lawsoncd3 Posted October 17, 2006 #1 Share Posted October 17, 2006 Hi everyone: We just returned from the Rhapsody on October 8. (We were on the 10-1-06) sailing. Now that I'm home, I want to start planning our next cruise. We want to sail on the Monarch, due largely because we can drive to the port instead of flying. What can y'all tell me about the Monarch? What's the entertainment, food, staff, cabin accomodations, and excursions like? The service on the Rhapsody was super. I've heard the Monarch is a party ship. True? Any feedback or links to pics would be appreciated. Thanks!! Dona :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bruin Steve Posted October 17, 2006 #2 Share Posted October 17, 2006 Dona, First, from my experience, most "short" cruises tend to take on that "party" atmosphere...Ususally a good portion of the crowd is on there just because it's cheap...The ports are not of great interest to serious cruisers...This is especially true of the 3-night weekend cruises...they only visit Ensenada and have an "at sea" day...and most of these folks have the weekend off from work anyway...The 4-nighters are a little better... That said, I have taken a few of them...largely because it is cheap, a very short drive to port and we have the weekends off anyway...andwe are there mainly to relax, not to "party"...IOW, there are all sorts on the ship... And that said, here's my quick take on the Monarch... It's an older ship, but recently enough rehabbed that it's in very nice shape... It doesn't have all of the newfangled amenities of the newer ships, but for a short cruise, it definitely has enough--at least it has all of the staples... The cabins are the SMALLEST I've ever seen on any ship...but they're okay enough for sleeping and changing clothes--assuming that's about all you do in them... The schedule is pretty jam-packed with activities and entertainment...The food and service is what we've come to expect with RCCL...certainly well worth the money... If it were our "big vacation of the year", we might find it a little disappointing (Ensenada, Catalina and San Diego are no great exotic paradises), but for that quick, easy, inexpensive getaway, it's really tough to beat... For that reason, I don't recommend it to folks who have to spend a lot of money and fly a long way to get here...but, for those of us with a short drive to port, I highly recommend it as a great relaxing getaway... If I had the time, though, I might also consider taking one of the 7-nighters out of LA to the Mexican Riviera--the ships are a little nicer and the ports far more interesting... Good luck... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
westcoastvecs Posted October 17, 2006 #3 Share Posted October 17, 2006 The Monarch is a lot of fun. A lot of 21st birthday celebrations, bachelor/bachelorette parties, etc. Older, of course, very small cabins-but the food and entertainment are excellent-(can't miss Dueling Pianos!) Catalina, and San Diego are great-been to Ensenada enough so we would treat that as a sea day. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wrp96 Posted October 17, 2006 #4 Share Posted October 17, 2006 Monarch has one of the friendliest crews in the RCCL fleet, if not the friendliest. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ronandannette Posted October 17, 2006 #5 Share Posted October 17, 2006 All due respect to the previous posters, we know MANY people from our neck of the woods (selves included) that have chosen the Monarch and totally consider it to be a satisfying, well-rounded cruise vacation. This is especially true if a) you've never spent a lot of time in So. Cal b) have not experienced too many cruises and c) live in a land-locked area. San Diego has tons of things to do - theme parks, attractions, water sports, world class golf, sightseeing - all easy to set up either through a RCCL excursion or on your own. The biggest challenge is choosing due to the limited port time. Catalina is quite a unique place - perfect for sightseeing, interesting shopping and time spent at a sidewalk cafe or patio bar. Deride Ensenada all you will, it IS still authentically Mexican and offers beautiful sea side ambience if you tour La Bufadora or golf at Bajamar. The ship its' self is every bit as nice and as "cruisy" as any it's size; atrium and lounges are more elegant than glitzy. Realistically, not too many ships have surf parks, bunjee trampolines, ice rinks or golf courses. On a port intensive itinerary you probably wouldn't have time to use them anyway. We're just back from the Mariner and while we did enjoy the extra recreational facilities, I promise you the dining room food, main pools, spa and showroom entertainment were every bit as good on the Monarch. The Windjammer, Viking Crown Lounge and Adventure Ocean are vastly superior on the Monarch and her happy, friendly, hospitable staff and crew is beyond compare. In fact, I blame the wonderful service on the Monarch for our dissatisfaction with the Mariner:D . Bruin Steve does have a point about the 7 day Mexical Riviera, but that's an entirely different experience. I don't think you need to only pick one or the other. God bless my dear little Monarch - her 4 day itinerary surely is a fine choice for a stand alone vacation. Happy Sails, Annette P.S. lawsoncd3 - what did you think of the Western Carib? Glad we did it, don't ever see us doing it again. I'd like to hear your opinions. