CruiseOpinion.com Ship Reviews

Note - this page contains multiple reviews.

Name: theresa priddy
Email: t-priddy@usa.net
Age: 37
Occupation: Secretary
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 05/03/99
Itinerary: Nassau, Coco Cay, & Key West
FoodDiningRoom: 100
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 99
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 99
CabinAmenities: 99
FoodLidoDeck: 99
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 99
ShoreExcVariety: 99
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 90
GoodForHoneymoon: 99
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 99
LoungeService:
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge:
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 95
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino:
AirSeaProgram: 95
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 19 May 1999
Time: 07:59:52
Remote Name: 199.130.2.61
Remote User:

Comments

My husband and I took this cruise to celebrated our 20th aniversary. It was our first cruise. It was great! We decided
since this was our first cruise that we would let the cruise line book everything. Took the air/sea package had no
problem with it. We sat together all the way from Nashville, Tn. to Miami, Fla., even change planes. Checked our
luggage in Nashville did not see it until 4:30 that afternoon on the ship. Checked in at the airport in Miami very short
line no checking in at the terminal at port where there was a long line. Ship very large and very beautiful. Found a
small deck and used it every night. Not used very much. She was very clean and polished. A lot of brass. Floors
clean and surprisingly carpet did not show signs of wear. Had been refurbished in 1996. Seemed to have enough
deck space. We were in port everyday. No day at sea. Ports of call were interesting. Nassau was okay. Took the
Nassau and Crystal Cay tours. Interesting but would not take them again. Straw Market was something to see but
don't pick up anything or they will expect you to buy it. Shops were better at letting you look. Coco Cay was
absolutely the best. Water was clear and warm. Great for snorkeling. Beautiful weather to do outdoor sports. Had a
great time. Key West was great, very humid and did not have enough time to see all of it. Even though it is small
there is alot to see. Over all this was a wonderful cruise, great for anyone. Service was very good. Food very good.
Had no problem with staff begging for good ratings and tips. Staff was very attentive. We give it two thumbs up.


Name: Charlotte
Email: cfarr@flash.net
Age: 46
Occupation: Administrative Assistant
NumberOfCruises: 4
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 5-21-99
Itinerary: Nassau - Co Co Cay
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 80
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 80
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 80
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 87
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 80
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 99
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService:
TenderService: 97
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff: 80
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 85
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon: 80
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 87
EmbarkDisembark: 85
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 87
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 87
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 30 May 1999
Time: 23:52:50
Remote Name: p51.amax21.dialup.hou1.flash.net
Remote User:

Comments

We flew out of Houston to Miami on the 745: am flight. It was uneventful.

We planned this cruise for our 24th anniversary and I booked a confirmed rate on the cheapest inside cabin. When
we boarded they didn't have our Sail Away Cards but gave us the key. When we opened the door we realized that
the room was occupied. We went back to the table where we got the key and he took us to the Purser's Desk and
we had been upgraded to an outside partially obstructed view cabin. This was a great start to our cruise. We had
carried on our luggage so we quickly unpacked and went off to lunch. Lunch was in the Kismet dining room and it
was a very nice buffet. After lunch we just explored the ship and waited to have the life boat drill. It was very
organized and efficient, much more so than when we were on the Sensation in November. We sailed about 5:00 pm
with no noticable fanfare.

Friday night we ate our first dinner in the dining room and we met our tablemates who were all very nice and we
enjoyed our meals with them throughout the trip. We attended the show on Friday night which was a singer and a
comedian. The singer was alright but I guess we weren't in the right mood and left for awhile. We came back later for
the comedian and he was pretty funny.

The next morning we were in Nassau at 8:00 am. We went to the dining room for breakfast, which we did the entire
trip. This is the first time we ate all of our meals in the dining room. We then headed off the ship for some power
shopping. As usual, Solomon's Mine (which use to be Little Switzerland) did not dissappoint. I bought a piece of
Kosta Boda glassware that I collect and I also bought a Tissot sports watch. We came back to the ship for lunch and
went out to finish our shopping. After that I came back and laid out by the pool while my husband went sight seeing.

