ($5.95 each). You do get to keep the cup.

This brings us to the liquor issue. Very expensive. All drinks automatically include a 15% tip. Most
drinks cost $4 or more. Bottled wine starts around $20.00, and then, you just put them on the ships
Super Charge card and before you know it, your bill gets pretty thick. Be cautious and maybe bring a
bottle in your suitcase to drink in the room if you must.

The food was good, a lot was even great. The service was wonderful. We ate in the Gigi Lounge and
sat at a table for 8. We met dear friends and had a terrific time at dinner. This was a highlight of the
cruise. If you don’t like your table or those you sit with, ask to be moved the next night and they will.
You can do this privately to avoid hurting feelings. We, however, had a terrific group. Do take the
initiative and introduce yourself, ask questions, and the rest will go very smoothly. The Windjammer
cafe’ has good food also, but I recommend the dining room for all dinners.

The shows are great! You should see them all! We did and I laughed harder than I have in years!
The disco is fun, kareoke can be hilarious and entertaining, and the casino is a fun place to blow
your money. There is always something to do. If you look around and feel like your the only one
awake, check all the lounges, you’ll find a party somewhere! If you like fun games, do the Quest!

Room service was disappointing. We called and it was busy for a long time. When we did get
through, we ordered 2 sandwiches and never received them so we just went to bed.

Our room was cleaned at least twice a day. Our cabin steward even folded our dirty clothes when we
changed quickly for dinner and left some on the floor. He had my formal dress pressed for me and
had it in the room waiting on formal night. He also answered many of our questions.

Sadly, it was time to pack. You will be asked to pack the last night and to place your bags outside in
the hallway, with your colored tag, around midnight. This will actually make the next morning easier
for you. Baggage claim and customs are very easy. Very little waiting, if any. They never even
questioned us or looked in our bags!

Sailing was smooth and we never felt sick. The way back was a little choppy but nothing to worry
about. We were impressed with the extremely smooth docking. They actually back the boat in! I have
trouble doing that with a car!

Overall, the trip was worth every cent. It is so nice being pampered. I do plan on cruising RCCL
again. This cruise was good for all age levels. We saw babies to great great grandparents! If you
have any questions, just e-mail me. Bon Voyage!

Name: Martha Swindelle
Email: marthaps@aol.com
Age: 41
Occupation: Realtor/Associate Broker
NumberOfCruises: 5
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 8-6-2000
Itinerary: Bahamas
Cabin: 3090
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 98
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 100
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 89
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 89
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue: 89
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 95
CruiseActivities: 95
Casino: 95
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 100
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 95
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 13 Aug 2000
Time: 12:04:28
Remote Name: spider-wo032.proxy.aol.com
Remote User:

Comments

This was our first cruise on Royal Carribean. Our criteria for choosing this cruise was we had to go
during the week and had to leave from a port close to our home, which is in Savannah, GA., Port
Canaveral is only 4 hr. drive at the most. Of course value was a great factor, our cabins were $399
per person. We have sailed on Carnival and the Disney cruise ships before. Wanted to try
something new. We were excited that this was available. Overall it was a fantastic trip. Embarkation
was smooth. Our cabin was great and in a great location. The layout of the ship was great. We
didn't get lost once. Food was good not great but dealing with that much volume it's amazing the
quality. Dining room service was excellent! Entertainment on board was good. We are musicians so
we tend to be a bit more critical. The best was the Calypso band on deck. The on board activities
were very entertaining. We didn't participate but enjoyed watching. The shows were good. The fist
night was a broadway revue which was the best. The 2nd was a 50's show, which didn't make much
sense, but the talent was good. 3rd was a comic juggler, which doesn't sound good, but was very
entertaining. Shore excursions; Nassau is Nassau the day we were there it was a holiday so most
of the shops were closed. The best buys are perfume, but be sure to check prices in the states
before making that determination. Liquor and jewelry. The on board liquor shop had excellent
buys. Note: Hold off until the last night and everything goes on sale. Visit the straw market and
barter. Be prepared to walk away. There is nothing you can't do without. We took the Yellow Bird
tour which was fantastic. It takes you to a beach to swim and has a good sight seeing tour. There is
unlimited rum punch and beer on board. Beer is pricy, 4$. A great band plays and on the way back
gets people going and dancing. This is very far from a drunken free for all, it's fun and lively and I
would suggest it for adults but kids would be bored. It can get rough on the water.