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spotcat Posted October 17, 2006 #6 Share Posted October 17, 2006 We got off of the Monarch yesterday morning, our first cruise. We decided to try a short cruise to see if we would like it. There were twelve of us, ten new to cruising. We loved it! The ship looked huge to the newbies in the group. We can't wait to try a longer cruise on a larger ship. The Monarch looked clean and well maintained. The staterooms are small, but just fine for two people. The service was excellent. Our cabin steward, Marlon, can come home with us anytime! Our waiter, Igor, and assistant waiter, Mary, were also wonderful. We felt welcomed and pampered by the entire staff. The breakfast in Windjammer was standard buffet food, nothing special. Good sushi in Jade, very reasonably priced. All meals in the dining room were very good to excellent. We are all from SoCal and have been to Ensenada quite a few times. Half of our group went into town, half stayed on the ship. We all enjoyed the entertainment at night. There were plenty of choices. We met in the Crown Viking every day at 4:30, Compass in hand, to plan our evening. Would I do this cruise again? Definitely! We are already planning our Caribbean cruise and have agreed to make a short cruise on Monarch a yearly reunion. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dougp26364 Posted October 17, 2006 #7 Share Posted October 17, 2006 We sailed Monarch once as we didn't have a lot of time off, we had FF miles to burn and it sounded like a decent winter getaway from the Midwest. First, while it's an older ship, I believe it's about the same tonage as the Vision class ships. Older does not equate to smaller. It is not as well laid out as the Vision class ships. A little more difficult to get around on IMO. The centrum Elevators only cover 4 or 5 floors. The Windjammer is two levels instead of one. Jade Sushi bar was a nice extra not found on other ships (it's a true extra cost restaurant). The dining rooms are not open to both floors. There's on one floor and one on another floor (above and below each other). The lower ceiling make it feel more closed in IMO rather than open and airy. Bolero's is done better on the Monarch than on any of the other ships IMO. Not much of a sports deck but, about as well as on the Vision class ships. No Solarium indoor pool. And most importantly, as mentioned above TINY TINY TINY cabins. Food is very subjective but, on our cruise, RCI was missing the mark. Chefs and gally crews change ships on a regular basis so you never know if it will be one of RCI's best or just adaquate. Recent reports are more favorable than during the time we sailed Monarch. I was not a big fan of the layout of the Windjammer but, I'm not a big fan of the Windjammer layout on Vision class ships either. For a short cruise it's a very nice ship. We'll maintained and kept clean. I would not take a cabin smaller than an SO catagory as we do spend time in our cabin. I would not fly across country to sail on Monarch again and I doubt that I would ever get off the ship again in Ensenada. But, if I lived within driving distance and I had a little extra cash, I'd sail Monarch again. Just to have a weekend of being taken care of by the ships staff and relaxing without a care in the world for a couple of days. I have pics of the Monarch and our SO cabin at the link in my signature below if it would help you to see the ship and our cabin layout. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sharpie13 Posted October 17, 2006 #8 Share Posted October 17, 2006 The first thing anyone will tell you is that the Monarch is older but well maintained. DW I have done the 4-day cruise three times now and and had a blast each time. Its true the cabins are smaller than most modern ships and it is well worth the upgrade to a superior oceanview. The food is good throughout the ship and the dining room staff is eager to please. Service in general is good throughout the ship. We've cruised under two different Cruise Directors, Marc Warner twice and most recently, Johnny O. Both did a great job in maintaining the large number of activities and entertainment for which RCI is famous. I really appreciated the personal touch each CD instills on each cruise. Johnny O not only was present at the shows each day, but personally greeted each guest each morning as we went ashore for each day's activities. Its nice when each guest has a chance to talk and share feedback with such a busy member of the ship's crew each and every day. For me that is part of the charm of a smaller ship, the crew has time to be so much friendlier. Be sure to see the Dueling Pianos show in Boleros if you chose the Monarch, it will be a memorable experience. Another proud member of the Monarch Fan club :cool: __________________ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rvrgirl Posted October 17, 2006 #9 Share Posted October 17, 2006 -(can't miss Dueling Pianos!) Ahh the dueling pianos.............the best!!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