When I came back from the pool around 5:00 pm I walked into the bathroom and noticed that it was flooded. I called
the Pursur's Desk and they said they would send someone right away. Well my idea of right away and there's is not
the same. I had an appointment to have my hair done at 6:30 and wanted to shower before I went and I got tired of
waiting so I went ahead and showered. A plumber finally came while I was in the shower, of course. My husband
ended up cleaning the floor because the plumber said he couldn't do it and we couldn't get the cabin steward. It was
rather frustrating but we didn't let it bother us too much. Anyway, we made it to dinner which was excellent. We left
the ship again after dinner and went to the Atlantis Resort to go to the casino. The cab driver made us wait for more
people in the cab and we got the Atlantis just as the shops were closing so I couldn't get a t-shirt. I was pissed about
that. The resort is really beautiful. We dumped our alloted amount into the slot machines. My husband went to cash
out and I stayed at the machine because I had ordered a drink. There was a little man next to me who was doing
alright. All of the sudden he started putting quarters in my machine and telling me to keep playing. I actually started
winning and ended up with about $45 or $50. I thought it would be rude to cash out while he was still sitting there so
I kept playing. I ended up with about $10 by the time he left and I cashed out. It was such a nice thing for him to do
because he didn't know me from Adam. We got back to the ship about 1:30 and we sailed at 3:00 am. The Disney
Magic was in port while we were there. What a beautiful ship.

Sunday we were at Co Co Cay. We were very impressed with this island. We have been to NCL's island and this one
was so much better. Although it was crowed,we were still able to get chairs. We rented floats and my husband went
snorkling. He said it was much better than when we were in Cosumel. The lunch was very good and the lines weren't
too long since they were serving out of two cafes. They had vendors on the island so we bought t-shirts. The water
was warm and beautiful. There was alot of seeweed floating around by the beach, but if you went out a little further it
wasn't bad. All in all we had a great day on the island.

Sunday night we went to the Rock and Roll review. It was cute. Apparently this was a new show that was having its
first run that night. We walked around the ship taking pictures and retired early to finish packing.

Debarkation was pretty smooth. We ended up leaving before they called our color. We caught a cab back to the
airport.

This was really a very nice short trip. The ship was fine for a 3 day cruise but I wouldn't want to do it for a 7 day. We
missed not having a safe in the cabin. The food was very good and the dining room service was the best we have
had. This was the first time we ever had a head waiter who acutally did something other than come by the table on
the last night. The ship is showing some wear and tear but it is still a nice ship. We really like Nassau and find the
people there very friendly. We hope to do a 7 day cruise on one of RCI's newer ships in the future.

Thanks for reading this review.

 


Name: Kyle Woolsey
Email: kyle_woolsey@gsdm.com
Age: 26
Occupation: Advertising
NumberOfCruises: 0
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: May 31, 1999
Itinerary: 4 Nights - Nassau, CocoCay, Key West
FoodDiningRoom: 83
CruiseDirector: 95
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 86
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 87
FoodLidoDeck: 79
DiningRoomService: 84
CabinQuietness: 50
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 85
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 80
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 78
GoodForHoneymoon: 80
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 88
GoodForFamilies: 70
LoungeService:
TenderService: 89
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 88
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 94
OverallPortsofCall: 85
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino: 88
AirSeaProgram: 88
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 82
EmbarkDisembark: 85
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 89
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 83
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 07 Jun 1999
Time: 13:37:20
Remote Name: external.gsdm.com
Remote User:

Comments

This was our honeymoon cruise so we booked a suite which was the second largest room available on the
ship. It was quite sizeable and featured four large windows with a great view, living room, a real bathroom,
and more closets than we could fill. The room was very clean, however the carpets as well as the
bathroom tub and countertops did show the ship's 11 years of age. The biggest dissappointment in the
cabin was that it was directly under the Windjammer Cafe, which happened to be under renovation at the
time of our cruise. The noise was unbearable and there were two pipe leaks onto our bed as a result of
the construction. The smell from the leak was very bad and lingered for hours. Calls to the Purser's Desk
fixed the leaks but the noise did not stop. Needless to say the cabin proved to be less than ideal for our
honeymoon.

Dinners in the Kismet dining room were very good, and the service was top rate. The waitstaff even sang
and danced on certain nights. Additionally they served the best iced tea I've ever had, and I'm from Texas
- land of iced tea. We also went to a lunch buffet on the sports deck that was less enjoyable, the food
warmers were over-cooking everything. Room service breakfasts were adequate and ontime. About like
what any hotel would do.

