rci-voyager4

Note - this page contains multiple reviews.

Name: barry gerber
Email: bgerber21@excite.com
Age: 50
Occupation: television news cameraman
NumberOfCruises: 15
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Voyager
SailingDate: 2/6/00
Itinerary: Western Caribbean
Cabin: 9589
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 89
FoodRoomService: 0
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets: 89
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 0
FoodVariety: 89
DeckService: 89
ShoreExcValue: 0
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff: 0
PrivateIsland: 89
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 80
BeautySalonStaff: 0
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess: 0
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 98
OverallPortsofCall: 80
BeautySalon: 0
EntertainmentPoolside: 70
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 0
AirSeaProgram: 0
MedicalFacilities: 0
ShipCleanliness: 99
EmbarkDisembark: 99
DiscoNightclubs: 89
DeckSpace: 89
Stabilization: 99
ShopsOnBoard: 89
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 21 Feb 2000
Time: 18:14:36
Remote Name: user1.cablevision.com
Remote User:

Comments

If Royal Caribbeans intention was to build the first truly floating resort, than with the launching of the
Voyager of the Seas they more than succeeded in this effort. After having been on 14 cruises in last
15 years I consider myself a cruise aficionado and after reading the reviews on all the cruise boards
concerning this ship I must admit I was expecting just another cruise albeit a significantly large one.
First I want to say that I don’t intend to describe all the features found on board this vessel (other
reviews have described the ship endlessly and better than I can) but rather add my insight as to the
intangibles and nuances that I observed. If my comments and observations can aid anyone booked
or is planning to book aboard the Voyager , than I consider this a job well done.

When you first
enter the Port of Miami , you realize the only ship visible is the Voyager. Towering some 20 stories
tall it truly is a massive structure, and stands out from all other ships in port, how massive she really
is will be described later. The terminal is reminiscent of the Canada Terminal in Vancouver,
complete with canvas sails, and is quite large inside with many passenger embarkation personal to
aid in the pre-boarding procedure. This was the fastest I have ever been cleared to embark taking
approximately five minutes. And this was taking place at 1:00 in the afternoon with no crowds, or
lines. Two comments I have to make here, first, the embarkation staff are extremely helpful and
friendly. Second , they will ask you for a birth certificate , unusual for me since this was first time I
was ever asked to produce one. The gangway to the ship is well designed and very wide affording
lots of room to maneuver carry-on luggage. It deposits you on deck 4 where you enter the ship at
the Aquarium bar.

There are ship personal to greet you and direct you to your cabin but you do not
get Celebrity Cruises white glove service personal escorts. In all fairness to Royal Caribbean, with
3000+ passengers this attention would be very draining on the staff and I can understand why it
wasn’t provided, but by the same token this is a very large and somewhat intimidating ship
(especially to the elderly passengers) and on a case by case basis they should consider aiding
some of these passengers. The hallways leading to the cabins are brightly colored and wide and
you will feel as though you were on a land based hotel rather than a cruise ship. After getting
acclimatized with Port and Starboard I arrived at my cabin on deck 9 (inside) The doors to the
cabins are very much like hotel doors in that they are textured in a sea scallop shape and are
tropical pink in color (very Caribbean) and very nice touch. The cabins are traditional Royal
Caribbean, small yet acceptable, although I must comment that there was barely enough draw
space and I was traveling alone. Had there been two or more in a cabin this size it would have been
quite a challenge.

On other cruise boards I have read comments that R.C.I. doesn’t supply
amenities such as shampoo, soap, or hair dryers. This is not the case. The hair dryer can be found
in the top draw of the vanity. There was a comment about the lack of cloths hangers . Again this was
not the case, in fact there were more hangers than on any other ship I’d traveled on. (I counted 30
in my closet) There is a personal safe, although it is not mentioned in any of the cabin or suite
descriptions. The interactive television .has been discussed in other reviews and the only comment I
can make here is that it always performed well and accurately. If you are interested in knowing the
time of day I would suggest you bring a travel clock that lights . The only clock in the cabin is located
on the telephone and is not lit a minor detail that R.C.I. could easily correct. When first discovering
this ship you are immediately overwhelmed with its beauty and the dedication of the architects to
make sure no detail was overlooked. Individual descriptions of the public spaces have been done
before and the one comment that comes to mind is that this ship has to be seen in person to truly
be appreciated , as words alone cannot do it justice. I will attempt whenever possible to point out the
minor details and touches that added to my experience on board, for instance while waiting for the
Centrum elevators there is inlaid woodwork above you and marble and brass floor indicators that
add just that extra touch of class. Although this ship is remarkably beautiful and luxurious the
underlying feeling on board is one of light hearted whimsy.