love2relax Posted October 18, 2006 #10 Share Posted October 18, 2006 I agree with the previous posters! The Monarch is a great value vacation. I have sailed her twice for the four day cruise with my father. While there were always a few partiers, we also found quiet spots to enjoy ourselves. We love the service, and on our last cruise had the best Head Waiter and Cabin Steward that we have had on any cruise. The cabins are TINY. The only smaller cabin's bathroom was on NCL's Pride of America...but it's acceptable. First cruise, we sailed in an SO. Last time we booked a Junior Suite: MUCH nicer...the cheapest way to get a balcony on this ship. A balcony is important to us, but the smaller cabin would be acceptable if you're going to be out and about on the ship. Go for it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruzr4vr Posted October 18, 2006 #11 Share Posted October 18, 2006 We've been on the Monarch several times and are planning a New Year's Eve Cruise this year (it's 5 nights). We enjoy the larger ships alot but the Monarch is a nice change of pace. It is a party ship - people want to get away for the weekend or a few days during the week to relax and party. The cabins are teeny, tiny but who cares - you're not in the cabin that much anyway. The staff is one of the friendliest I've seen on any ship. We enjoy the going on the short cruises for several reasons 1. the port is close to home 2. you get a lot of "bang for the buck" 3. its definitely cheaper then going to Vegas for the same amount of time. Have a great time if you decide to go. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lawsoncd3 Posted October 18, 2006 Author #12 Share Posted October 18, 2006 Thank you all for your honest opinions and reports! I know I can count on my CC buddies to give me the scoop when I need it. Bruin Steve: I would agree with you as far as I specifically like 7 days or longer, but... DH and I are planning our 10 anniversary to the Mediterranian cruise and I am two credits shy of Plantinum... so, small cruises to get us to 2009 so I can have my plantnum status. LOL.. Ronandannette: We absolutely loved the Rhapsody on our 7 night to the WC. I would recommend this cruise, before she leaves of course for Asia, to anyone who could get there. Being in Las Vegas, we didn't want to fly again (I ruptured my eardrum on our cruise two weeks ago and don't want to that until I get my surgery now!) Anyway, the ports were great. I did reviews (you can click on the links below to read it). Jamaica was a bit to pushy for me, as you will see on my review under excursions, but still found it fun and interesting. I can't even say which port was my favorite, because I enjoyed each of them in different ways. I will certaintly look into SO cabin, thanks for the heads' up. I sailed on the Viking Serenade 10 years ago when it went to Ensenada (Monarch replaced it I'm assuming) and did enjoy the blow hole! This time though, we want to do the wine country. Something different, you know. The Serenade looked huge to me when I first saw her so many years ago, and now, (did a Google search) and she looked small. LOL. Again, thanks to everyone who responded. We're planning on Monarch in September. Bruin Steve: Where is the best place to park in San Pedro? When I was there on the Serenade, parking was right by the pier, but again, I'm assuming that things have changed in the past 10 years. Doug: Thanks for the link to the pics! SpotCat: Thanks for giving me your first time experience. Did you wait at the table at home for 30 minutes until you realized no one was there to serve you! LOL. I'm still in post cruise saddness. This time two weeks ago, I was on my second sea day and getting close to Jamaica. Time flies, especially on a cruise! Happy cruising whereever you are! Dona :) http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=21995 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wrp96 Posted October 18, 2006 #13 Share Posted October 18, 2006 I will certaintly look into SO cabin, thanks for the heads' up. I sailed on the Viking Serenade 10 years ago when it went to Ensenada (Monarch replaced it I'm assuming) and did enjoy the blow hole! This time though, we want to do the wine country. Something different, you know. The winery tour was definitely worth it. A very fun and enjoyable day. