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Vincent & Mary Finelli
Age: 69
Occupation: Retired Professor
Number of Cruises: 49
Cruise Line: RCI
Ship: Voyager of the Seas
Sailing Date: January 22nd, 2005
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean
Royal Caribbean International (RCI) Voyager of the Seas, built in 1999, sailed
from the Kvaerner Masa Ship Yard in Turku, Finland as the largest cruise ship
afloat. The Voyager and her sister ships, the Explorer, Adventure, Navigator and
Mariner jointly held this honored title until the Queen Mary II arrived in
January 2004. Now RCI will reclaim the title in May 2006 when the first of the
new "Ultra Voyager Class" comes on line as the Freedom of the Seas at 160,000
gross tons. It's hard to believe that such large ships will soon be almost
common place.
In just five years, all five Voyager Class ships have been completed and are now
amazing cruisers on a weekly basis. Of course, boarding a vessel with such
dimensions of 142,000 gross tonnage, 1,021 feet in length, a beam of 157.5 feet,
with a draft of only 29 feet and a cruising speed of 22 knots will never seem
"common place." However, to the 3,114 (double occupancy) passengers who weekly
sail aboard the Voyager, or anyone of her sister ships, it still remains an
extraordinary sea going experience. The Voyager was appropriately christened by
figure skating star Katerina Witt (twice Olympic gold), since it is the first
ship with an ice-skating rink. Other innovative highlights of these ships are
the rock climbing wall, the in-line skating track, a sports court for volleyball
or basketball and most impressive is the inside four deck high Royal Promenade,
stretching like a city block between the forward and aft Centrums, lined with
shops, bars and a cafe`, here cruisers can stroll, watch jugglers or a parade,
enjoy an ice cream, coffee or beer seated in the pub.
Her size and amenities made her first Captain Svein Pettersen dub her "A city at
sea." When we first sailed on her in January 2000, Captain Nyseter was equally
in awe of the Voyager. Her present Captain Erik Tengelsen is also enamored of
this "Grand Dowager" the Voyager of the Seas. Captain Tengelsen of Oslo, Norway
is one of those "pure" sailors who worked his way up through the ranks and
possesses a deep knowledge of both ships and sea ports of the world. His pride
in the Voyager is evident in his discussions of the latest naval engineering
features such as the advanced navigation technology and the Azipods which allow
sideways maneuverability of these "behemoths." Tengelsen is both a scholar of
ships and a fine gentleman captain: Throughout this cruise we heard many
compliments on the ship's smooth sailing, which he casually attributed to her
size. However, we know he is an excellent Master.
EMBARKATION
A Saturday or Sunday departure from Miami is a Godsend, since traffic is
minimal. We arrived at the Port of Miami at noon and as Crown & Anchor Diamond
members had priority check-in and were on board by 12:30pm. We heard passengers
lamenting about late boarding; however, the boarding time listed on the cruise
schedule is 2:00pm; therefore, most passengers actually boarded early. Repeat
cruisers on RCI will enjoy the many benefits of the Crown & Anchor Society
(depending on the membership level) : Priority boarding and debarkation,
valuable coupons for drinks, souvenirs, Bingo and Casino, discounts at the
Health Spa and shops, the use of the Concierge Lounge, upgrades and private
cocktail parties, etc. These can all be explained by the Loyalty Ambassadors on
board. We met with L.A. Ruth Ranola an energetic and upbeat lady, who answered
our many questions about future cruises.
THE SHIP
The Voyager is in excellent condition and has held up well under a weekly
onslaught of between 3000 to 3500 passengers. Now in her sixth year, there are
only minor vestiges of wear and tear, mostly in upholstery and carpeting. Though
not as pristine as when we first sailed on her, she is still elegant with some
patina! Hotel Director Richard Nentwich, Food & Beverage Manager Michael Ochmann
and Marketing & Revenue Manager Michael Gillespie, run a smooth ship: A ship
which displays art worth over $12 million.
Deck 1. It holds the Medical Facilities and Tender Stations.
Deck 2. It has the Conference Center forward and staterooms midship.
Deck 3. The Carmen Dining Room is located aft. This is a three tier gold and
white operatic theme restaurant, with an extraordinary Kalmar Austrian Crystal
Chandelier as the focal point. Next is the Art and Photo Gallery, with a fine
collection of celebrity photos including those by renown photographers such as
Stern, Ritts, D'Orazio, and Rolston. The base of Larry Kirkland's Centrum Mobile
"The Dancer & the Tutu" is located here. Entrances to Studio B, and the Ice
Center are midship, near a display of several antique radios (Crosley and
Atwater Kent) depicting a history of broadcasting. Also here is the Vault
Nightclub with all chrome and steel walls evoking the image of a bank vault
minimally decorated with primary colors. Forward is the entrance to the main
level of La Scala Theatre.