This is evident from the down to earth
attitude of the Captain , Johnny Faevelen , ( the most entertaining and personable ships captain I
have ever cruised with, he genuinely enjoys what he does and his attitude reflects on the entire staff
) to the comical interplay of the “Krooz Komics “ ( four talented graduates of Ringling Brothers clown
college, who can be seen throughout the cruise in various parts of the ship performing mime acts,
juggling, and comedy routines that occasionally involve unsuspecting passengers in good natured
mayhem.) Which brings up the subject of entertainment. I thought I had seen great performances in
the past especially aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines Norway, and Seaward, but as good as those
acts were nothing compares with the entertainment found aboard this ship. It is extremely varied
from classical to jazz, eclectic comedy to fantastic acts of acrobatics on ice. Special note must be
made to the ice shows held twice a cruise and by all means should not be missed . They were so
well performed it was the only show I had to attend twice.

The shows are held in the ice arena (
Studio B located on deck 3) This room is unique in that it is a true arena with stadium seating . This
room also acts as a concert hall when the ice is covered. ( A sockhop is held here complete with
rock band and light show M.C.’d by non other than Austin Powers) The ice show incorporates ten
competition skaters doing intricate choreography set to inspiring music accompaniment and
spectacular lighting effects. The highlight of the show is when two skaters lit only in black light are
attached to cables and transfer from ice to the air above the audience doing flips and spins. It was
very emotional and amazing to see. After the Ice-Capade portion is done there is head to head
Olympic style competition done with television coverage shown on jumbo- trons located around the
room. Being in the television business I was very impressed, it was comparable to the coverage you
would expect to see on ABC’s Wide World of Sports. The competitors perform routines difficult for
full sized land based ice rinks and when you consider that triples and somersaults are attempted
and successfully done on a moving cruise ship, it is nothing short of miraculous.

Of all the acts and
shows performed on board during the cruise in my opinion this show was the weeks highlight . A hint
for future passengers, the arena seats on three sides but the best seating is in the center. Arrive 15
minutes early and you’ll have no problems getting the seat you want. This also holds true for the La
Scala Theatre as well. The Voyager has scheduled all the shows and events in such a way as to not
over-lap. You never have to leave an event early to be able to attend something else, and being
able to get to the shows early assures you of getting good seating. Seating is very important in the
La Scala Theatre where the sight lines in the balcony are poor in some locations. The two wings of
the stage are also used by the performers so the best seating in this theatre is definitely center
either orchestra or balcony avoid the sides. The best show in the theatre is “Dreamscape”, a song
and dance extravaganza yet done with a fresh approach and performed by a great cast of singers
and dancers.( Not just another revue)