My husband did
the scuba tour, he isn't ceritified but you can get certified for one day. He's not sure if he liked it.
They instruct you and you put on gear and just jump off the back of a boat in the ocean. Not for the
faint at heart. This is an all day event so if your a couple you need to go together or split up. Our
husbands did that and the wives did the Yellow Bird. After diner take a taxi to Atlantis on Paradise
Island. There is a great Aquarium and Casino there. It's an absolutely beautiful property. The
island is great. It's about the only beach thing you get to do. The snorkeling is good, but you need
to go out almost to the life guard stand to see the good fish. If you have your own equipment bring
it it is less expensive, you are required to wear a vest. We did the wave runner tour which is really
not a tour. It is an extremely high speed tour and you are expected to keep up with the pack. You
don't see much so if your expecting to go exploring don't go. But if you expect to ride full out on a
jet ski go for it. We enjoyed it but wouldn't do it again. It's pretty expensive.

Just remember it's high
speed. If you can't keep up it's embarrasing. You don't have to have prior experience to do this. It's
very intimidating because the ocean can get rough and these things can get air bound. Day at sea
was very relaxing. Deck chairs go fast around the pool area. I found that toward the front of the
ship there were more to be found. Acitivities around the pool are fun to watch and of course the
bar service is excellent. By the way drink prices are great too. An aside; if you are a wine drinker
you can purchase a bottle the first night and they will cork it and pour it for you at diner until it's
gone. It's probably cheaper and you can have a good selection of wine to chose from. On the
whole this was a great trip for the money. There wern't a ton of drunk rowdy teenagers or adults on
the ship. There were a few small children, but well behaved, could be the time of year. Good age
group, we are in our 40's. I would go again in a heartbeat! And as I write we are considering a 7
day on Royal Carribean that leaves from San Juan. Only takes money. Bon Voyage!!!

PS: Shore excursions go fast so decide what you want and book the first opportunity you have
when you get on board.

Name: Eric and Randy Hausmann
Email: erichausmann@mindspring.com
Age: 40
Occupation: TV News Photojournalist
NumberOfCruises: 5
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 7/23/00
Itinerary: Nassau, Coco Cay
Cabin: 4567
FoodDiningRoom: 100
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 100
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 100
FoodMidnightBuffets: 95
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 100
FoodVariety: 100
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 75
GoodForHoneymoon: 100
CasinoStaff: 100
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 100
LoungeService:
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 100
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 95
Casino: 100
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 100
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 100
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 100
SpaceRatio: 100
OverallCruiseValue: 99
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 20 Aug 2000
Time: 15:31:23
Remote Name: user-38lc04p.dialup.mindspring.com
Remote User:

Comments

This was our second Royal Caribbean Cruise in the last two years. Our last cruise was on the
Majesty of the Seas. The Sovereign is a sister ship and just as beautiful. Our embarkation took
about ten minutes dispite seeing the long line. Make sure you fill out all your forms and bring
proper identification to save you time. One quick mention, don't overtip the luggage handlers if you
drive your car to the ship. All they do is take bag from your car and put in large steel cage just a
few feet away from your car. Our luggage arrived at our cabin less than an hour after we boarded.
We arrived at the ship at around 12:30pm. Many people like to board early to avoid lines and get
comfortable around the ship. You can even swim and sun on the pool deck during embarkation
process while in port. We loved the location of our cabin. Close to shopping and same deck as the
Kismet Dining Room. We also enjoy the inside cabin which keeps the cabin dark in the morning
when the sunrise can be before 6am in the summer. It really helps when you and your kids can
sleep extra! We have had these inside cabins in the past and recommend them. They are also
quite if you are in the front half of the ship and off the main hallway. The food started out great as
we remembered at the Windjammer Cafe. It's high quality and great selection. They did run out of
drinking cups, but they refilled them quickly once notified. Make sure you check both sides of the
Windjammer Cafe to see if both lines are open. People tend to think there is only crowded one line.
There may be empty lines if you check around the corners. The Kismet Dining Room was fantastic.
We all had whatever and as much we wanted. The attitude is 'no problem' if you don't like
something, just ask for something else. The kids programs are great. Our 10 and 14 year olds had
a great time. They really enjoyed the age appropriate activities. The make your own boat and race
was a highlight. Also gag-a-ball was a big hit. We enjoyed the shows in the Follies lounge. We did
see the 'El Gaucho' Cowboy show on our last cruise, but he was still great. The comedians were
very good too. Nassau was ok, we just wanted to see Atlantis. We took a cab...shared with other
people crammed in with us. Cost $4/person to Atlantis. That is a definite must see.

