My Majesty of the Seas Review, April 23rd 2007

[jamaica71594]

RCCL Majesty of the Seas Review:)

April 23-27, 2007

 

 

FYI: I also posted this review in the Cruise Members Review, but it will not show up until its approved, but I did promise a review!

 

The perfect time of year to cruise!! The weather was INCREDIBLE! I will never cruise in the summer again, period!

 

We got off to an early start with a 745am flight, but it turned out perfect, because we were on the ship by 130pm, just in time for lunch.

 

We did not pre-pay for transfers to the ship, but it worked out good because we took a taxi (and there are plenty ready and waiting) for a total of $12 per person one way. It was about a 20 minute ride with traffic.

 

For the Majesty to be an older ship, she was huge and pretty! When we arrived at the pier of course we had to check in and get our set sail pass first. The lines were long but moving quickly. Our total time check in process was under one hour. To save yourself time, just fill out the forms before getting in line. I was also to keep my luggage with me since both bags were small. Many people had so many luggages for 4 nights! Between my Mom and me, we had a total of 4, and I saw some people with 6-8 pieces, in a party of 2 (WOW)

 

When we first entered the lobby area I was totally amazed at the beauty of it! I had read previously that she was just refurbished and it definitely showed. It was so clean and pretty. This is the area where guest relations, mini-library and internet access is. It was also the floor where our cabin was located. This turned out perfect because we were near the dining room, and one floor down from the shops, casino, and theater.

 

The line at guest relations was long so we just went straight to our room.

 

Cabin review: Although small in size, it was functional and clean. I loved the décor and the beds were heaven. I slept good every night, especially feeling the ship rock as I slept. Our steward was very helpful and attended to our room daily. The beds were promptly made, bathroom cleaned, trash emptied and turndown service every night. The bathrooms are small, and there made to do what you need to do, and get out. I most impressed with the water pressure. The shower was amazingly good. The closet had good storage room, and I used the safe for our documents and valuables. There is a small flat-screen TV, which surprisingly showed some good movies that we were able to enjoy after turning in at night. The cabin does not have a great deal of space but it does serves its purpose. Since we had coffee and fruit delivered every morning, my Mom used the dresser and I used the windowsill to fix our coffee. There is a small end table, but we used that for books, etc. We are thinking about upgrading to a deluxe room, but not sure.

Score: 8

 

Our Stewardess: Never had a problem here at all. Our beds were changed daily, turndown service every night with animal towels and a mint. Bathroom kept clean, and towels changed daily. Every morning my Mom and I ordered coffee and fruit to start our day, before going to breakfast. The service for this was impeccable. Two mornings I forgot to write the time we wanted our coffee, so our phone would ring every morning at 7am where they would ask what time we wanted our coffee. On the 4th morning, we received our breakfast about 10 minutes late, but once again our phone rang, and they apologized for the delay, and asked as us was everything to our liking. WOW! I was so impressed with that. As a matter of fact, throughout the cruise this is the type of service we encountered every time.

Overall score for cabin; 8 Service: 9

 

After unpacking and changing clothes, we headed out for lunch in the Windjammer.

 

Windjammer Review: This was one of our favorite places to eat, especially my Mom. She was always in there getting fruit, snacks, and lemonade (which she swears is the best lemonade she’s ever had). I had fried sprung chicken which was delicious. They could not keep enough of this chicken out, everyone was eating it. There fruit was very good and sweet. What impressed me most about this area was how it was set up and how clean it was kept. Also, the service. There were several occasions when I would be at my table with nothing to drink, and a waiter would ask if I wanted coffee or juice, and then offer to get it for me. I did not expect that in the Windjammer, very impressive. Every station sort of goes in a circle and the best way I found to get around the crowds at times was to hit the least crowded area first and work your way around. If you were polite and moved yourself around people to get what you wanted, it worked out great. The food changed daily, including the desserts. Breakfast was also very good. We loved the scrambled eggs, especially with the cheese. There was bacon, sausages (turkey and pork), fruit of course, different types of breads, cereals, omelet station, etc. Overall score for Windjammer; 9

 

Some of my favorites:

Asian station/Twisted shrimp (if you like shrimp, you will love these)

Carving station/ Barbequed pork (delicious!!)

