Royal Caribbean International
Explorer of the Seas Cruise Review
Canada

Bill Wilkins
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired
Number of Cruises: 4
Sailing Date: October 12th, 2007

This cruise was our second with Royal Caribbean and fourth overall.  We were quite happy with the experience compared to previous cruises.  Explorer of the Seas literally has something for everyone.  Unfortunately, the New England weather in October did not allow us to take full advantage of all the topside amenities.

Service.   The staff was excellent.  We were lucky to have the best waiter ever and our cabin steward was invisible, but very efficient.  Royal Caribbean conveniently allows passengers to pay recommended tips ($174 total for a couple) to all applicable staff using the Sea Pass credit card.  This avoids the hassle of accumulating and stuffing cash into envelopes on the last night out.  The crew apparently appreciates not having to deposit all the cash into their personal accounts.

Embarkation and debarkation.  This process was extremely efficient, especially for a ship carrying 3,400 passengers.  By moving passengers in smaller groups, processing is done very quickly.  We took Royal Caribbean’s shuttle from Newark Airport to Liberty Cruise Port and back.  While it was a little pricey, it was very convenient.

Shore Excursions.  Royal Caribbean offered a wide variety of tours in the six New England and Canadian ports we visited.  However, options were limited due to the 8:00 AM docking and 6:00 PM sailing times in each port.  The more desirable tours fill up quickly, so book early.  We did pay about a 100% convenience premium for booking the tours through Royal Caribbean vs. on the dock in the port.  However, you need to be careful in choosing a tour from the dock to ensure they will get you back in time for sailing.

Food.  Like any cruise ship, Explorer offered more opportunities to eat than anyone needs.  The dining room offered at least five entrees and portion size was appropriate.  They always offered at least two low calorie entrees, appetizers and desserts for those of us watching our weight.  Food quality was above average, but not exceptional.  The Windjammer Café offers buffet service where people can pile their plates high or simply get a bowl of soup and some fruit.  Don’t pass up the oatmeal raison cookies!  The Promenade Café offers pizza, sandwiches, coffee, tea and cookies around the clock.

Entertainment.  The Explorer offered world class entertainment each night.  Don’t miss the ice show, but you have to pick up the free tickets early as they go fast.  The various lounges and the disco offered music for every taste of listening and dancing pleasure.

 

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