I recommend
renting a waverunner down the beach from Atlantis instead of Coco Cay or from the Atlantis
hawkers. We finally got them down from $60 to $40 for 30 minutes. You can do better in St.
Petersburg, Fl. Only $40 for an hour. We didn't go to shopping area. So we didn't witness any of
the stories about being bothered by vendors taking money for cheap beads. On our return trip
from Atlantis we asked for a cab and got an old limo. Our first time riding in a limo in our bathing
suits. Cost was still $4/person. Did have to get through rush hour traffic to get back to ship for
formal night. We are not quite sure why formal night is on the same day you are in Nassau till 3am.
Why not have it on the day you go to Coco Cay? Then you would not be rushed to miss this nice
evening. We had main seating for dinner and that made it rushed for us. One of us showered in
the gym and three rushed through the cabin shower. Got to dinner 30 minutes late. Of course it
was not a problem for the great dining room staff.

Coco Cay was great. You can be as busy or lazy
as you want. Snorkel early because lots of people kick up a lot of sand and visability gets poor by
afternoon. Also watch out for jelly-fish. Saw one child get stung. Cabin was fine for the four of us.
Kids decided to sleep on bottom. That made it fun to climb up. We were only in cabin to sleep, so
room size really not a problem. Cabin steward was nice and efficient. Always plenty of chocolate to
be found in the evening on your pillow or on his cart. Day at sea was a bit rainny, but the ship's spa
was nice. Walking deck is really perfect. You can stay in the shade and enjoy the view and the
breeze. Overall, another great cruise that we were sad to see end. Next time we will take the seven
day again. p.s. On a disturbing note. After speaking with our waiter at length, he told us that a
disturbing number of people are not tipping. I hope they realize that these hard working folks live
off the tips they earn. They work 80-90 hours a week trying to save money for their families. The
cruise line pays them nothing; just room and board. They come from countries where the
economies are difficult. Please tip for good service.

Name: Nancy Reamsma
Email: bignursenanc@yahoo.com
Age: 39
Occupation: RN
NumberOfCruises: 9
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 7-30-00
Itinerary: Bahamas 4 night
Cabin: 3532
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: 80
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 95
DiningRoomService: 99
CabinQuietness: 89
FoodMidnightBuffets: 80
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 70
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 70
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 50
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 99
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff: 70
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess: 85
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 80
OverallPortsofCall: 88
BeautySalon: 70
EntertainmentPoolside: 75
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities: 90
ShipCleanliness: 99
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs: 85
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 99
ShopsOnBoard: 95
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 21 Aug 2000
Time: 22:55:53
Remote Name: 63.102.219.46
Remote User:

Comments

Having been on several cruises and even to the Bahamas on 4 other occasions, My family was a
little worried that the ports of call would be boring. We chose to drive to Florida. I cannot comment
on the air-sea package. If you choose to drive, it is very simple! Just go to maps.com and get your
driving directions then start your trip! The parking for the guest is great and very convenient. The
parking fees were $28 for 4 nights. I must say that we had only driven once before and this
experience was great compared to the last. Since we had driven we didn't even check our luggage
this time. We did ask at the check-in if we had to check in the luggage and they told us, only if you
really want too. Seeing that we did not bring a ton of luggage, we carried ALL of the luggage on
board.

Checking in was absolutely the most organized experience we have ever encountered. The lines
were fast and within just 5 min. we were ready to get on the ship! The staff were very friendly upon
arrival and very helpful! Our 2 girls really felt welcomed and were told immediately of the activities
for the teenagers! The only thing they didn't like was the age seperation of the teen events. If you
have a child 13-17 then there are activities for that age group, but if your other child is 18 then the
17 can't attend those activities. This put a damper on many of the planned acitivities for the 2 girls.
For adults this cruise was pretty much the same as any other cruise ship.