Mahi Mahi (I could have eaten this every night)

Garlic mashed potatoes

Fried sprung chicken (loved it and so do many other people, they could not keep enough of it out)

Pasta with diced ham (this was also in the Compass Deli)

Scrambled eggs with cheese (delicious)

 

Compass Deli and Sorrentos; Great pizza, I ate a slice at least once a day with a small salad. The Deli served a delicious pasta salad one day. It was never really busy in either place, which made it nice for a quick bite to eat, also it was easy access to the deck outside. Score 8

 

We never ate in Johnny Rockets, no comments here.

 

After lunch we went to check out the Pool Deck!

 

Pool Deck review: This was also a favorite hang out spot for my Mom. She loved sitting out here, when I was off doing something else. I knew she would be okay here, and she made a few friends along the way. The pool bar was always busy, even during sea days. There are actually two of them, but the one near the entrance was the busiest. We never used the pool, but it really was never that full. The hot tub stayed busy, but not the pool too much. I always found a cozy spot on the 12th deck for lounging and taking short naps. The views up there are amazing, but it got rather chilly at night. Once we began to leave Miami we found a spot to take pictures and just pulling away and watching the views were incredible. You will see this in my online photos. The frozen yogurt station was a popular spot every day and rightfully so. We were there at least twice a day. This pool deck is also where the sail away party was held, and that was a lot of fun. Plenty of food to eat and people were really having a good time. If you did not want to join in with the crowds, you could just find a spot on the 12th deck and have the best view of everything going on. Overall score; 8

 

A must do: When the ship is leaving the port of Miami, sitting on the right side of the pool deck offers some of the most incredible views of Miami and the waterfront homes! (as you can see in my photos) get their early, to get a good spot;) (if you are not a smoker, just stand near the windows, some of the windows are open) its worth it!

 

Mikado Dining Room; I can’t give much of a review here, because unfortunately we only ate here once, on the first night. My Mom was so exhausted by dinner time every night, that all she wanted to do was grab something to eat in Windjammer and relax. I did not push her, so I went along with her. We did however have a good experience on the one night in the dining room. We had a table for four and there was also a mother/daughter cruising together (which I thought was special that we were seated with them). It was the Mom’s birthday and the head waiter brought her out a small cake with a candle which was sweet, and we all sang happy birthday to her. My Mom and I ordered Prime rib which was sooo good and tender. The service here was incredible. Score; 8

 

Other: I took a tour of the ship on my own one night and although the ship is large, it’s very easy to navigate once you study the map. I got lost one night, and stumbled onto the Viking Crown Lounge. Nice lounge with plenty of seating and wonderful views of the sea. However, stumbling onto was pretty spooky at night, because it is well hidden, and dark at night.

 

Compasses: The compasses are great and delivered to your cabin daily. It definitely pays to read it because there is quite a bit going on throughout the day, including port days. Of course you can’t do it all. Someone posted a comment about the RCCL not having as many activities as Carnival, but I did not find that to be the case. I thought there was plenty to do!

 

Centrum shops; Typical resort shops, but my favorite was the $10 store. Ladies and Gents, if you need a nice evening bag, shawl, or watch, that’s the place to buy it. I had a budget for cruise store shopping and I went over it! Score; 8

 

The last day of your cruise is where the bargains are for T-shirts, because they can be pricey without the discount.