During my cruise I got to see the performance of comedians
Mario and Daniel and they were absolutely hysterical. Other acts included Tony Tillman, a high
energy song and dance man as well as various Ed Sullivan type performers. Another highlight of the
Voyagers barrage of entertainment not to be missed takes place in the Royal Promenade where two
parade spectaculars take place. The first night is a welcome aboard parade with all the entertainers
on the ship participating in fabulous costumes. This is also where the captain and his crew are
introduced. There is a laser light show and the parade in very much like being in the Yellow
Submarine cartoon. The actors get the passengers involved and the feeling at this parade is truly
magical. ( Make sure you get a position on the Pubs side of the Promenade bridge to get the best
view) During the day the Promenade is the stage for the Krooz Komics and they are great fun. All
the descriptions of this space have been reviewed but when you walk through be sure to notice the
center ceiling area. There is a round mirrored tube that has tiffany lighting as is very unusual and
can easily be overlooked . And don’t forget to say hello to Bridget, or check on the painter. When I
first decided to book my vacation on the Voyager I had read disparaging comments concerning the
food and service. This could not have been further from the truth. My last three vacations were
aboard Celebrity Cruise Lines and although R.C.I. is not in their category I must say that I was
pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of the food served. The service in the dinning room
was first rate, with service being prompt and efficient. The deserts were some of the best I’ve eaten,
and the wine service was professional and extensive. The dinner in the Portofino restaurant was
very good and the service there was also prompt and efficient. The deserts served in this restaurant
were even better than in the main dinning room the Tirimasu being scrumptious. Another hint here is
to make your reservations as soon as possible as there was no availability by the end of the week.
(The best days are Wednesday and Friday.) Other events worthy of noting are the Captains
welcome aboard party. This is held the second evening and is not your typical meet the captain take
a picture event. This cocktail party is held in the Royal Promenade where all the bars are closed
and as far as you can see , champagne glasses are prepared and served along with hot and cold
horsd’oeuvres . It is amazing that a true cocktail party can be arranged For 1500+ passengers and
still have it feel like an intimate party. Another party that was very impressing was the repeaters
party held in Cleopatra’s Needle, the largest lounge on board. An open bar with music and food
complete with ice carvings greeted over 1300 repeat passengers (a tribute to R.C.I.) This party
culminated with the appearance of the captain who spent a good amount of time with his guests.
Few repeat parties have compared with this one. Not to let anyone feel left out the captain
addressed the entire ship on the last night when he held stage for a good 15-20 minutes at the
good-bye show in the main theatre. It seems that this crew from captain to room steward is
determined to ensure all guests are treated as guests not as customers. In summation I have to say
this was a great cruise experience and one I was not anticipating. This ship is the ultimate cruise
ship which all others must be measured against, not just in size but in what it has to offer. It rivals
any land based resort and surpasses most of those. I would be remiss if I didn’t comment on a few of
the things that I found could be improved upon : First again let me state that this a very large ship.
You really appreciate its size when you are tendering ashore in Labadee and from the tender you
can’t see the top of the ship, the front of the ship or the back of the ship. This size is also evident
when navigating from place to place, it takes time and the elderly passengers were making comment
that the ship was too big for them to negotiate. Perhaps a people mover of some sort could be
implemented in future constructions. The pool deck though huge, seems somewhat chaotic and the
placement of an artistic glass pyramid seems to take up the space a dance floor could occupy.
Another small personal point was the lack of outdoor casual eating. I always enjoy having breakfast
and lunch in the sun and to do this you would have to take your food out to the pool deck which
would have been very inconvenient. . One last point concerned the English Pub” The Pig and
Whistle”, Guiness Stout on tap is really a great treat but it was unavailable after the first night do to
lack of gas to operate the tap, this was very disappointing and was properly addressed by the staff.
Royal Caribbean has a winner of a product with this ship and I hope my experience is not a result of
the fact that this was only the 12th cruise of this ship. It seems that what I had read on the cruise
boards are listened to by Royal Caribbean and problems corrected thus improving cruise by cruise.
Believe it or not you do have a feeling of intimacy on this ship even when you are surrounded by
3000+ of you closest friends. I am glad I was aboard this ship and proud to be among the many who
can say they sailed her inaugural season.

Name: Ellen DiPinto
Email: EDipinto@aol.com
Age: 45
Occupation: Administrative Assistant
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Voyager
SailingDate: 2/13/00
Itinerary: Western Caribbean
Cabin: 8516
FoodDiningRoom: 85
CruiseDirector: 80
CabinComfort: 80
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 80
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 80
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 88
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 80
ShoreExcValue: 80
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 80
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 89
OverallPortsofCall: 79
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities: 95
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 85
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 79
SpaceRatio: 86
OverallCruiseValue: 93
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 25 Feb 2000
Time: 21:51:05
Remote Name: spider-wb022.proxy.aol.com
Remote User:

Comments

My husband, 2 girls (ages 13 and 11) and I kept repeating to each other that this was one of the best
vacations we have ever had! The service on the ship was terrific, both by the our room steward, Palmer, and
by our dining room staff, Abdulah and Aspen. Whatever we wanted or needed was met with a reply of 'no
problem' and you really got the sense that they meant it. Palmer always had pillow art waiting for us when we
returned to our cabin by day and towel art (dog, stingray, elephant) by night which consistently elicited shrieks
and laughter from the girls. The shows at dinner by the wait staff are pretty lame but they did try. The shows
(both stage and ice)were professional, well directed and carried out. The comedians really made us laugh.
And, yes, I did go to the gym every day! There was a class at 8:00 a.m. each morning that offered variety and
companionship and a real workout with instructors who really made it fun. I did not use the equipment part of
the gym, but my husband did.

Everything was clean and well kept. I don't believe he ever had a problem with
having to wait to use equipment. This gym put many full service land gyms to shame. I participated in the work
out fashion show pool side and was offered a great deal on a work out outfit afterward. I collected ship shape
dollars for doing classes and was able to get a little gift (a towel) at the end of the cruise. The family did the
rock climbing, an $8 upcharge, that was definitely worth the money. Instructors were great, really helpful,
wouldn't let you give up without trying your best. The $8 entitles you to 1 1/2 hours on the wall, a bargain. We
didn't golf or roller blade but saw others doing same and seemed to be enjoying it. The basketball court
always, always had a game in progress and the boys (both young and old) were competitive and included
newcomers without any problem. We also went to Portofino's Restaurant for an upcharge of $6 per person,
this was also worth the investment, the food and service was good. I definitely recommend breakfast and lunch
in the Carmen dining room; menu selection, waiter service and a chance to meet and talk with fellow
passengers.

The Windjammer was o.k. in a pinch but it was typical buffet food (however, it should be noted
that the dining rooms are beautiful). We did land tours in Jamaica (Brimmer Hall and Falls)and Cozumel (2 hr
snorkeling) and we were definitely glad we did. It was a good use of time and very well organized. The girls
had their hair braided in Jamaica by the tour guides who had to hide us in a parking lot to perform their
service, so they wouldn't get in trouble from their employer. This ended up being one of the highlights of the
girls experience in Jamaica because the tour guides talked of their life there and were actually very interesting.
The island of Labadee is a treasure. We so enjoyed swimming, banana boating and relaxing on the beach.
Plenty of chairs and equipment for all. Of course, there were photo opportunities by the professionals on
board every time you turned around. However, if you didn't want to participate you were not hassled and could
just pass them by. My only negative experience came at the end of our trip. My husband and I signed up for a
full body massage (sign up on first day if you are interested because the spa books by the second day). My
massage was just o.k. For the $100 charge I thought it could have been a lot better. After a treatment like this
you are usually left to relax and maybe even fall asleep, after all isn't that the purpose of paying for such a
luxury? I was told I had three minutes to get up and get dressed. Do you know why? The next 15 minutes was
spent trying to sell products from the spa. This lotion, this vitamin, etc. When I resisted the sell became a little
more intense. I found it very, very annoying and left the spa more tense than I had entered it. My husband
came out and said he had purchased a sport gel and water treatment. When we looked at the bill...$160.00! I
took it back and returned it immediately. So be forwarned...it is my only complaint.

Name: Tom & Mary Milano
Email: tmilano@n-jcenter.com
Age: 72
Occupation: retired restauranteur
NumberOfCruises: 14
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Voyager
SailingDate: February 13, 2000
Itinerary: Western Caribbean
Cabin: Atrium #6593
FoodDiningRoom: 69
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 82
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 75
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 69
DeckService: 75
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 80
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 70
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 75
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 75
OverallPortsofCall: 80
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 80
DeckSpace: 85
Stabilization: 85
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 85
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 11 Mar 2000
Time: 13:05:03
Remote Name: nspm3-29.n-jcenter.com
Remote User:

Comments

Tom & Mary Milano Voyager of the Sea-Western Caribbean February 13, 2000

Please read this review with an open mind. We are writing it from our perspective which might be quite
different from yours. The very reasons that we chose to book a certain cruise line and a specific ship,
might be just the reasons that you would not chose them for your booking. I will mention a few things we
look for and like to do when we cruise, that will give you some idea of where we are coming from.