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mohavemommy Posted October 18, 2006 #14 Share Posted October 18, 2006 Where is the best place to park in San Pedro? When I was there on the Serenade, parking was right by the pier, but again, I'm assuming that things have changed in the past 10 years. The parking is still at the pier. My pics from the Monarch are below as well as the 4 day compasses. I should post more of them as I have been on the Monarch 3 times in the last 1 1/2 years. :D http://travel.webshots.com/album/319180455IlUMYt Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lawsoncd3 Posted October 22, 2006 Author #15 Share Posted October 22, 2006 Mohavemommy: Thanks for the pics. What cabin category did you have? Question for Monarch veterans on 4 night cruises: do you remember if they offered the cocktail seminar? Thanks for the feedback. D :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mohavemommy Posted October 22, 2006 #16 Share Posted October 22, 2006 These were deck 8 oceanview cabins. I believe they are category "I" now as they recently changed. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
realent Posted October 22, 2006 #17 Share Posted October 22, 2006 Thank you all for your honest opinions and reports! I know I can count on my CC buddies to give me the scoop when I need it. Bruin Steve: I would agree with you as far as I specifically like 7 days or longer, but... DH and I are planning our 10 anniversary to the Mediterranian cruise and I am two credits shy of Plantinum... so, small cruises to get us to 2009 so I can have my plantnum status. LOL.. Ronandannette: We absolutely loved the Rhapsody on our 7 night to the WC. I would recommend this cruise, before she leaves of course for Asia, to anyone who could get there. Being in Las Vegas, we didn't want to fly again (I ruptured my eardrum on our cruise two weeks ago and don't want to that until I get my surgery now!) Anyway, the ports were great. I did reviews (you can click on the links below to read it). Jamaica was a bit to pushy for me, as you will see on my review under excursions, but still found it fun and interesting. I can't even say which port was my favorite, because I enjoyed each of them in different ways. I will certaintly look into SO cabin, thanks for the heads' up. I sailed on the Viking Serenade 10 years ago when it went to Ensenada (Monarch replaced it I'm assuming) and did enjoy the blow hole! This time though, we want to do the wine country. Something different, you know. The Serenade looked huge to me when I first saw her so many years ago, and now, (did a Google search) and she looked small. LOL. Again, thanks to everyone who responded. We're planning on Monarch in September. Bruin Steve: Where is the best place to park in San Pedro? When I was there on the Serenade, parking was right by the pier, but again, I'm assuming that things have changed in the past 10 years. Doug: Thanks for the link to the pics! SpotCat: Thanks for giving me your first time experience. Did you wait at the table at home for 30 minutes until you realized no one was there to serve you! LOL. I'm still in post cruise saddness. This time two weeks ago, I was on my second sea day and getting close to Jamaica. Time flies, especially on a cruise! Happy cruising whereever you are! Dona :) http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=21995 Dona, As you can see from our signiture we are Monarch junkies! and I am happy to say that not only are we addicted but have gotten our best friends and family, (including kids) addicted. No 1 thing for you to know is book a Jr Suite (balcony) on deck 10 and get 2 cruise credits fast to get you to platinum! Both are worth it! We love the staff on board. All are very eager to please, well trained and love the Monarch as well. Will all the frequent sailors, they know who their friends are! There is lots to do onboard for people of all ages and interests. Go, have a wonderful time and let us all know your feedback...:cool: Oh, she has all new beds and bedding now....mmmmmmmmmmmmm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lawsoncd3 Posted October 23, 2006 Author #18 Share Posted October 23, 2006 Thanks Joe and Nancy for the advice. I'll look into a JS, but at this point (cost wise) it's double than a cat. I cabin. Although bigger and balcony, we just got off the Rhapsody (our first balcony :)) and the budget isn't there yet... we're saving for a GS for our Med. cruise. It's all a surprise for DH's birthday, and I'm just about to pop if I don't tell someone! Does anyone remember what the prices were for parking? New bedding!! WOW. Can't wait. Dona :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
