Rochelle & Michael Spann

Age: 34 & 33
Occupation: Purchasing Coordinator
Number of Cruises: 1
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
Ship: Enchantment of the Sea
Sailing Date: September 18th, 2004
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

FANTASTIC!!!!!!! This was our 1st (and not our last) cruise. We were so excited and a little anxious with all the hurricanes that were affecting Florida and the Caribbean. But our Captain, RCC Staff made it clear that we were completely safe. They were right. We never knew how close Hurricane Jeanne was during our trip. The waters were calm, the weather was sunny and beautiful.

Getting on Board. The smoothest experience ever. Everything was so organized. We never stood in a long line, and they had everything posted which made the entire process effortless. We were on the ship before we knew it. Once we got on board, they let us know that our room was ready and that we could go to the Windjamer for lunch. We were sooooo excited.

The Room. We selected the inside cabin for this trip. Everyone kept telling us how small and cramped the rooms are. We were surpised at the amount of room that we had. It was not as small as we expected. We've showed pictures of our room to friends and family and they were surprised as well. We met another group on the ship that had an Outside Cabin, and they said that they wished they saved the money and had an inside cabin. The Window is really over-rated. If you want to splurge, get a balcony. If not, an inside cabin is the best bang for your buck.

Ports of Call. Our's changed because of the Hurricane's. We were suppose to go to the Cayman Islands, as well as Jamica. The Cayman's was hit pretty bad, so we were diverted to Labadee. Can I say BEAUTIFUL!!!! It was great. It's really Haiti, but it was a private port for RCCL. We had the best time here. We picked the excursion to a private beach. It was about a 20min boat ride with a guide giving you information along the way. But the beach was perfect. It was about 20 of us, and we had our own beach chairs, floating mats and snorkeling gear. They had men on the island serving as bar tender's. It was the best! We had time to relax and enjoy the beach. My hubby got a lot of great pictures while snorkeling. Jamica was okay. We were disappointed because the excursion that we picked did not really allow for much time to shop or take in the local food. We were really rushed. By the time we had a chance to go shopping, we had about 30 min's before it was time to get back on the bus to head for the dock. We really needed more time. Maybe if we had picked a better excursion we could have enjoyed this island better. BTW, Ochios Rio was not affected by the hurricane. It's still a great stop.

Things to Do On-Board. There was always something to do. There were great shows, musicals, games, and dancing on board. The Cruise Director, Matt, was the best. It's true, he does look and act like Mike Myers. But he is great. If for some reason you missed a show or a party, they record some of them and you can watch them in your stateroom at your lesuire. It was really great.

Food and Waiters. The food was great. Our waiters were great. My hubby and I were sad to leave the ship. We were so used to our 3-4 meals a day (with someone else cooking), and being waited on. There were a few days when the waiters dance and sing for you. Great. It's always ineresting listening to 40 different accents singing a song. :)

Heading Home. Getting off the boat was a little more effort. Everything was fine until we hit Customs. The day we were leaving the Agent was a little moody. We purchased liquor in Jamica, and depending on how many bottles you purchase, you may be taxed. They don't tell you that when your buying.

Final Overview. FANTASTIC!!!!!! TWO THUMBS UP!!!!! :) We are Royal Caribbean Groupies now. We are in the process of planning our next cruise!!. :)

Ask a Question About Royal Caribbean Cruises