The dining room experience was wonderful! We always attended Dinner. On most of our other
cruises, we opted out many nights because we were just too tired or just didn't want to have to wait
for 2 hours on our meal. These meals were a pleasure. Our table was 127 and our waiter was Kias
and our head waiter was Franklin. I can tell you out of 9 other cruises, this food and service was
heads above the rest. The entertainment in the dining room was a little bit to be desired, but if you
came for the food instead of the entertainment, then you will be coming to the right place! The food
was mouth watering. The midnight buffets were boring and therefore we only went to 2 of those.
Late seating is great because you can stay in port longer and don't have to hurry and get ready
and miss your time off the ship.

The itenary was Ok. We had researched things to do. We had been to Gilligan's Island before,
(where the dolphins are) and it is ok, but if you have been to Florida then it is pretty much the
same. The straw markets were good. The t-shirt factory that is recommended by the ship had some
good prices on the silver.

After we did our straw market ritual, then we had planned ahead and rented a room at the Atlantis
Hotel on Paridise Island. The cheapest room is all you need, which is about $175.00 US. The
reason I say this is all you need, is because to use their facility and water parks, then you have to
be a guest, because they check ID by your room card. Don't carry any towels as there are plenty at
every corner you turn. There were so many pools that covers acres and acres that you would have
to stay a week to enjoy everything they have. The water park area has 5 giant water slides, that
end up in the pool of sharks. The slides and tunnels end with the sharks in a natural aquarium over
your and head and the sight is breath taking! Then if you don't have enough to do and you feel
like a little more excitement the go to their private beach and parasail, snorkel, jet-ski, sail-boat,
and more! Remember the parasailing is cheaper by about $20 per person here than at the private
island of Coco Cay. A 2 person parasail is $90 and last 17min.

A taxi to paridise island is $20 one way! But, this trip will be the high light of everyone elses day.
We heard a lot of complaints about how bad and dirty Nassau was, but we had a wonderful trip
because we had planned ahead and was rewarded with a fantastic place to go and we will be back!
By the way, the ship offers The Club Med for $55 per person, but this hotel only has a pool. The
way we did it, we ended up saving money!

Coco Cay was a bust. The weather was bad all day, but we had purchased the mats and the
snorkel tour, so went ashore. The nice thing that RCCL did for any passenger that went ashore
was that they refunded our money for the shore excursions that day. No other cruise line had ever
done this for us before!

Well, the last day was hot, but great. We relaxed by the pool and generally were worthless! The
one thing that really impressed every passenger aboard was that we had a lady get very sick on
the ship and she had to be airlifted off the ship. This was done with professionalism and very
promptly. She was off the ship within 1 hour. The Coast Guard came out with the med-vac
helicopter and she and her husband were safely airlifted off the ship with all the passengers
cheering and applauding thier help.

The last morning went without a hitch. Of course you have to be out of your room by 8, but this is
normal on all ships, so that was not a problem. I would really have loved to have hidden in a closet
somewhere and went again the next day! It was wonderful, and if you are planning on going, then
get ready for a great time!! Remember the Atlantis! This will make your trip perfect!

Name: Nath
Email: nlaroche@iq.ca
Age: 29
Occupation: Adm. Asst
NumberOfCruises: 4
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: Aug 20, 2000
Itinerary: 4-day Bahamas
Cabin: #4538 - cat. G Main Deck
FoodDiningRoom: 80
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 92
FoodRoomService: 50
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 93
CabinQuietness: 60
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 78
FoodVariety: 60
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue: 78
GoodForHoneymoon: 80
CasinoStaff: 80
PrivateIsland: 75
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 85
GoodForSeniors: 85
BeautySalonStaff: 90
EntertainmentLounges: 95
WheelchairAccess: 80
ExerciseFacilities: 70
EntertShowLounge: 75
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon: 85
EntertainmentPoolside: 70
CruiseActivities: 75
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 80
EmbarkDisembark: 80
DiscoNightclubs: 80
DeckSpace: 80
Stabilization: 80
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 80
OverallCruiseValue: 80
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 30 Aug 2000
Time: 15:29:38
Remote Name: 207.35.69.3
Remote User:

Comments

4-day Bahamas / Aug 20, 2000 / From Port Canaveral, FL.

This was my cruise #4 but first time ever with RCI. I am an administrative assistant (29-married) and
was travelling with my cousin (23-married). We really wanted to give a try with RCI, as every people
was telling us how RCI was upscale compared to NCL and CCL.

