Independence of the Seas Review

4.5 / 5.0
1,703 reviews

Well Done Indy!

Review for the Western Mediterranean Cruise on Independence of the Seas
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SeastarTexas
6-10 Cruises • Age 50s

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Sail Date: Jun 2014
Traveled with children

This was our fourth cruise with RC (our 3rd on IOS) and we have cruised before with both Disney and Princess. We are a family of six, ranging in age from 15 to 72, and we occupied 3 balcony cabins. The cabin attendant was polite, helpful and efficient and he gladly opened the partitions between the balconies so that we could freely move between cabins. Embarkation was a little chaotic, but we were on board within 30 minutes of arrival at the terminal. We hired Eddie Manning's transfer service to drive us from our hotel in central London to the Southampton terminal and we were extremely pleased with the elegant service we received.

The Independence is a stunning ship. The common areas are attractive and are very well kept. Staff members were constantly cleaning, painting or restoring the floors, walls and railings. We found crew members to be friendly and courteous--saying "good morning" in the hallways for example. We even passed the Captain one afternoon in the Royal Promenade, and he stopped to answer a few questions and to shake our hands. The Royal Promenade has removed the barbershop and installed a cupcake store since our last IOS sailing. I don't think I saw a single customer at the Cupcake Cupboard during our entire 2 weeks on board. Perhaps that space could be reclaimed for seating as Café Promenade is nearby and very popular.

Our cabins were comfortable and quiet. There is adequate storage room for clothing and cases. I give high marks to RC for their no smoking policies regarding cabins and balconies. The bathrooms are small with phone booth style showers, but the water pressure is good and there is ample hot water. There are no toiletries provided (other than bar soap and shower gel), but I prefer to travel with my own products anyway. The outlets in the cabins are fitted for U.S. plugs.

Cabin Review

Centrally located, quiet and comfortable. Ample storage space.

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