 

Shows/Adult Games; this is where I had the most fun; I never laughed so hard or sang as much as I did on this cruise. You must see the Battle of the Sexes show. OMG!!! It was hilarious!!! Especially watching the women try and pop balloons using their bellies!! The men were funny too, but the women were just funny, but we won! Unfortunately, I missed the comedy show on the 1st night, but I heard it was very good! Score; 9

 

Tribute to Motown; this show was located in the chorus line theater, and it was soooo good! The singer impressionist Alturo Shelton is the best! The audience participation was the highlight of the show, and it was great! This is a must see show!!!! Score: 9.5

 

I am not a big drinker, so I can’t comment too much on the drinks, however, I did try the Mojito and the Bahama Mama, the 1st being my favorite. I purchased both drinks in the Schooner Lounge. Fun place to hang out and relax, while listening to the piano player plays familiar tunes, and enjoy Karaoke.

Score for lounge: 9

 

Ports of Call:

 

Nassau, Bahamas; My least favorite, but I am glad I got the change to visit. Instead of booking a tour RCCL, we went near the straw market and purchased tours with one of many taxis/van services that are waiting for you when you arrive. They are extremely aggressive but it’s very easy to brush them off. There was a family of about 6 or 7 waiting to leave for their tour, and my Mom and I were added with that group. The tour was very good for $24.00 pp. It lasted about 2.5 hours, and we toured neighborhoods (good and bad) as well historical sites, 15 min stop at a straw market, and last stop was the Atlantis. What a beautiful hotel! We did not use the facilities, but were able to walk around a bit. Our driver was extremely nice, and informative, and he was patient, as there were a few senior citizens in our group including my Mom. I wasexpecting more of Nassau, but I slightly disappointed in what I did see. It seemed rather dirty to me, with the exception of the area where the Atlantis is. It did not appeal to me at all. I will probably have to visit again. Our driver’s name is James Louis, Taxi# 607. Great Guy. Score: 7

 

Coco Cay: I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PLACE!!! What a beautiful private island owned by RCCL. So inviting and colorful. The straw markets were even colorful. Plenty of places to lounge by the sea, or lay in a hammock hidden away from the crowds. (Which the crowds were small). Although the food was not hot, it was good. I enjoyed the corn/cob, and rice and beans. There is plenty to do here; scuba, snorkeling, parasailing, etc. or just do nothing at all. There is also a live island band that plays throughout the day for your enjoyment. Such a cool place. This was #1 favorite stop, and I look forward to visiting again and again. Score; 10 (I never give anything a 10, but this was well deserved)

 

Key West: My #2 favorite port. This place is sooo cool. From the quaint homes, B&B’s, hotels, and shops, it’s the ideal place for a vacation. We choose to do the Trolley tour and purchased our tickets in Mallory Square for $27.00 pp. The ride was fun, and we had a good driver. The trolley has 10 stops, and you can hop on and off all day. We did get off near the Southernmost Hotel, and had a light lunch. (I can’t remember the name of the café). The island is really compact, and looks pretty easy navigate on foot, but we so many people were riding scooters. Scooters everywhere. We did not get a chance to walk Duvall Street, but our driver did take us through it, and I can’t wait to return to explore it on foot.

Score: 9

 

I will not go into to many details about departing, but I will say RCCL is very well organized. Not only do they feed you very well before you depart, but they don’t leave you bored while you wait. There were sitcoms playing on the big screen in the theater, the schooner bar was open for relaxing. You could also relax on the pool deck. At first I thought we were waiting rather long for our color to be called to depart, but once they did call our color, we were off the ship in minutes. Retrieving our luggage was also a breeze. We were at the Miami airport by 930am. (Our flight did not leave until 145pm). Plenty of time to relax and read or nap at the airport. Now I wish I had booked the 1045am flight. But who knew.

 

Honorable mention: #1 I met a cool couple (Brent and Christopher); actually I met Christopher online at cruisecritic, so we set a date/time to meet at the Schooner bar. Two great guys and it was their 1st cruise too. Other than the Schooner lounge, Christopher and I also met at the Boleros Lounge for the Battle/Sexes game. I really enjoyed their company, and hope one day we will cross cruise paths again! I call them my cruise buddies now!