Entertainment on board was also very well done. I felt like I was in Vegas. Paul, the cruise director was
also excellent, and made sure everyone was involved in the on-board festivities.

The ports of call were all very enjoyable, with Key West being the surprise highlight, a very quaint yet lively
town filled with history. I wished we could have stayed there longer than just the day.

Overall, we enjoyed our cruise, but really were dissappointed in what we had to tolerate in our cabin. Next
time we'll look for a newer ship.


Name: Tom Dillon
Email: tdillon@altinet.net
Age: 56
Occupation: Consultant
NumberOfCruises: 6
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: June 11, 1999
Itinerary: Miami-Nassau-Private Island-Miami
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 95
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService: 75
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: na
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 75
FoodMidnightBuffets: na
CabinSteward: 80
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 85
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 96
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 80
BeautySalonStaff: 90
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon: 90
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities:
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: na
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 14 Jun 1999
Time: 21:38:35
Remote Name: altinet335.altinet.net
Remote User:

Comments

After 12 cruises between us, this was our first attempt at a short, 3-ay cruise. We'd sailed previously on
the Norway (x2), Dreamward, Splendour, Graudeur, Legend, and Sun Princess. Overall, we enjoyed this
'long weekend' on the Sovereign as much as any of our other cruises. In its own way, it was wonderful!
Obviously, most any cruise is better than no cruise, but we had a really teriffic time! Embarkation was a
snap, since RCI has set up a processing booth at the Miami airport. When we reached the pier, all we had
to do was board the ship and pick up our room key and 'sign and charge' card from a table once we
reached our assigned deck. What an easy process! Hope the other lines will learn from this. This cruise
was our first attempt at an inside cabin, having been spoiled by balcony staterooms on our previous
cruises. To our delight, it wasn't bad at all, even with RCI's small cabins. It mattered not. We had virtually
NO room the first night, with our bed made up as a Queen. The second and third nights, we asked our
room steward to keep the beds separate, and we had plenty of room. Really! I even had a suitcase full of
scuba equipment, and everything fit under the beds very well.

The Windjammer Cafe (the only alternative dining option other than room service) had been undergoing
renovation since May, but it opened up for breakfast on Saturday morning. The food was barely warm, but
I am confident that it will improve after another cruise or so.....they just have to get used to serving again.
The dining room food was excellent. I particularly enjoyed the prime rib, the salmon, the shrimp scampi,
and the chocolate desserts. The bread, as usual on RCI, was outstanding. We were fortunate to have the
best waiter (Juan Fernandes, from Argentina) that we've ever experienced anywhere! He was truly
outstanding, as his prior experience was in a star hotel. Wonderful waiter with a wonderful sense of humor!
We only used room service once, and it was just OK.

The ship is definitely not new, and there are many places where the carpet has burn marks on it. So what
If we wanted to sail on a brand-new ship, we would have. I don't think there was one thing wrong with the
condition of the public areas of the ship. We enjoyed it all.

The private island is wonderful, and we've been on Labadee, Princes Cay, and Great Stirrup Cay. The
only thing that went wrong there was that the tide went out, and the mud flats smelled like mud flats. That's
OK, too.....that's what they're supposed to smell like! The island meal (cheeseburgers [in Paradise], BBQ
chicken and BBQ ribs) was very good. Nice experience.

The entertainment on the ship was very good. The Wave Revue singers and dancers were excellent
dancers, and their singing was very good. They featured 'El Gaucho' again, but we didn't wait up to see
him again. The comedian on the last night was very funny.

Overall, we had a great time, and would do it again in a heartbeat! RCI's service staff is a 'class act,' and
we'll continue to sail with them.


Name: Doug Neiger
Email: doug.neiger@mail.sprint.com
Age: 34
Occupation: Finance Manager
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 6/28/99 - 7/2/99
Itinerary: Nassau - Coco Cay - Key West
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 99
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 85
FoodMidnightBuffets: 95
CabinSteward: 100
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon: 100
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 95
TenderService:
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 80
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 06 Jul 1999
Time: 13:36:05
Remote Name: daecfp01.sprint.com
Remote User:

Comments

My wife and I celebrated our 10th anniversary on this cruise. Overall the cruise was wonderful and we can't wait to go on our
second, but I wanted to share some things to watch out for, and to tell you what we would do differently if we had the
chance.