We are in our mid seventies. I am a retired restauranteur and have been retired since 1973. We have
traveled extensively and decided to try our first cruise in July of 1996, aboard Celebrity's Zenith. This
cruise experience changed our lives and has made us passionate about cruising. We have made 14
cruises in less than four years. I use the word cruise when I am writing a review but when Mary & I refer to
our cruises, we refer to them as honeymoons. We do this because I can't think of a more romantic or
exciting way to spend time with ones spouse than on a cruise. We enjoy spending a lot of quality time
together and we find for us that there is no better way of doing this than cruising. We will be going on our
15th honeymoon May 7, aboard the Grand Princess, to the Eastern Caribbean.

We like the newer, larger ships because there is more to see and more to do. Most of the newer ships
offer the latest in design and technology and creature comforts. The overall decor and appointments of
the ship go a long way in creating the atmosphere that we enjoy while cruising. We enjoy being
pampered and catered too, therefore the attitude and the desire of the crew to please us, is very
important. We enjoy going to an intimate lounge with good dance music, for cocktails and dancing before
dinner. In the dining room we look for good quality food and pastries and efficient, friendly service,
without our waiter becoming a member of our party. After dinner, we like to once again go to an intimate
lounge with dance music, for after dinner drinks and dancing as we wait for show time. After the show, we
go to a lounge that we can again dance before retiring for the evening. As you can tell, we enjoy dancing.
We also like to get dressed up and aboard ship is one of a very few places that you can get dressed and
not worry that you might be seated next to some one in dungarees. We are not very interested in games
or quiz's of any type. The ports and the excursions are not important to us to us. If we go ashore, we
usually go to a good hotel and pay them a small fee to use their facilities, ocean area, pool, shower and
restaurant and etc. If we have a Western Itinerary, we go to the Grand Hotel in Ocho Rios and in the port
of Cozumel we make sure to have lunch in Pancho's Backyard. They have a Marimba band playing on
the patio, it's a delightful place. We hope knowing some of the things we like and dislike will help you
make a better evaluation of our review.

I have read a number of reviews of the Voyager where the writer says the ship has been described many
times, therefore I'm not going to go into the details and decor of the ship. In our opinion, whatever has
been said about this magnificent ship is not enough because it is near impossible to fully describe its
awesome beauty. This was our 14th cruise and in our estimation this is the most beautiful and well
appointed ship we have cruised on. It is breathtaking in its design. It has to be seen to truly appreciate
the exquisite detailing and workmanship that is evident throughout the vessel. I will first tell you of our
embarkation and cabin, and then I will attempt to describe various areas of the ship and our overall
impression.

EMBARKATION:

We arrived at the pier at 11.30, dropped off our luggage, and I parked our car in the parking lot directly
across the street from the entrance to the terminal. We went directly to the counter, (there was no one in
front of us) and checked in. We waited 10 minutes and boarded the ship at 12.00 o'clock. It was the
smoothest embarkation we have experienced. We were directed to our cabin, Atrium #6593.

CABIN: ATRIUM #6593 The Atrium cabins are one of the newer innovations by RC to increase the
desirability of inside cabins. They are inside cabins with the opposite wall from the door being a bay
window with a love seat, overlooking the main promenade that connects two atriums. The room was
tastefully done. There were two love seats. One by the bay window and one to the right of the bed, with a
small cocktail table between them. For some reason we can't figure out, when the two beds were put
together, it became a king size bed. The lower corners of the bed were round in shape to give much
needed room to pass by. This made the cabin appear smaller than it actually was. The closet was decent
but the drawer space was very limited. The bathroom was small but adequate. Overall the cabin was
comfortable and surprisingly quiet.

Our cabin attendant was very efficient and very pleasant. He often surprised us with towel sculptures
which were surprisingly realistic.