 

#2 Luggage; I carried both my bags with me until we reached our cabin (my bags were small), however, my Mom did check one. We boarded the ship about 130pm, and after dropping our carryon bags off in the cabin, we went to lunch. We returned from lunch about 45 min later and there was her luggage. I was amazed. It took all of 4-5 hours for us to receive our luggage on Carnival.

 

#3 Children on the ship: In comparison to Carnival, RCCL does a good job occupying kids. I hardly ever saw them at all, and although its not summer season yet, there were many kids onboard. At "Motown Tribute" show in the theater, we got a mini show from the kids all dressed like pirates. It was sooo cute, and adorable. How the staff manage to get those kids to remember their lines was amazing, but they opened the show, and most everyone gave them a standing ovation.

 

#4 On the morning embarkation, if you want to eat in the windjammer, I would either arrive early before they open or wait until around 730am.

 

Between 630am and 715 were the busiest. I saw many people bringing their food out on the deck, because there were no tables,but they did return them.

 

#5 Rudness is everywhere, no matter where you go. I saw quite a bit of it either in the dining room, (yelling at the waiters), pool deck or elsewhere. Don't let it bother you, some people just never need to travel. One lady complained and nagged about every little thing while we were on the pool deck trying to relax. I almost wanted to tell her, you can always get off at the next port and not return, unbelievable:rolleyes:

 

 

Overall we had a fabulous time on this cruise. This was our 1st cruise with RCCL, and I must say it was well worth it. They do a fantastic job!!!! We are making plans to return on the Majesty in 2008. I would actually do this cruise alone if for some reason my Mom could not go or one of my friends. My husband refuses to cruise. I enjoyed it that much, I would do it alone!

 

 

I think I covered everything, and I hope you enjoyed reading my review, but if you have questions, please feel free to ask!

 

 

Comparison rating to Carnival (only one cruise with carnival)

Carnival; 7.9/ RCCL: 9.5

 

 

Service being the #1 reason RCCL wins hands down!

 

Note: I did not have a bad cruise with Carnival, but RCCL won me over!!!!!:D

[deskh]

Great Review! Thank you so much for posting it. My family is headed on a cruise aboard Majesty in 14 days and your post was very helpful. I am glad you enjoyed yourself.

Sue

[scissorgui]

Louise,

I totally agree with your review. Nassau was disappointing from Brent and me as well. As far as the dinning room goes, I can add that the food was fantastic. We ate there every night...just dont keep expectations high of people's wardrope on formal night (that irked me a little bit with there being numerous options for dinning on the ship). Our waiter/assistant waiter were great...on formal night my champagne glass never fell below half until the bottle emptied. Our head waiter, what is his job anyhow besides bsing everynight, didn't even make it to our table 2 of the 4 nights...but we honestly didn't miss him. The food was amazing! Everynight there were numerous options to choice from-from gourmet delights to basic entrees. And then came dessert....WOW is all i have to say!!! Just watch out for the coffee, it is a little on the strong side.

 

You are definitely our cruise buddy too...appreciate the mention in your review...it was a pleasure meeting you and your mom.

[Aquahound]

Excellent review. And your pictures were great!

[MNCruiser_21]

This was a very well thought out review Louise. I am still working on mine and hope to have it done tonight. I will post it when it is done.

[English Jane]

I enjoyed your review - I enjoyed this cruise too (last year)!

 

I thought Alturo Shelton was fab too - I loved his show.

[kirbmeister]

Great review. This next week can't go fast enough!

[prc]

We did a b2b on the Majesty last year at this time, and Arturo Shelton was performing then. It looks like we will see him again on the 14th !

