Todd

Age: 38
Occupation: Executive
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
Ship: Voyager of the Seas
Sailing Date: November 18th, 2001
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

We found the ship to be impressive in size (as promised) and we never felt crowded. There was always plenty to do and see on the ship. The shops, pubs, etc., were great. The shows were good. However, some of the bands in the lounges weren't very good.

We went during the Thanksgiving holiday so there were more children (including our own) than usual - which I'd probably avoid next time around.

The food was plenty (as always), but I would rate the food quality as only fair. Our prior cruise on the Princess line had much higher quality food. Also, dress codes were not enforced. Though most dressed appropriately, many - especially children, did not - some even in t-shirts on formal nights. Boo.

The two small swimming pools (both salt water) topside were ample and there were always deck chairs to be found. There is an adults only pool and spa available as well - deck chairs are much nicer there.

Our stateroom was a suite with a balcony and we found it to be very nice and roomy (as far as cruise ships go). We purchased a second larger suite for our two children and my mother who came with us. That room as twice the size of ours and had a hide-a-bed. Beware, even though the kids liked sleeping on it, the hide-a-bed lacks much in the way of comfort. Both rooms had large outside decks, hair dryers, safes, and refrigerators.

Tip: you can buy beverage stickers for soda pop - $20 gets you all the pop and similar items you want for the entire cruise (great for the kids). There are also alcoholic drink cards available which can save you money as well. Both may be purchased at any bar.

The service was excellent - from the wait staff to the stateroom attendants. However, the front desk (guest relations) was not very friendly and the excursions desk were not very informative.

I would recommend booking some, if not all your excursions via the internet before you travel. Some of the more popular excursions fill up quickly and my not be available by the time you sail.

Labadee (their private island) was good. Don't worry about renting the floating mats before you go, there are plenty to be had there. This is a good day to swim in the ocean and relax. Lunch is served on the island so no need to go back to the ship. Note: Don't plan to snorkel there - nothing to see.

Jamaica: Very poor snorkeling here as well - they over-fish. Shop keepers are very pushy. This may be a good day to spend on-board at the pool or exploring this ship.

Grand Cayman: One of the best places in the world for snorkeling/diving. Seven mile beach is a wonderful place to visit - pure white sand. The island/town is great (a bit on the expensive side).

Cozumel: FANTASIC!! One of the top 3 snorkel/dive places in all the world - crystal clear warm waters with loads of fish, coral, plants - GREAT. We took a snorkel excursion and had a ball. I don't recall the name but it began from a private beach area - the crew was great and it was a nice place to just hang out afterwards. We used the afternoon to shop and had a wonderful time. Cozumel is a great spot.

Overall I'd give the cruise 4 out of five stars. The ship is amazing and the cruise line is very organized. One last tip: Give yourself about 2 hours to get off the ship - customs is slow now. White tags leave the ship first, followed by orange. Make sure you get in the white group to leave the ship if you have an early flight out on Sunday. Don't book any flight earlier than 10:00 am.

Ask a Question About Royal Caribbean Cruises

Ever thought about becoming a home based travel agent? Check out my web site for home based travel and cruise agents located at;

Home Based Travel Agent