THE PROMENADE & ATRIUMS: The promenade is absolutely beautiful. It is approximately the length of
two football fields, and about 40 feet in width and is five decks high, joined by two Atriums. A stunning
design innovation which I'm sure we will see more of on the newer ships. The promenade can best be
described as a main boulevard in a very upbeat section of town. The boulevard is lined with gift shops,
the Pig N Whistle tavern (where you can sit outside on the sidewalk and sip a stout as you watch the
people pass by,) The Score Bar, (a place where you could get a drink and all the latest scores of
sporting events around the world), a small casino with a giant roulette wheel, an ice cream stand that you
can help yourself to a ice cream cone any time of the day or night, an all night restaurant the Cafe
Promenade, that served pizza, ready made sandwiches and the best cakes, pies and pastry we have had
aboard any ship. Above the various gift shops and stores were four stories of atrium cabin windows
overlooking the promenade.

This promenade was joined on each end by two truly magnificent Atriums that had floating stairways that
encompassed six decks. Each Atrium had four glass enclosed elevators that were very quiet and offered
great views of the Promenade when they were in motion. And RC as is their custom, changed the carpet
every everyday, telling what day it was. The various views that one glimpsed as they ascended the
stairways and the elevators were breath taking. Many times during our cruise Mary & I would find
ourselves standing in one of the stairwells remarking what an exceptional job the designers did. There
wasn't a detail overlooked.

The promenade was the focal point of the ship. The first night they had a welcome aboard parade along
the Promenade that was complete with dancers, singers, stilt walkers, jugglers and the Krooz comics.
Both sides of the boulevard were lined with people as the parade came passing by. The captains party
was also held on the promenade. Everything was done in very good taste and was truly a party.
Champagne and hors d'oeuvres were being served everywhere on the boulevard. The full show
orchestra was on one side of the boulevard playing as the people were walking by in their formal attire
with a champagne glass in their hand. It was truly a sight to behold. Halfway down the promenade was an
overhead walkway. The night of the captains party, Ken Rush, the cruise director introduced the captain
and the officers and as each one was introduced they ascended the stairs and took a position on the
crosswalk and then made their remarks. It was a great setting and a very exciting prelude to a wonderful
evening. Without a doubt, it was the best captains party we ever attended.

They had a number of parades on the promenade. One was a Mardi Gras parade with the participants,
(Girls from the shows and members of the entertainment staff and crew), in full Mardi Gras costumes, stilt
walkers and etc. Mary & I watched this parade from our bay window in our atrium cabin. They also had a
group called the Krooz comics, who would stroll the promenade engaging the people on the promenade
in all kinds of shenanigans. They were graduates of the Barnum & Baily clown college and they did a
great job. Sometimes it was a little difficult to get through the promenade because of the volume of
people and all that was going on, but we didn't mind because it was such a gay and festive atmosphere.

DINING ROOM & FOOD: The dining rooms has three levels with the centerpiece being a huge crystal
chandelier that is reputed to have cost a half million dollars. I don't doubt it. It is very impressive. The
entire atmosphere is one of eloquence.

When we sailed aboard RC's Enchantment of the Sea last year, the food was very good and the service
excellent, but we can't say that about the Voyager. The menu, the food and the service were less than
mediocre, in fact, it was the poorest of any of our cruises. The Chef had a tendency to use rice with most
every dish and the dishes are very inconsistent. Although the food wasn't what it should be, the pastries
were the best we have ever had. The last two nights the menu was so poor it was difficult to make a
selection. I finally ordered a New York Strip Steak. It was not very good. Our waiter, who knew we were
formally in the restaurant business, tried to help us by telling us what not to order, but it didn't help. I told
him we were disappointed in the quality of the food and he agreed and said that he gets a number of
complaints. He also said that the crew haven't come together as a family and the service isn't what it
should be. I can't understand why RC didn't take the top executive chef of their fleet and put him in the
kitchen of this magnificent vessel. This is especially true since they own the Celebrity line which has the
best cuisine of any of the cruise lines.

CAFE PROMENADE: This is a 24 hr a day restaurant that is located on the Promenade, that serves
Pizza, ready made sandwiches and pastry. The food is excellent, the service very good, and it has a
great atmosphere in a very convenient location. Make sure you look at the beautiful workmanship in the
treatment of the walls and especially the ceilings. Superb design and workmanship.