[jamaica71594]

Louise,

I totally agree with your review. Nassau was disappointing from Brent and me as well. As far as the dinning room goes, I can add that the food was fantastic. We ate there every night...just dont keep expectations high of people's wardrope on formal night (that irked me a little bit with there being numerous options for dinning on the ship). Our waiter/assistant waiter were great...on formal night my champagne glass never fell below half until the bottle emptied. Our head waiter, what is his job anyhow besides bsing everynight, didn't even make it to our table 2 of the 4 nights...but we honestly didn't miss him. The food was amazing! Everynight there were numerous options to choice from-from gourmet delights to basic entrees. And then came dessert....WOW is all i have to say!!! Just watch out for the coffee, it is a little on the strong side.

 

 

You are definitely our cruise buddy too...appreciate the mention in your review...it was a pleasure meeting you and your mom.

 

Hey Chris

 

If you see this post send me an email, I have a reply to a post I received regarding my pictures,and I want you and chris to read it!

 

louise71594@yahoo.com

[kingsgirl]

I liked Nassau my first time. We did the straw market, walked around town a bit (and I totally agree about the locals being extremely aggressive!), and took a boat over to Paradise Island (where Atlantis is) and went to the beach over there. It was fun!

 

But that said, when I've thought about going back, I wonder what I would do.

 

What else can you do there?

[jamaica71594]

I liked Nassau my first time. We did the straw market, walked around town a bit (and I totally agree about the locals being extremely aggressive!), and took a boat over to Paradise Island (where Atlantis is) and went to the beach over there. It was fun!

 

But that said, when I've thought about going back, I wonder what I would do.

 

What else can you do there?

 

I am sure there is probably more to do and see, but I decided already if we go with the same itinerary next year, that will be our sea day, and maybe go out at night to senor frogs, depending on who I am with, other than my Mom, who will not go to senor frogs LOL!!

 

I am trying to decide between the Majesty again or Enchantment, not sure yet. But I would like to return to CoCoCay!

[kingsgirl]

I am sure there is probably more to do and see, but I decided already if we go with the same itinerary next year, that will be our sea day, and maybe go out at night to senor frogs, depending on who I am with, other than my Mom, who will not go to senor frogs LOL!!

 

I am trying to decide between the Majesty again or Enchantment, not sure yet. But I would like to return to CoCoCay!

 

Yeah CocoCay ROCKS. I love it there.

[WindinmySails]

Great review Louise!! Wish we could have connected, but my Mom was up until the wee hours with me. We had a great time as well!

 

Perhaps one day we will cruise again on the same ship...yep, I could easily cruise alone..it is that good!

[scrpnstmp]

Jamaica,

 

Newbie with first post here! We are sailing on the Majesty June 11th and found your review very informative. Would it be possible to get a link to your pics? I didn't see it and may have missed it. Thanks.

[jamaica71594]

Jamaica,

 

Newbie with first post here! We are sailing on the Majesty June 11th and found your review very informative. Would it be possible to get a link to your pics? I didn't see it and may have missed it. Thanks.

 

Sure, no problem

 

I also added pictures of the cruise compasses, which will give you an idea of things to do on board,

 

here is the link, let me know if works, it should

 

http://family.webshots.com/album/558835220PMMCnu

[BillOh]

Great Review! Thank you so much for posting it. My family is headed on a cruise aboard Majesty in 14 days and your post was very helpful. I am glad you enjoyed yourself.

Sue

 

 

I'll make sure everything is left in pefect shape for your arrival :D

 

Jamaica, I'll enjoyed all your post regarding this cruise, Boy are we ready. I'll bet your mom is sitll talking about it.

[BillOh]

!#5 Rudness is everywhere, no matter where you go. I saw quite a bit of it either in the dining room, (yelling at the waiters), pool deck or elsewhere. Don't let it bother you, some people just never need to travel. One lady complained and nagged about every little thing while we were on the pool deck trying to relax. I almost wanted to tell her, you can always get off at the next port and not return, unbelievable:rolleyes:

 

 

You are so right, I can barely stand going to the mall or large crowds any more. I'll be in my own little world ignoring it on the cruise, as long as the person yelling at the waiter is not at my table.

