Back from the Explorer 3/13 to 3/20

We arrived in Mia at10: 30AM took a cab directly to the ship. At the pier at a little after 11. There were approx. 50 people in line just inside the building. About 11:30 we went up the escalator and through security. Went right to he Diamond Platinum counter and were processed in5 minutes. Went to the small lounge to wait long enough for a cookie and water when they took us on the ship. Rooms not ready until 1:00 so went to the Windjammer for lunch.

Went to our room Promenade 6293. There have been a lot of questions about the Promenade rooms and I had some myself. Our last cruise we had a balcony and it was great. This time the cost was $800 more for the balcony so we opted for the promenade for $20 more. The room was very nice, no noise with a great view of the promenade. The almost natural light made it seem like an outside view, easy to get around, 1 deck down to the pr. and 2 to the casino. If you can’t do a balcony grab one of these. Just remember to pull the drapes.

Food was real good. Not 5 star but when you think that they are preparing thousands of meals at the same time I think the do a tremendous job. Service in the dining room was efficient if a little hurried. Waiter was friendly but needed to loosen up a bit. Windjammer had a great Varity for breakfast and lunch. Made it to Johnny Rockets twice for lunch and it was a nice change of pace and a lot of fun.

Entertainment was a little below average although we didn’t see all the shows. The production shows were well done. The only time I ever wanted to walk out on a show was this trip when the had an older female singer / comedian who did not do either very well. Her jokes were really dated. Sorry I can’t recall her name. Enjoyed the ice show. The music was terrific the show band, The Sting Rays and the Calypso band were very entertaining as was the piano player in the Schooner bar.

Had a great time in the casino. Hit for $375 on a slot machine the first eve. Not much luck with the slots after that. Spent a lot of time at the crap table after wife went to bed, she was just getting over a bad cold so she turn in before midnight most nights. The dealers were friendly and helpful and they made the game fun. Even the Pit boss joked around a lot. We were sort of late night regulars at the table. Luckily I was able to protect my slot win most nights.

Did not do any tours just bummed around and went to Paradise beach in Cozemel as was recommend by this board had a great time. Got there early and beat the crowd. They canceled or stop in Grand Cayman due to rough water. This was a disappointment as we were supposed to go there for a week last Nov. but had to cancel due to the hurricane damage. Had booked a Stingray City tour.

Ship overall was in good shape a few dirty spots on the carpeting but very clean. It was fully booked with about 700 kids. I was a little apprehensive at first but they were never a problem. The teens were having a ball and I never saw any misbehaving. Actually I was surprised at there good behavior and I was around late most nights. Even talked with some of them and they were just out to have a good time.

Just for information I did bring some alcahol form own use. Brought it on board in my carry on luggage and was never questioned.

Disembarkment was a breeze off the ship and at Mia by 8:15 for a 12:30 flight. Better than being late and rushed.

Overall it was a great trip. 7 days with no rain and 80 degree was what we were looking for. I’ll try to answer any questions anyone has.

Sounds like you had a great time- that's good to hear. I know I have a long wait but am thrilled to be going on the explorer in December. thanks for sharing your trip with us.

I noticed that you said your ship was booking with over 700 kids....is there a website or something that you can go to in order to find this out; or did you find out on the ship; or just approximate this number?

Would love to know for my sailing!

Thanks:rolleyes:

I noticed that you said your ship was booking with over 700 kids....is there a website or something that you can go to in order to find this out; or did you find out on the ship; or just approximate this number?

Would love to know for my sailing!

Thanks:rolleyes:

Interesting question. I doubt highly there is a website that will tell you how many kids are sailing :confused: How did you know there were 700 kids on this cruise?

Just curious.

The Capt. made the statement at one of his talks.