Deck 4. Aft is La Boheme dining Room, then the Aquarium Bar with its walls of
natural coral and a fine collection of tropical fish. This is a nice relaxing
place to sit. Midship is the the Casino Royale featuring a stylized dancer in
Top Hat & Tails and a Flapper from the Roaring Twenties and songs of the same
period: "High Society," "Stepping Out," "Putting on the Ritz," and "Ain't We got
Fun." Then there is the upper level of the Vault with its palm print entrance
panel. Nearby is the Schooner Bar with its naval memorabilia and its smell of
creosote soaked ropes. Forward is the entrance to the balcony of the five deck
tall La Scala Theatre. It has very comfortable rose colored seats, several
poles, but still with an excellent view of the stage from most seats. Its beauty
lies in its simplicity and dramatic crystal beaded geometric curtain. Near the
entrance is Lorenzini's "Soubrette Fin di Siecle" a la Streisand in "Hello
Dolly." It is a larger than life wooden marionette, a nice touch.
Deck 5. Here is the Royal Promenade, a concept which distinguishes the Voyager
Class from all others. Its four deck height allows for inside cabins to have
windows overlooking a beautiful street scene: punctuated throughout the cruise
with parades, strolling musicians and comedic actors. Voyager's "Over the
Centuries" theme can be seen here in the eclectic art work representing many
centuries and cultures. At one end of the Promenade is Cleopatra's Needle (a
copy of the famous Egyptian Obelisk now in London). Beyond the obelisk is a
vestibule lined with huge Pharaoh statues and other Egyptian artifacts. The art
representing many centuries from ancient to modern --- leads passengers on a
veritable voyage through time. An eye catcher on the Promenade is an antique red
Morgan roadster (donated by RCI's CEO Richard D. Fain). A one week cruise is not
enough to see and admire it all.
The Royal Promenade has the Cafe` Promenade (serving Seattle's Best Coffee and
Ben & Jerry's ice cream), a real pub "Pig and Whistle," a General Store, Logo
Shops, Perfume and Jewelry Shops, the Champagne Bar, the Scoreboard Bar and a
cigar Connoisseur Club (go out the back door for access to the Forward
Observation Point & Helicopter Pad). Also on Deck 5 are the Guest Relations and
Tour Desks. Each end of the Promenade has an atrium (Centrum) and sets of
elevators. All the way aft is the top balcony of the Dining Room --- The Magic
Flute. Here is the best view of the fantastic chandelier --- from above the
delicate chains of crystals and its golden illumination are more fully
appreciated.
Deck 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are mostly staterooms. On Deck 6, adjacent to the rear
elevators, are the Business Services and the Loyalty Ambassador's desk. On Deck
7 in the same area is the Library. On Deck 8 is the Online Computer Services. On
Deck 9 is the Concierge Club overseen by the very capable Teresa Jamieson with
amenities and services for passengers in suites and Crown & Anchor Diamond
members. Deck 10 forward is the Bridge.
Deck 11. Aft is the entrance to the Windjammer Cafe` (Buffet dining) where Chris
Manley's carved wooden birds are displayed: The anhinga is stunning. Here are
also the upscale restaurant Portofino and the Island Grill. Midship is the area
with the main swimming pools and whirlpools, Pool Bar and deck chairs. Then
there is the Solarium with a swimming pool and 2 large whirlpools (Vincent's
favorite) beautifully decorated with replicas of famous Greek and Roman statues
and mosaics. Forward is the Spa and the Shipshape Fitness Center.
Deck 12. Aft is Adventure Beach, dedicated to children activities, with a kids'
pool and play area. Next is the Ocean Club with video arcade and games and then
there is the Teen Disco Optix. Here is also the popular Johnny Rockets 50's
diner, with naugahyde booths and jukebox, serving great hamburgers, crunchy
fries and delicious milk shakes, a nice trip to "memory lane" for some of us.
Midship is the jogging track and deck chairs and forward is the upper level of
the Spa and Fitness Center.
Decks 13. This deck is dedicated to outdoor activities: a sports court for
basketball or volleyball, a 9-hole mini golf course and the rock climbing wall.
Deck 14. Here are the Crow's Nest Observatory, the Viking Crown and Cloud Nine
Lounges, the 19th Hole Bar and the Seven Hearts card room. All with a beautiful
surrounding view of the pool deck and ocean.
Deck 15. On top of everything is the Skylight Chapel. Quite a lot to see and do
for all ages!
CABIN
Cabin 7600 is wheelchair accessible and one which we have occupied on all of the
Voyager Class ships several times. When entering on the right there are two
large armoires with shelves. Then, there is a king size bed with a turquoise
suede head board and two night stands with reading lamps. When entering on the
right there is the huge tiled bathroom with sink and medicine cabinet located in
the corner --- a 5'x5' shower with safety rails nicely placed. There is a sofa,
a large coffee table, a TV, refrigerator and finally a desk/vanity. The far wall
is all glassed and the balcony holds two lounge chairs and a table. The steward,
Wayne McDuffus, took care of everything when we were out, yet, was handy
whenever we called. What more can passengers ask for; he was pleasant, polite
and very efficient.