My past cruise experience: Destiny - July 2000 Fantasy - Nov. 1999 Fascination - Jan. 1999

We booked our cruise a month prior to sailing date with our Sears Travel Agent. I was monitoring
the rates thru the Cruisematch2000.com (RCCL internet for TA-which I have access). We got a
deal at $323,75 USD per person with port charges for a run-of-the-ship rate. We could end up with
no higher then cat. F (outside) or the least cat. Q (inside) on whatever RCI will assigned us at
embarkation or 7-10 days before sailing date. About a week before sailing, our TA called and told
us that we were assigned with a late seating (as requested) and in a cat. G (outside stateroom) on
main deck, cabin #4538. WOW, could not believe it, what a wonderful start!

ORLANDO

We arrived a day earlier to avoid any flight delays or tropical storm effects. We had reserved an
Avis rental car at the Orlando airport. Everything was ready and we picked up our convertible
Chrysler Seabring with no delays and hit the road for Cocoa Beach which is about 5-10 mins from
Port Canaveral.

We had made reservation at the Best Western Ocean Inn on North Atlantic Rd. The place is nice
with a large pool and the beach is only ½ block from there. Lots of people and fun on the Beach.
Nice boardwalk too. The in town Surf shop was open 24 hrs for all the sun bathing needs. We did
some shopping.

DAY ONE - PORT CANAVERAL DEPARTURE

We came by car (our rental from the Orlando airport) and dropped off our luggage at the pier and
went back to Cape Canaveral at the Radisson Hotel to drop off our rental car (that is very easy -
only Avis has that pick/drop convenience) . The Avis shuttle took us back to the pier and got in at
around 12H30. We were the next to process for checking-in, nobody in line. As we were walking
thru the lane, two or three times one of their agent was asking if all of our paperwork was done and
filled-in properly. Got a the counter, took 10 minutes to register (as we are Canadian citizen, they
were asking for a green card, do not know what they were talking about, we only had our passport
with us) finally everything was OK, got my Super Charge Account opened with my Amex credit card.
They told us that only one cabin key is given and the other one should be in our stateroom.

We proceed to board the Sovereign. Took our embarkation picture just before the gangway, then
the photograph said "Hé Frenchies" because of our French Canadian accent that he recognized,
he became our fried Dean for the next four days. He was from New Zealand and a pretty nice
gentleman (if you ever happen to see or meet him at the Photo-Shop, tell him that the Frenchies
says HI!)

Your first look is the Centrum. Yes it is nice. There was a guy playing piano, very calm, smooth and
relax atmosphere. I loved the light colours but it is not as much impressive as what we had on the
Carnival Destiny.

We when then to our stateroom. VERY SMALL (IMO), that was my first impression. We manage it
though and it worked out well for two girls for only 4 days. You are only there to shower and sleep,
not a big issue. The room was not completely ready, we had to wait for Erik our steward to vacuum
the carpet. I noticed that there were no bathrobes in the cabin, I asked the steward and he
recommended to make a request at the pursers. We left our hand bags and went up to the
Windjammer Café for lunch. After lunch, I went at the Purser for my bathrobe and was told that
those were only for past guest or suites passenger, but the next morning, my room steward had
found one just for me (at the end of the cruise I putted and extra 10$ in his tip envelop just for
that).

First disappointment, the embarkation lunch was serving only Hot-Dogs, Hamburgers, Pizza or
Salad and Fruits. Nothing else but usual fast food and their lemonade, ice tea and cold water. As
you enter the Café, they are welcoming you with a welcome aboard drink (like if it is free) and ask
you right away for your blue card to charge it. I did not like it, it looks like a scam.

The service in the Windjammer was good though. We went on deck 3 to put a cash deposit of $150
on my cruise mate Super Charge Account. We also filled-in the explorations forms for the shore
excursions and dropped them in the box at the Purser's corner. We explored the ship and end-up
at the pool, by the time we sat down and looked at our watches, it was the time for the safety drill
4H30. Went back to our room to get our life jackets and met on deck to our muster station. It took
about 20mins to get everything organized as RCI take the presence of every passenger.

And it was 5PM for sailing time. All the cruise ships in Port Canaveral leaves at 5, so the Carnival
Fantasy was first out, then the Disney Wonder and us on the Sovereign.