First off we went with friends of ours who were also celebrating their 10th, and as such we asked for a table for 4. When we
got there we were put at a table of 7 with a family of 3. This was no big deal for us, but I'm sure they felt left out of our
conversations. *When you get on the boat, go directly to the outside of the dining hall and there will be a layout of where
you will be seated. If you don't like where you're at you can tip them and they will find a better table. Once your at your first
meal, it's too late. There were no empty tables to move us to, it would also be embarassing to get up and move and leave
the other family there.

The meals were incredible and the service was outstanding. Since it was our first cruise we didn't realize you could order
more than one thing. The waiter would probably enjoy bring you extra (because they can expect a better tip).

The other major thing I want to talk about is the excursions. I looked out here before we left and didn't get much feedback.

Nassau - We took the Yellowbird boat tour. The trip to paradise Island was beautiful. You sail around this island (right next
to Nassau) and get a good look at Club Med which owns most of this island. We then spent about an hour and a quarter on
the beach. We could have rented Jet Ski's or rode on the banana boat or even para sailed but all of these required cash,
and a lot of it.

The Jet-Ski's were approx $45 for 15 minutes. The banana boat ride was $8 but they hauled 5-6 people and not for more
than 5-10 minutes.

I would reccomend taking one of the excursion boats over to paradise (I beleive the snorkeling and the pirates boat both
come here as well)

On the other hand it is just another beach and if your not snorkeling ( which I would do at Coco Cay) save your money.

If I had to do it again I would rent mopeds and see the other side of the island for 4 hours or so.

Coco Cay - We went snorkeling and I would reccomend this for anyone. Keep in mind that you and 2,000 of your closest
friends will all be snorkeling in the same area. Take your time there is an unlimited supply of equipment. When you get to
the island walk around and find some empty hammocks for a while. We immediately wanted to snorkel and we couldn't
even find a lounge chair to put our stuff on.

Accross the island there were about 2oo chairs and about 20 people. (live and learn I guess). You cannot snorkel over here
however.

If I had to do it again I would do the same activity (snorkel) I would just take my time doing it. I snorkeled for about an hour
and that's about all I wanted to see. I wish I had spent more time laying on the beach/hammock and snorkeled later in the
afternoon when the place thinned out.

Key West - We did not do an excursion and instead rented Mopeds. We rode all the way around the island and found it
difficult to find a quiet place. We paid $20 for 4 hours for a single moped. The double bikes were $40 so what's the dif? We
rented 4 bikes and paid $20 bucks each. This was not like Nassau where you could negotiate a price, you're back in the
good ole USA. Also, unlike Nassau, you must bring a drivers lisence.

Overview of excursions - Pick one in Nassau that will take you over to paradise Island (I think most of the excursion boats
do). Do snorkeling in Coco Cay, but do it later in the day when it's not so crowded. Key West try mopeds (don't worry they
won't run out!) There are millions of them. If you like history then take one of the tourist trains but I'm not into that stuff.

Advice for first time cruisers:

See all of the shows on the boat (even if the sound lame!). I'm a typical conservative finance guy and loved them all.

Drink Pina Collada's (drink one for me). Up until 1 week ago I thought I hated them, but the ones on the boat taste like
milkshakes.

Drink at least one Coco Loco on Coco Cay (very refreshing).

Get the late seating for dinner. You can take your time in the ports and not have to rush back to get ready for dinner. Also
we were told by someone who had the early seating that once they were done eating there was nothing to do until the
second dining group was finished and the shows started.

If your hungry around 4 and have the late dinner, call room service, the food is still free (but you should give them a couple
of bucks for the delivery).

I thought I would hate the formal dinner and atmosphere of the dining room. Once I saw the dresses and other outfits my
wife had picked out for both the formal and the other nights as well, I decided I liked this atmosphere after all.

Have fun and perhaps I'll see you on the next cruise.