WINDJAMMER & ISLAND GRILL: This is the breakfast and lunch area. This is in the aft section of the ship
and is a very beautiful dining area. It is a well appointed room and offers great views of the ocean. The
food is good and tastefully presented.

JOHNNIE ROCKETS-FRANCHISE RESTAURANT: We heard how great it was and we better be sure and
get there early because we wouldn't be able to get a table. We made sure we were there fifteen minutes
before twelve, there wasn't anyone in line. We were seated at twelve o'clock and ordered two
hamburgers and two shakes.. We finished our hamburgers, which weren't that great, and paid our check.
It was now 5 minutes to I o'clock. Fifty five minutes and not another person was in the restaurant. So
much for this new franchising idea.

ENTERTAINMENT: Maybe we expected too much. We thought the Voyager, with all the attention being
paid to it as being the largest and most luxurious ship afloat, was sure to have the very best of
entertainment. This wasn't the case. We were not overly impressed with either the shows or the single act
performers. Many people raved about the production numbers. It is very probable that the reason we
didn't particularly enjoy it was the fact it wasn't the type entertainment we enjoy.

THE ICE SHOW: In recent years we are seeing more and more ice reviews on our TV's. When I heard
there was an ice show aboard the Voyager, I said to myself, no way. We decided to go to show because
of a review I read in the Wheelhouse Cruise Review, on the Internet. The writer, Ernest Roller, who has
made forty cruises wrote, the ice show aboard the Voyager was the best show he has ever seen at sea.
Mary & I agree with Ed Roller, this is by far the best show we have seen during our 14 cruises. From the
very opening moments, it had a mystical exciting quality that made you sit on the edge of your seat and
just marvel at what these talented performers could do in such a limited space. The big band
accompaniment was absolutely sensational. One of the best places to sit is in the center section. It gives
you the best view. Don't miss it!

CLEOPATRA'S NEEDLE: Is a very beautiful and elegant show lounge. It is decorated in Egyptian motif.
Very authentic and very attractive. This is where the various dance bands played. Unfortunately for us,
they played very little of the type music we enjoy, like the 40's and 50's music. It was only on the last two
nights of our cruise that we were able to dance to our kind of music. We wonder if the younger people
realize how wonderful and romantic it is to hold the one you love close to you when you dance, while
listening to strains of a romantic ballad. We wish we were able to dance more.

AQUARIUM BAR: The thought and details that went into the construction of this lounge is mind boggling.
The lounge encompass's the entire area around the stairways of the aft atrium on deck #3. It is what it's
name implies, it is a true aquarium. The walls of this entire area, port and starboard, are walls of glass
containing 45,000 gallons of water, (I'm pretty sure that's a proper quote), and behind the glass are a
colorful array of all kinds of tropical fish. We enjoyed going there before dinner to have a cocktail while
viewing the aquarium, and listening to the music of a very accomplished string trio.

SCHOONER BAR: Another very attractive bar area located forward of the ship, with a very fine piano
player, playing and singing the songs of yesteryear. A good place to have drink while waiting for show
time. The decor and appointments are superb. Unfortunately, the room never had the activity it deserved

POOL AREA: We were somewhat disappointed in the pool area. It was very difficult to get a lounge chair
in either the area of two main pools or the spa area. The pools and the Jacuzzi's were overflowing with
people. We usually enjoy the pool area on a cruise and spend a great deal of time there, but this was not
the case on the Voyager. The band platform was poorly placed. Canvas on its side restricted the view of
a very wide area. There was also a needle sculpture that was misplaced and took up a great deal of the
dance area.

PHOTO SHOP: The photo shop area was the best laid out photo display area we have seen. It was
altogether in one compact area. They set up photo opportunities in really great places and before the
photographer took your picture he asked what deck were you on.. When you looked for your photos you
went to the area that was marked with your deck number. It made it much easier to find your pictures.

CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA: We went through the entire children's play area. It is astounding what they
have done for the children. Without going into details, we found it to be the largest and most remarkable
array of equipment, games, videos, computers, you name it and they have it. Also included is the entire
aft section of the deck which is the setting for a large children's pool with a slide which is outstanding. If
you have children I would suggest you consider booking the Voyager. I think they will be thrilled.