realent Posted October 23, 2006 #19 Share Posted October 23, 2006 Thanks Joe and Nancy for the advice. I'll look into a JS, but at this point (cost wise) it's double than a cat. I cabin. Although bigger and balcony, we just got off the Rhapsody (our first balcony :)) and the budget isn't there yet... we're saving for a GS for our Med. cruise. It's all a surprise for DH's birthday, and I'm just about to pop if I don't tell someone! Does anyone remember what the prices were for parking? New bedding!! WOW. Can't wait. Dona :) You are welcome! and a GS...WOW! I want to see pictures...That sounds awesome. Good luck on the suprise. You will love the Monarch in an *I* as well. I think parking is between 10-15 dollars...We usually take groups in limo's....:D LA TI DA....LOL Make sure you call back after you become platinum to get your discount and check the C & A coupons online. That can pay off. When are you going to the med? We are thinking of going for our 25th in 2008.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spotcat Posted October 23, 2006 #20 Share Posted October 23, 2006 The service on Monarch is hard to beat. I love being treated well and show my appreciation when it's time to give an appropriate gratuity. I live in a smallish tourist town and LOVE my favorite restaurants. Do I miss having a napkin placed in my lap? Not when I am welcomed to a cozy spot and given a stellar buy on Rombauer chardonnay. :D Can't wait to try a longer cruise! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Happy ks Posted October 23, 2006 #21 Share Posted October 23, 2006 The last time we parked in the lot, it was $12 a day. Here is a link to the World Cruise Center, the price is the same, you may want to check before you go to see if it is still current: http://www.sanpedro.com/spcom/crusshp.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruisePRN Posted October 23, 2006 #22 Share Posted October 23, 2006 I'm sailing on the Monarch in two weeks. I've been on her 4 night cruises many times but never a week end cruise so this will be a first. I just got off the Constellation last week where we did a 12 day Canada/New England. I find the service to be just as good on the Monarch as the longer cruises. You can't beat the price for a short get away. Dona, where in Vegas are you? I'm in the SW Karyn Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lawsoncd3 Posted November 12, 2006 Author #23 Share Posted November 12, 2006 You are welcome! and a GS...WOW! I want to see pictures...That sounds awesome. Good luck on the suprise. You will love the Monarch in an *I* as well. I think parking is between 10-15 dollars...We usually take groups in limo's....:D LA TI DA....LOL Make sure you call back after you become platinum to get your discount and check the C & A coupons online. That can pay off. When are you going to the med? We are thinking of going for our 25th in 2008.... Hi Nancy and Joe: We're planning the Med. cruise for Oct. 2009. Some time yet. LOL. I have finished the booking for the Monarch. DS is also coming (just did his booking as well) and will surprise dad on the ship. (Well, we're hoping, he's 19 and I need to book him in at the pier... which may mean to revamp the surprise part). When was the last time you sailed Monarch? Right now I'm confused about the early/late dining times... sail away is at 5:30 and so is first diner. Hmmm... the TA has made arraingments for a birthday cake to be delivered to DH on the first night since that's his actual birthday... :) Dona :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
realent Posted November 12, 2006 #24 Share Posted November 12, 2006 Hi Nancy and Joe:We're planning the Med. cruise for Oct. 2009. Some time yet. LOL. I have finished the booking for the Monarch. DS is also coming (just did his booking as well) and will surprise dad on the ship. (Well, we're hoping, he's 19 and I need to book him in at the pier... which may mean to revamp the surprise part). When was the last time you sailed Monarch? Right now I'm confused about the early/late dining times... sail away is at 5:30 and so is first diner. Hmmm... the TA has made arraingments for a birthday cake to be delivered to DH on the first night since that's his actual birthday... :) Dona :) Hi Dona, What dates did you book for the Monarch? I think if you do a set sail pass for your son..(is he staying in the same cabin?) He should be able to check himself in so he could surprise hubby on the ship. Maybe not if you are all on the same setsail pass though....It should be a great surprise in anycase! Last time I was on the ship was in Sept and we are going again in a month on 12-15....I booked a Grand Suite as a surprise for my boys. I hope I can keep it a secret! Sailaway is usually at 4:30 and I am not certain but I think early dinner is at 6pm. We always do late dining. Friday dinner is casual dress as everyone is just getting onboard so don't worry about spending to much primp time. Also, you might go to gifts and gear in the RCI website and order some Happy Birthday decorations for the cabin....I love the Bon Voyage ones...it adds so much to the festivities! ;) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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