Name: Connie Gibson
Email: kix.major@worldnet.att.net
Age: 43
Occupation: self employed
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 7/12/99
Itinerary: Nassau, Coco Cay, Key West, Miami
Cabin: 5004/ F
FoodDiningRoom: 98
CruiseDirector: 100
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService: 70
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 100
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 98
FoodMidnightBuffets: 80
CabinSteward: 100
ShoreExcVariety: 100
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 100
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 100
LoungeService:
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 100
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 97
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 100
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 20 Jul 1999
Time: 20:06:45
Remote Name: 126.dayton-05-10rs.oh.dial-access.att.net
Remote User:

Comments

This was our first cruise. We were so pleased with the over all experience. First of all we had just wonderful
weather, perfect. We took our two teenagers, son 16, and daughter 14, as a family vacation. We all agreed that
our cruise was topped the list on family vacations.

I strongly recommend reading two books,to make your vacation a truly enjoyable experience. To add to your
knowledge as to what to expect for those of you,who like myself are first time cruisers,but like to be prepared.
Caribbean Cruises and ports of call, by Frommer. The Essential Little Cruise Book, Jim West. I highlighted
anything I thought would help me. They had some great tips.

Day One We had decided to make our own arrangements for air travel, and arrived in Miami a day before
departure. We stayed at the Comfort Inn East,near the airport(this was an Ok place)nice, but, okay...We arranged
with the front desk to have a shuttle van, transport us to the Port of Miami the next morning, at 12:15, allowing for
the traffic, etc. We arrived on time, with no waiting in line, went right onto the ship. If you need a dependable,
shuttle to the Port of Miami, I highly recommend Araujo International Services,Tours and Transportation, (305)
496-0626, Jose' is wonderful and the van was like new. Oh, do take a separate bag with you containing your
swimwear, and anything you need to be ready for dinner, if you choose an early seating, just in case your luggage
is late getting to your room. Oh, beware of the welcome on board drinks being offered there is a charge, I noticed
that some of the servers, have the price tag turned away so, as the guest accepts a drink, which you think is
free....suddenly you are asked for your card to charge this Welcome drink to your account,....but, the drink is
good, smile...just wanted to make you aware of it. Oh, I must warn you about the Picture of you boarding, smile,
and say cheese.....I actually loved those pictures, and thought they were good, $6.95 for a 5x7. They are always
taking your picture, you have the opportunity to make those purchases after viewing them, there is no pressure to
buy, they just make them available, You just walk by, the walls of photos, and look for your pictures, no pressure
to purchase. We were prepared for our quad cabin to be small, actually we thought is was really nice, and larger
than we were expecting, alittle along the lines of camping. We were located in the front of the ship, the 3rd cabin
from the very front, now we didn't have any problems with motion sickness, and we thought the cabin was quiet.
Away from the crowds in the rear of the ship, and then you didn't have the engine noise. I actually loved it. Dinner
was great, my Picky eaters, didn't flinch, and actually chowed down.... We truly enjoyed the dinners, being
together as a family, and our waiter, Nicholas, and Tomas, were great. The Cabin Stewart, Ernesto, was perfect,
smile.. Oh, after the muster drill,you are able to sign up for excursions.At 4:45 pm,on deck 4, do be early, don't
wait. We signed up for the Parasailing on Coco Cay, and the waverunners, and the floats, and the snorkeling
equipment. This is a must do, Okay, don't wait! My husband scooted to this, before the end of muster, and he was
the first in line, and believe me, he wasn't there alone for long. You must make your arrangements early, or miss
the opportunity to do these popular excursions.

Day Two Nassau We got going early, or I should say, my husband and I did, the teens got their much needed rest,
and we took off for the City, listen, you don't have to go on a excursion, to shop, you are docked right there, you
can walk, to the Straw Market, and if you go to the Port and Shopping Talk on Day 1 at 2:15,(this is all listed in the
Compass, which is left a day ahead in your cabin to keep you updated for the next day's events) So, you are
ready to shop, I liked the straw market, for bargains. Straw bags, etc..plus it was just downright interesting to watch
and take it all in, oh, by the way, after we left the contained group of shops, in open building with narrow walkways,
they called the Straw Market,my husband told me about this big rat,I didn't happen to see,good thing too, or I
would have alerted the whole town. We went back later with the kids, they enjoyed it.