FOOD & SERVICE
Under Maitre D' Maurizio Curcio there is a wonderful dining atmosphere. The pace
of the service is neither too rushed or too slow. Food preparation is directed
by Executive Chef Danilo Austero and his 130 chefs: fresh, well executed and
nicely plated. A variety of offerings allows for every palate to be pleased.
They prepare over 16,000 meals and snacks daily. Our table for four in the Magic
Flute Dining Room was aptly served by the Waiter Dino La Cayo and his assistant
Diosdado Langress under Head Waiter Cetin Bolat. All were excellent.
The Luncheon Menu in the dining room is fixed for every day; the only part that
changes is the special which consists of an appetizer, an entree and a dessert.
There is also a pasta buffet where individual specialties are made on order
(i.e.. garlic, shrimp, marinara, etc.) There is great food everywhere onboard
and room service was superb. Each morning breakfast in the cabin was on time and
piping hot. There is an average wait of 45 minutes for room service, after all
this is a huge ship with thousands of passengers.
We spent our 36th Wedding Anniversary Dinner at Captain Tengelsen's table. It
was a memorable meal presented by the Maitre D' Maurizio: San Padre crab cakes,
New England clam chowder (this was excellent), mixed California greens salad,
and the entrees were superb. Mary had the Seafood Pasta Aragosta (fettuccine
with lobster, sea scallops and prawns in a creamy sauce) which she enjoyed very
much; Vincent had the Filet Mignon Madagascar, which he declared perfectly done.
Our friendly Captain pronounced the dessert a hit (a delicate chocolate basket
filled with wild berries and mousse).
Great company, great food and then the perfect ending to the evening was the
show in La Scala Theatre featuring the international celebrity Charo (more on
her later). Back to food, there are specialty restaurants offered for an
additional charge: The Johnny Rockets, 50's style diner ($3.95pp) and the
Portofino, upscale restaurant, reservation recommended ($20pp).
ENTERTAINMENT
Cruise Director Becky Thomson is gorgeous and upbeat. We first met her when she
was part of the start-up team of Voyager. RCI offers a greater variety of
entertainment and activities than any other line: the Ice Skating Rink, Rock
Climbing wall, a full basketball court, golf, shuffleboard, ping pong, swimming,
Ship Shape Fitness Center and Spa. There is also the Casino Royale, Trivia,
Bingo, etc. There are the nightly shows; this cruise Charo brought the audience
to its feet by singing beautiful songs, telling hilarious jokes and, most of
all, with her classical guitar playing for which she has won many international
acclaims and awards. She was a student of Segovia and played with the Xavier
Cugat band. She did an exquisite performance of Ravel's Bolero and Malaguena.
She is beautiful, funny and a consummate performer. Another highlight of this
cruise was RCI "Ice Jammin" a live ice skating show with Olympic level
performances by an international cast. Our favorite skater was Nikki from
Canada. Previously RCI passed out programs listing both performers and musical
pieces; we missed the playlets. This program was sensational and the skaters
were wonderful. Entertainment on board was terrific.
PORTS OF CALL
Due to Vincent's limited mobility and to the fact that we have visited these
ports many times before, we did not take any shore excursions. Thus we refer the
readers for information on these ports to our other reviews.
Day 1. Miami, Florida Departure 5:00pm
Day 2. Nassau, Bahamas Arrive 7:00am Departure 1:00pm
Day 3. At Sea
Day 4. Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas Arrive 7:00am Departure 5:00pm
Day 5. San Juan, Puerto Rico Arrive 7:00am Departure 2:00pm
Day 6. Labadee, Haiti Arrive 8:00am Departure 4:00pm
Day 7. At Sea
Day 8. Miami, Florida Arrive 8:30am
CONCLUSION
We had cruised on the Voyager five years ago, in January 2000, and were amazed
by the immense dimensions of this "giga" ship and, most of all, by the many
innovative features first seen at sea. Since then we have cruised on all the
Voyager Class ships, thus it is sort of deja` vu; however, now we spend more
time going around and admiring the individual pieces of artwork which decorate
the various areas of these ships. It is like visiting a museum. Each day we tour
different areas, take the time to enjoy the interesting sights, learn something
new, and .... "smell the roses!" (as the old saying goes).
We are addicted to cruising. This was our 49th cruise and our 24th on RCI ships,
thus it is evident that RCI is one of our favorite cruise lines. The main reason
is that the perks and benefits offered to the members of the Crown & Anchor
Society are substantial, especially to those repeaters who have achieved the
Platinum and Diamond levels. We are looking forward to sailing on the Radiance,
in March, which will be our 25th RCI cruise giving us the Diamond Plus status
with more benefits and a greater chance of an upgrade. Happy Cruising!
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