Terri Cramer

Age: 34
Occupation: Medical Secretary
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
Ship: Grandeur of the Seas
Sailing Date: February 1st, 2002
Itinerary: Circle Caribbean

We were very excited about our 10 day cruise. There was added security at the Port of Miami, which we found very comforting. We were very surprised to find that we had been upgraded - although we were still in an inside stateroom with no window. Our room was really cozy, done up in peach colors. There was plenty of storage room for our clothes, as well as our suitcases. Right away we were introduced to our cabin steward who made us feel very much at home. Besides the food which was fabulous, it is the staff that make the trip so enjoyable. Our dining room service was superb!!

Our first port of call was Cozumel, Mexico. We have been to the island once before. We rented a jeep and toured the island. We did some snorkeling - saw a beautiful parrot fish - and also did some shopping.

Our second port was Grand Cayman. Very small, delightful island. We visited Seven Mile Beach and did some body surfing. Great fun!

Next, Jamaica. We were looking forward to our first shore excursion. We had signed up for the Enchanted Gardens and Dunn River Falls tour. This was well worth the money. The enchanted gardens is located in Fern Gully and was very picturesque. There are about 14 natural waterfalls on the property and an orchid garden. Watch out for the parrots though, they bite my husband's finger!! Also note that if you show any interest in the local's merchandise you will be harassed to purchase the item endlessly.

Finally we had a sea day and boy did we need it. Too many early mornings and late nights. We just enjoyed the day by relaxing along the pool. One tip - claim a lounging chair early in the morning as they go quickly.

Our next port of call was Aruba. We did a See and Sea Island Tour. We stopped at the Natural Bridge, Lighthouse, as well as went out on a semi-sub to the Atilles German shipwreck. We were able to enjoy the nightlife in Aruba as we did not leave until 12 midnight. We partied at Carlos and Charlies, along with many of the crew members. Aruba is a desert-like island with the constant tradewinds and very little rain - similar to Arizona. I thoroughly enjoyed this island and it's Dutch history.

Our last stop was the island of Curacao. This is also a Dutch island. Very clean and also very colorful with the pastel colored buildings.

Needless to say, all good things must come to a close. We were very sad to leave the ship. We found the service and staff very pleasant and knowledgeable. For those of you who have not cruised before, do not be afraid to ask for more than one appetizer as well as desserts. The dining room staff do not know the meaning of the word "no". The desserts on the Grandeur are excellent!! On more than one occasion we had two desserts. Do not miss any of the midnight buffets (you may not be able to eat anything) but bring along plenty of film. There is also a casino on board - "giving away money". The ship has many activities during the sea days as well as port days (as there are many people who have seen the islands and just wish to stay on the ship). On the last sea day the bingo jackpot was $5 000 - won by one lucky winner. The evening shows are also first class. We made sure we went to the shows every night. We had everything from comedians to a puppeteer. The shows are as good as Vegas.

We cannot wait to book our next cruise.

Ask a Question About Royal Caribbean Cruises