Day Three Cococay This was the Real highlight for me, I loved this island, the weather was picture perfect. We
went on the waverunner tour, the earliest time, we left the ship at 8:00, and I really liked doing this early in the
morning, the tour was 50 minutes, and it was supervised, we had a guide, my son was 16, so he was my driver,
and he did great. I rate this excursion an A. Then we got back in plenty of time, to get a chair, and our snorkeling
equipment, and Floating Mats, DO GET those Mats, if you like to lay out in the sun, this is the only way to do it!
Being early on the island has it's advantages, the water was clear, and the snorkeling was great, later in the day,
the water was cloudy, and you couldn't see as much. Another MUST DO is the parasailing. $65. per person, but a
view that was worthwhile, smile.How often can you say you have flown with the eagles, smile. My husband and I
paid the extra $20 a per person, and went 800 ft. No regrets, smile..I loved it, It was safe, and thrilling at the same
time, don't miss this! The food was great, on this island, RCCL, really is a great way to see paradise, and that is
how I viewed Cococay.

Day 4 Key West

Again, a very enjoyable time, we really were so satisfied with our cruise at this point, Key West could have been a
total bust, and we wouldn't have minded, but, if was nice, the typical American resort town, to be honest, we didn't
go on any excursions there, just rode the trolley provided by the ship, to town, and wandered thru the streets,
window shopping. Oh, the one thing, that was sort of a pain, because we were back in an American port, after
being out of Country, all aliens had to be declared, and Immigration had come on board, and there were some
guests who didn't show. To go thru this necessary red tape, so,because of their thoughtlessness, we suffered the
gruelling wait, and couldn't leave our ship, until about 11:00. I thought this was extremely rude, infact they called
these thoughtless people by name, and cabin number, I thought, a 2x4 might have helped the situation along,
myself, this was totally thoughtless of them,as far as I was concerned, so just because you are docked, it doesn't
mean that you are going to get off that ship. So, remember this is vacation, a relaxing time, smile....and have a
Drink Special of the Day, $2.95, smile

Day 5 Miami.....oh, it's over,

Oh, for a final review, there are so many things to remember, I thought debarkation was a cinch, Thur, the cruise
director,was on TV,thru out the day, with information you need to know concerning debarkation. So, it goes
smoothly, it really is amazing, how well, this went, just have your bags packed and ready to go outside your door
the night before, and thats about it. And that carry all for your overnight things, we used a backpack, it worked
great for the four of us. We had a afternoon flight from the Miami airport, so what to do until then, why, we went on
one last excursion, of course, to the Everglades Safari Tour, nice clean new bus, took us to the Everglades, we
rode the Airboat, and then watched a alligator wrestling show, ( was really interesting) They had a little snack
shop, and we were pretty happy cruisers, we felt that we seen, met and enjoyed all our goals, life long good
memories of a Family Vacation, this wasn't the Chevy Chase brand vacation, folks.smile

A final note, we had two teenagers on this ship, they were very happy cruisers, very little to complain about, other
than the usual sibling things, such as she is looking at me again, he stepped on my foot.,etc.they really enjoyed
this vacation, there was plenty to do, they made friends quickly. What I think really surprised me the most,was how
much time, we all spent together as a family. This made the cruise even more enjoyable. The shows, not being a
show type of person, I just had to make a comment about The Shows, Michael James, was so funny, my husband,
just laughed and laughed, and the Couple Games, Not so Newly Wed Game, is a must see, The Quest, is on
Wednesday night,The Quest, an adult party game, a total riot. Cruising is something we are going to do again, we
are already planning to do so next Summer.

( we liked the Main seating at 6:30, we got back in plenty of time, from out excursions to dress for dinner) If you
need any more information, just email me,

 


Name:


Email: gold@clevejcc.org
Age: 45
Occupation: social worker
NumberOfCruises: 2
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 8/9/99
Itinerary: Bahamas, Coco Cay, Key West
Cabin: 4030
FoodDiningRoom: 100
CruiseDirector: 75
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 70
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 86
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 86
EntertShowLounge: 80
OverallPortsofCall: 80
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 89
CruiseActivities:
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 86
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 75
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 17 Aug 1999
Time: 00:19:26
Remote Name: p20-clv2-ts5.en.net
Remote User:

Comments

rusied with my entire family including 2 brother in laws and their kids, mother in law...Kids ranged from 3 to 20.
Embarkation was well organized. Remember to have your paper work filled out before you get in line.