The sail away party was fun. Their line "Electric Dance" and entertainment was getting almost
everyone on deck involved. After the party, the Calypso Band was playing Island music. Went for a
nap and got ready for dinner. We were assigned at a certain table, when we came in the Gigi
Dinning room and looked at the people seating at our table, we turned around and asked for
another table. They have spare tables for those request and we end up at a table of 8 with 3 other
couples. We were two single girls wearing cocktail dresses explaining that our husbands were left
home for a celebration of our new marital status (I just got married on July 1st, 2000) and the other
married young ladies did not look at us like preys anymore.

Our waiter was Walter, very nice, he meets every single needs we had, he was very efficient. The
assistant -waiter was Susan also very helpful. The Head-Waiter was Mario, called Super Mario -
Vroom Vroom Badaboum. He was so funny. He did entertained us every nights of the cruise.

Second disappointment, not much variety on the menu. I had steak (NY Strip Sirloin) and three
times out of 4 dinner. The soup was just lukewarm. The appetizer portion were small, as well as the
entrees. We manage to order two appetizers each and two entrees and that was fine to keep us
full. We were on late seating and I found out that the service was a little slow there. We never got
off dinner before 11PM, except on the Midnight Gala Buffet evening (10H30).

Around 11PM, we went at Disco Man Lounge for the Single party for everyone who is single, wish
to be or want to be single (just to look, it was so funny). After, they had music of the 70's with their
Village People impersonators. Lots of fun and new dances to learn.

DAY TWO - NASSAU

While we were eating breakfast in the Windjammer, the ship was pulling in the Nassau harbour at
around 10H30 am. The breakfast was again limited, scramble eggs, prepared omelettes, bacon,
sausages, hash brown and ham (no pancakes, french toast or even toast was served). The usual
danish, cereals and fruits were available.

The staff was telling the passenger that we were very fortunate with the hot and sunny weather in
Nassau since, they did not have sunshine while the ship was in Nassau since last May.

By the time they moored the Sovereign, we did got off and wave for a taxi hitting the wonderful
Atlantis Resort in Paradise Island. (It was my second time in Nassau, as on my last cruise on the
Fantasy we did stop there). It was 4$ each and took us in 5 min. to the Atlantis. We visited the
inside of the resort and did successfully slip through without paying the 25$ US per person to
access their lagoon. We were there just for an hour or so to visit and wanted to take some good
pics.

At around 12H15, we went back to the ship and had lunch in the Windjammer. Again same
Hot-Dogs, Hamburgers, Pizza, salad and one more variety a stew, (not very tasty). We were
booked for the Yellowbird Party boat tour and had to be on the Pier at 1PM. This tour was
fantastic. The ride is very smooth, taking you to an exotic island (facing Cable Beach in Nassau) to
the sound of their Calypso Band playing smooth island music, very relaxing with unlimited rhum
punch. Onboard, some local are selling pareos, tank tops or t-shirts. At the beach, you have more
than an hour and a half to enjoy swimming, sunbathing or snorkelling (5$ for gear). On departure,
it turns to be a real party. With again, unlimited rhum punch and more entertained music, they do
limbo contest all the way back to the cruise ship terminal. They also sell you the picture they took
at the boarding of the Yellowbird tour for 6$ or 2 for 10$.

We went at the pool and relaxed until nap before dinner. It was formal night so we went to the
Salon for a blow-dry (27$) and dressed-up for the Captain Cocktail in the Folies Lounge. Another
big disappointment there, I took about 20 minutes to have some hors d'eouvre (canapés) and had
only two each. They had an open bar with limited variety of drinks too.

At dinner, no lobster, just shrimps (but very tinny shrimps) I had the Filet Mignon and another
entrees of Duck. Was good but small portions again. We did not had dessert because we were
rushing to go watch the "Not so newlywed game show" (was at 10H15). Was hilarious. We've seen
it at every cruise we did and every time we enjoy it as the first one. We were so tired (I think the
unlimited rhum punch in the afternoon was too strong) we went to bed early. We wanted to attend
the Deck Party but did make it.

DAY THREE - COCOCAY, BAHAMAS

The scenery is awesome, that is the only thing. They only allow you to get off with one small towel
each (at least Carnival has their large blue beach towels, especially for shore excursions) and they
can sell you a spring water bottle for $2.95.