[BillOh]

I liked Nassau my first time. We did the straw market, walked around town a bit (and I totally agree about the locals being extremely aggressive!), and took a boat over to Paradise Island (where Atlantis is) and went to the beach over there. It was fun!

 

But that said, when I've thought about going back, I wonder what I would do.

 

What else can you do there?

 

In about 2 weeks, I'll have a review and pictures of the Segway tour.

[jamaica71594]

I'll make sure everything is left in pefect shape for your arrival :D

 

Jamaica, I'll enjoyed all your post regarding this cruise, Boy are we ready. I'll bet your mom is sitll talking about it.

 

Yes my Mom is still talking about it. She is in anticipation of our next cruise in 2008!

[LookingForward2]

Jamaica,

 

Newbie with first post here! We are sailing on the Majesty June 11th and found your review very informative. Would it be possible to get a link to your pics? I didn't see it and may have missed it. Thanks.

 

 

Hey scrpnstmp,

bet I can guess what your hobbies are...! lol

We will be on the same cruise. Check on the Roll Call to see if others are posting any new information, this is the page that lists all the cruisers for that date.

 

We are so looking forward to this cruise, we've been on the Majesty before, but are looking forward to seeing the refurbishments.

Where are you travelling from? flying? into where? same day? etc.

have fun planning!

[jamaica71594]

Great review Louise!! Wish we could have connected, but my Mom was up until the wee hours with me. We had a great time as well!

 

Perhaps one day we will cruise again on the same ship...yep, I could easily cruise alone..it is that good!

 

Hi

 

I wish we could have met too! Did you have a good time?? How did you enjoy the ports?? I love CoCoCay, can't wait to return. I think we are going to sail on her again in April 28, 2008. I am waiting for my TA to return from vacation.

 

Your are right, maybe one day we will cruise on the same ship again! and I agree, I am willing to cruise alone next year!

[scrpnstmp]

Thanks so much for the photo link! Your photos were great! Now this last 40 days is going to seem even longer! We can't wait until we go aboard!

[Saintsfan007]

I really enjoyed your review, and the photos you posted. My fiance' and I will be on the Majesty in July for our honeymoon, and we are really looking forward to it. Thanks for all the valuable information!

[WindinmySails]

Jamaica!

We did have a great time as well. I don't think there is anything I can add, your review was fabulous! How did it work out with the OBC? Were you able to get it?

My parents were so stressed from all they'd been through, that they were apprehensive about going to cruise. They thought they'd be too stressed to enjoy a vacation and apologized about the the timing--as if they had that option.

Pictures of my dad on the first day show him so stressed and on the last day, they are so relaxed!!

He said it was so great not to have to worry about anything!!

As I only see them once a year, though I live in Colorado and they are in Florida, I felt obigated to be with them the whole time--although one thing I love about cruising is meeting new people--so I regret not meeting you in person!

Now if I could only get my husband to cruise...

[jamaica71594]

Jamaica!

We did have a great time as well. I don't think there is anything I can add, your review was fabulous! How did it work out with the OBC? Were you able to get it?

My parents were so stressed from all they'd been through, that they were apprehensive about going to cruise. They thought they'd be too stressed to enjoy a vacation and apologized about the the timing--as if they had that option.

Pictures of my dad on the first day show him so stressed and on the last day, they are so relaxed!!

He said it was so great not to have to worry about anything!!

As I only see them once a year, though I live in Colorado and they are in Florida, I felt obigated to be with them the whole time--although one thing I love about cruising is meeting new people--so I regret not meeting you in person!

Now if I could only get my husband to cruise...

 

Thats good you and your parents had a great time.

 

My husband been refusing to go on a cruise since we met, but just the other day he said he would think about it, when I asked him about going on a short 3 day cruise in October. We shall see, and the moment he says YES, I am calling my TA!!!

 

Just keep trying!!!!