Got on the ship and walked the decks - lunch at the Windjammer on the 11th level was fime - nothing fancy. Even
though the cruise was filled with 2500 - never seemed crowded. Always a chair near the pool.

Impressed with dining room service. Waiters and assistants are well trained - understand what customer service
should be. The food was plentiful, hot and of good quality - not gormet but very good. If its not on the menu - ask -
they'll find it. After day one the waiters know what yoou want and its waiting for you. This made the cruise extra
special. Breakfast is available at your dinging table or in the Windjammer - go to the dining room and get the
pampering its worth it.

Cabins were small but livable. You're not their that much so don't complain. The room steward was great - rarely saw
him bu the room was clean.

Entertainment was good - enjoyable. Get to the show about 30 minutes before its scheduled to start to get a decent
seat.

On Coco cay get to the island early or you won't get a beach chair - also get in line for lunch (its a barbeque) by
noon or you'll wait. Its not worth snorkling as there are 500 others in the small lagoon. Sit on the beach and enjoy.
We went back to the ship early and sat by the pool which was empty. Don't rush off the ship at the end of the cruise.
We go ready to go and then went up to the 11th deck until final call - we got right off and right out without a wait.

One member of the party needed medication refrigerated - went to the Pusers desk when we arrived and a frig was
delivered to the room in minutes.

2 of our group were 17 years old - a tough age on the cruise - they were to old for the teen programs and two young
for the singles programs at the bars, I'm sure they we'ren't the on;y ones 16-18 but there wasn't a way to get them
together. They went to the shows and made there own fun but it was a disappointment (the boys said that they
couldn't tell of the girls were 14 or 21) - oh well!

Enjoy


Name: R.A. Mathews
Email: islandboy@sportyforty.com
Age: 45
Occupation: defense consultant
NumberOfCruises: 7
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 8/23/99
Itinerary: Nassau-coco Cay-Key West
Cabin: 6551
FoodDiningRoom: 99
CruiseDirector: 95
CabinComfort: 60
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 80
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets: 80
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 80
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 99
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 99
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 95
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 99
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 95
Casino: 95
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 99
EmbarkDisembark: 99
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 99
Stabilization: 99
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 06:47:40
Remote Name: pentagon-pc2.army.pentagon.mil
Remote User:

Comments

This was a wonderful four-night cruise. We have taken cruises on four lines, and find that RCI has a consistently
good product for most ages and interests. We took our children (ages 5 and 10), and therefore chose this cruise
for its itinerary and length. The ship is maintained beautifully, the service is first-rate, the dining room food is
excellent and the service matches it. The food in the Windjammer leaves something to be desired, but it is
'cafeteria-style,' and I suppose only Celebrity has mastered that art. We were part of a group of 42 people, and
never felt crowded or bored the entire time. The snorkeling at Coco Cay (not to mention the Coco Locos!)was
great. The childrens' programs had our kids begging to go to them--very well done and entertaining. The shows
were good, the lounge entertainment pleasant and the entire voyage was among the best we've taken--especially
for a short cruise. Now if the cabins were only big enough to turn around in...

I would recommend this ship for anyone who cannot find the time for a 7-day or longer cruise. Except for number
of days, there was nothing lacking on the Sovereign that we have experienced on our longer cruises. Our group
had families, singles, young and old (one of our party celebrated his 84th birthday aboard) and all gave it a 'two
thumbs up.' We are considering the same cruise for next year, if that means anything!


Name: Charlene Dickinson
Email: cgdickin@tva.gov
Age: 47
Occupation: Matl Officer
NumberOfCruises: 2
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Sovereign
SailingDate: 08-30-99
Itinerary: Nassau, CocoCay, Key West
Cabin: 1056, C
FoodDiningRoom: 100
CruiseDirector: 95
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService: 95
CruiseStaff: 100
CabinAmenities: 100
FoodLidoDeck: 95
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 100
CabinSteward: 100
ShoreExcVariety: 100
FoodVariety: 100
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue: 95
GoodForHoneymoon: 100
CasinoStaff: 95
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 100
LoungeService: 100
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 100
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 100
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 100
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 100
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 14 Sep 1999
Time: 08:11:55
Remote Name: tvainet.tva.gov
Remote User:

