Mike Gingerich

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
Sailing Date: September 6th, 2002

I just got back from my cruise and wanted to encourage everyone to take a cruise sometime in their lifetime. Service was excellent, people were friendly and everyone looked like they were having a great time. I was not disappointed with any aspect of the cruise we took. There was so much to do that you could not possibly take everything in at one time.

I'm inspired to write this review because I've read others writings before the cruise and want to correct some opinions expressed about the snorkeling at Cococay Island (RC's private island, Bahamas) The snorkeling was absolutely wonderful. There were many fish and species of fish. We say atleast 20 different reef fish. Those that say they could not find fish are those people who should probably not be allowed to find the fish. These are the people who have trampled over the first 200 yards of sea life. The snorkeling area that was roped off was superb. Once you go 100 feet from shore the water becomes undisturbed and extremely clear. Keep an eye out for a few jellyfish though, they make it interesting. The farther you went out the more you saw. In the deeper water 100 yards from the end of the roped in area you say many coral formations. There were many fan coral growths -- fantastic. It was hard to believe that there was still any growth of any kind in the area a! > fter I saw some super inconsiderate people stepping on the bottom in areas where there was sea grass or other living growth. Destruction of ocean habitat ruins life for everyone and thing. I'm not a big environmentalist but I get irked when I see behavior from people that are old enough to know better (50 something). It was a great cruise, I feel privilaged to have been able to go.

I've also read in some of the reviews about hoards of people and bad crowds. I have to say that I do not like crowds at all either. It surprised me that everything went so smoothly. I didn't mind all of the people at all. Eating times were staggered and departures for shore excursions went well. If you aren't a "crowd" person don't let it hinder you from going. The crowd makes the people watching more enjoyable. There truly is something for everyone. I would recommend this cruise without hesitation.