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Royal Caribbean International
Serenade of the Seas Cruise Review
San Diego to Cabo San Lucas

Robert Tafe
Age: 48
Occupation: Self-Employed
Number of Cruises: approx. 10
Sailing Date: October 16th, 2006

The Serenade of the Seas was a wonderful cruise experience. The highlights that stand out are; gold member benefits (2+ cruises on Royal Caribbean) of useable coupons like internet credit of $5 per person, 2 for 1 drink coupons (1 per person), and a very nice complimentary picture frame per person.

Being avid cruisers, our stateroom was nicely upgraded. The Solarium pool area was the most beautiful I have ever seen, with a jungle of exotic plants (high quality silk), calming bird and water sounds, and a retractable roof. The buffet food was very good with no lines and ample and varied nearby seating. The desserts stood out. In addition, lemonade, ice cream and cookies are available in the buffet (not so on some cruise lines). The Shore excursion tenders are the BEST I’VE EVER SEEN with UPPER OPEN DECK SEATING, and a more open airy interior, and they are very large (way above the usual dank stuffy hot small tender). The disco dancing area was very large and has an open feeling, with loud modern music on the dance floor and lots of sitting areas moving away from the loud music for chatting and a wonderful view (not small, or stuffy, or tucked away in the interior, like many others). The cigarette smoke was the least I've ever noticed on a cruise ship, with most areas off limits to smoking. The Guest services office was well staffed with no lines, and they immediately made me lots of small change for use ashore (not so on other lines). The water pressure in the shower was strong and the water was immediately warm and consistent.

The ship was very stable and quiet. These are both big items, A STABLE AND QUIET SHIP! The "Reflections" main dining room was worthy of mention. We once arrived 10 minutes late for breakfast... No Problem! The lobster and Escargot' entrees were the best I've ever had. The gymnasium was nicely separated from the spa, and the equipment was newer, good quality, and ample. A final mention to the on board Cell Phone service tied to Cingular, and many internet stations and wireless hot spots!
Thanks Royal Caribbean!