Comments

My husband and I selected this cruise for our 10th Anniversary. We were both very pleased overall with our cruise.
Our cabin was a category C, cabin # 1056. We were quite pleased with this cabin and our cabin stewart, Antonio.
Room was always clean and tidy, hardly ever saw Antonio. We had picture windows, 2 small sofas, a table, vanity area,
and a bathtub. We also had use of 2 RC bathrobes, which we chose not to purchase. We did have a safe in our cabin
which was a very pleasant surprise. Embarkation was a breeze, so was disembarkation. The lines seemed long, but
RC definitely knows how to organize so that you just go right on the boat. No problems here whatsoever, on and off
and finding our luggage was totally smooth. The Air/Sea Program was also very efficient, after reading some
comments on this site, I kinda expected the worst. But everything went as scheduled. We were on the ship by noon,
and having a nice lunch in the Windjammer Cafe by 1:00, after inspecting our cabin. We had plenty of space for
everything and our luggage arrived by 5:00 pm. I purchased the Royal Occasions Package, and our Champagne was
waiting for us on ice upon arrival. I felt this was a good value, we also had champagne breakfast in bed, chocolates
one night, and a beautiful silver picture frame and an 8 x 10 formal portrait.

Nassau was about the same as when we visited 9 yrs. ago, laid-back and pleasant, Mon. Enjoyed our day there, took
the Yellowbird boat tour. Enjoyed this tour, and the little island they take you to. They had a live band that everyone
enjoyed, and a Limbo contest. Oh yea, everybody enjoyed the free rum punch, too. We also went to the straw market
and dropped lots of money for soveneirs, of course. I enjoyed barganing with the locals. CocoCay was wonderful, we
just rented mats and lounged around and walked around for the day. Went back to the ship a little early and almost
had the pool all to ourselves! This was nice. Key West was nice, but real humid. We rode the trolley, and just walked
around and shopped all day. Very enjoyable day, had lunch at 'Hog's Breath's Salon', which included hog-dog and
hog-burger. Fun!

We had 2nd seating dinner in Kismet Dining Room. Our waiter, Malcom, and asst. waiter, Martha, were wonderful!!
They couldn't do enough for us. We were seated with only one other couple, who we got along famously with. By the
end of the cruise, we were tasting each other's foods! We usually went to the Casino with them after dinner-they won a
little, we lost a lot, ha.

They do take a lot of pictures, but their is no pressure to buy them. I did buy a lot of them, as I'm sure most cruisers
did. After all, these are memories. We had an Anniversary cake presented to us on formal night by our Headwaiter,
who was super! I tried escargo, Mai-Mai, and several other dishes. If I didn't like, no problem, Malcom would wisk it
away and bring me something else, he also peeled my shrimp- I wondered if he was going to burp me, too, ha. It was
truly a very enjoyable dining experience, food was excellent, always served hot, and my steak(s) were cooked
well-done, as requested. The filet and prime rib were excellent!! My husband loved the breads, but not my favorite. We
ate breakfast in the Windjammer and they offered anything you could possibly want. We usually did lunch, there, too,
except twice we did lunch in the dining room. We usually wanted to hurry up and go do something else instead of
spending a lot of time in the dining room for breakfast or lunch, though. The waiters and assts. did do some singing
and dancing, which was cute. They really looked like they were enjoying it as well. They did the macarena and that
was cute, and by the end of the meal, the whole dining room was into it.

We were very lucky, weatherwise, a slight shower in Key West. I was concerened about Hurricane Dennis but we
managed to avoid it. Picture-perfect weather all week!

Overall, I would give Royal Caribbean a 100 in Customer Service!! All the staff really were customer-focused, and it
was obvious they wanted their customers to have a good time. I was very impressed with how quickly the lines moved
for everything, from embarkation to the shore excursions, very organized, painless.

As far as tipping, we tipped above the suggested amount because we felt service rendered was impeccable! The
employees at the Purser's Desk were also very friendly and helpful. We were off the ship by 8:30 am and on our way
to Miami Airport!

We will definitely cruise Royal Caribbean again, hopefully for 7 days next year. Happy Cruising!!


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