SUMMATION:

We have very mixed feelings about the Voyager. Without a doubt it is the most beautiful ship we have
ever sailed. We like so many things about the ship, but the areas that you would expect them to excel at,
were far below average. Such as food and service in the dining room. I'd like to think this is going to
vastly improve after the crew has some more time together, working as a team. If they do improve in
those areas and if the cruise director Ken Rush would see to it that there was a lounge where one could
dance to the music of the 40's and 50's, we very well might sail on it once a year. I think there are enough
lounges aboard these new ships, that the entertainment director could have one lounge cater to those
who like to dance to the romantic music of the 40's & 50's. An example of how this can be done is the way
the Princess line schedules the music aboard the Sea Princess, and in particular the Wheelhouse
Lounge. They have a terrific duo, a husband and wife team that plays in the Wheelhouse Lounge from
5:30 to 9:00, then another group, a trio from 9 o'clock on. They played a lot of requests, so everyone got
to hear their favorite tunes. We went there every night before dinner for drinks and dancing and then
after diner we stopped in for an after dinner drink and dancing while waiting for the show to start. The
room was packed every night. A great many people are looking for this type of music on some sort of
steady basis.. In fact because of the way Princess schedules their music, I researched reviews and found
out that the Grand Princess also had a Wheelhouse lounge and had a duo and a trio playing as they did
aboard the Sea Princess. This was one of the main reasons we booked a cruise aboard the Grand
Princess for this May 7th.

We encourage everyone that has ever cruised to try the Voyager at least once. It is a totally different
experience and I believe it is a preview of the cruise ships of the future.

If anyone can tell us anything about the Wheelhouse lounge on the Grand Princess, we would like to
hear from you. If we can answer anyone's questions, our E-Mail address is: tmilano@n-jcenter.com

Happy Cruising Tom & Mary Milano

Name: Henry Stein
Email: Henrystein@hotmail.com
Age: 41
Occupation: attorney
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: RoyalCaribbean-Voyager
SailingDate: 3/12/00
Itinerary: Miami-Labadee-Ocho Rios-Cozumel-Miami
Cabin: 8538 - d8
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 80
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 75
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 75
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 85
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService:
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 95
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge:
OverallPortsofCall: 70
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 20 Mar 2000
Time: 19:05:18
Remote Name: radsl-steinlaw.phx.primenet.com
Remote User:

Comments

The Voyager of the Seas is truly magnificent ship. It is well designed with thougtful consideration to every
detail. I can not overstate the wonder and beauty of the ship.

The crew and staff were top-notch. Almost every member of the crew went out of their way to be helpful
and went the extra mile at nearly every opportunity.

The ship was also very efficiently run. Even though the ship was full, I never felt crowded nor did I ever
have to wait in any long lines, from the time of check-in to disembarkation.

There were a few negatives:

First, Royal Caribbean attempts to charge for items which, in my view, should be part of the base
package. For example, soft drinks outside the dining room are on a pay-basis. Likewise, some of the
on-board activities were on a pay-basis (e.g., rock-climbing wall, miniature golf, ice skating, etc.);

Second, I was a bit annoyed at efforts to sell drinks and other for-pay items. While I don't mind saying 'no'
once, when approached several times it became annoying;

Third, the internet access was a very valuable resource; however, I felt $0.50 per minute was excessive;
and

Fourth, the food in the buffet (the 'Windjammer' and 'Island Grill'), while certainly adequate, was not as
good as it could have been.

A few positives were:

The dining rooms were magnificent. Service was great and the food was quite good;

The entertainment was great! The ice show was well worth seeing (the juggler was outstanding) and
virtually all shows were family-friendly;

The kid's club (ocean adventure) was very, very good. My daughter enjoyed the activities and was
thrilled to stay out to 1:00 a.m. on occasion;

In Ocho Rios, I recommend climbing the Dunn's River Falls. Well worth the charges;

The procedure to check-in and check-out in Miami was superb. Very quick and efficient;

Our cabin had a balcony (many 'standard size' rooms have balconies) and was very enjoyable. I felt our
cabin, while not spacious, used every inch of available space so we were comfortable.

On balance, I recommend the Voyager of the Seas.

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