The first beach was so crowded when we got off the tender (around 10H45), we kept going and
walked to the second beach. There was less people and had a lounge chair. We had rented the
beach map for 8$ and got in the water when we found out that the bottom was very rocky. We knew
it from past passenger who gave us that advice. And nevertheless lots of Jelly fish. WARK!!!! I
could not swim, I was afraid that one stick on me. We stayed at the beach under the hot sunrays
until lunch. They are well organized for the food on the island. We had ribs, beside their usual
hot-dogs, hamburgers and pizza. The ribs were quite good (for those who have tasted the Carnival
one's, do not be disappointed). They also offer their local drink: the Coco Loco, very good. I had a
couple of them through the week. You can have it anywhere on one of the bar of the ship. We went
back on ship at around 3PM. From 5 to 7PM in the Viking Crown Lounge, they had the Margarita
Madness. I did not drink any of the Margarita's but I certainly had their good nachos and salsa.

Tonight was the Rock'n'Roll night. Our showtime for late seating was before dinner (7H15 PM). The
show was good, better than on Carnival (after 3 cruises on Carnival in two years, I've seen always
the same shows every cruise), IMO it was new and different from what I've seen. Not very long
though, at 7H50 it was over. For dinner, steak again. We went to the Quest who took place in the
Disco man Lounge at 10H30. You have to attend this one. It is the highlight of the hole cruise. So
hilarious. Could not imagine how people get so involved in that scavenger adventure. We stayed in
the disco for the dance music. The only thing is their band "Splash" plays and sings the same thing
every night. They had rock'n'roll music during the band was having a break.

We tried to go to the midnight Gala buffet, we could only take pictures, the lines were so long to get
there and I heard that tables were hard to find.

DAY FOUR - DAY AT SEA

Went to the dinning room for breakfast. More variety there, egg benedict, blueberry pancakes,
french toast and usual eggs prepared to your taste.

Hot, Hot, Hot and HOOOOOT! 95°, The pool area was crowded and lots of people were in the pool.
The Sovereign of the Seas pool is huge. That is a plus. It is deep also. At 11AM, they were calling
people to get some game pools on. It lasted about 20 min. IMO, too short to get everyone involved.

We stayed there from 10H30 Am till 4PM. At lunch we went in the dinning room and I had a pasta
(spaghetti bolognese) was standard. They had choice (in the dinning room) of Monte Cristo
sandwich, hamburger, pasta or stew.

Farewell dinner. I had turkey that night. We tended out envelopes to the Waiter, assistant-waiter
and Head waiter, as well as the room steward. We organized to meet every one (dinner mates) in
the disco at around 11H30 after setting up our Super Charge account and filling our suitcases.

We had fun that night all together and dance until 2AM. We had to get up early the next morning
for debarkation as we are Canadian and we had to go to the Customs Officers to claim our
passports.

DEBARKATION

We were in the Finian Lounge at 7H20AM to proceed the customs and could only see an officer
around 8H00. We had breakfast in the Windjammer and went downstairs in the Finian Lounge to
wait for our colour tag to be called. We had booked the Kennedy Space Centre tour (55$, for a VIP
tour and does not worth it at all) if you take this tour you are one of the first off the ship. We were
off at around 8H45. Claimed our luggage, passed the customs and boarded the bus for a ride of
10 mins. to the Kennedy Space Centre. There is not enough time (until 12H45) to visit. We only
saw ¼ of it. The only good side, is they take care of your luggage, you do not have to worry about
it until they get you off at the Airport. We were at the Airport around 1H45 and our flight was
leaving at 4PM.

Overall, we enjoyed the cruise because we were on a ship, away from home and work, under the
sun. The weather was perfect and the cruise was a real deal and we could not say no, we wanted
to try RCCL. I found that that food variety, entertainment (fun ship atmosphere), stateroom sizes
was better with Carnival. I would probably want to try one of the RCCL mega-ship liner (Explorer or
Voyager) to compare on a future cruise, but with the Sovereign, I was not impressed at all. Maybe
our expectations were too high.

Carnival is still my favourite cruise line. It is only my personal opinion and there is all kinds of cruise
ships for all kinds of people.

We did not feel any motion except on the last evening, where Hurricane Debby was approaching
the Florida coast on the way back.

I did kept all of the Daily Cruise Compass (daily activities planner), so if anyone would like to get
copies of it, do not hesitate to contact me, I can fax or mail them for free. I will be pleased to help if
anyone need more information too.

Nathalie Laroche, From Montreal, Quebec/Canada :-)

nlaroche@iq.ca

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