Overall I have always thought of Royal Caribbean as a step above other cruise lines (such as Carnival) in terms of quality and service. Royal Caribbean charges a premium for their cruise fares. We are Platinum members and have sailed on Royal Caribbean many times before. However, it is becoming obviously clear that Royal Caribbean is cutting corners in every aspect to squeeze out every bit of profit wherever they can. It is such a shame as it clearly shows and overall service, quality of food and amenities have clearly gone down!

The food in the general dining room and Windjammer café is only marginal to mediocre! Food is tasteless and of average quality. Desserts are nothing special. I recall a time when one could count on exceptional steaks, desserts, and other food in the general dining areas. That is no longer the case. If you want a good quality steak, Italian food, etc, you are forced to go to the premium restaurants (Chops Grill and Giovanni's Table Italian restaurant) and pay a premium for what was previously included in the regular dining experience. Even the steaks at the Chops Grill are only average. While the steaks are prepared excellent and the cut and quality of the meat is a step above that of the general dining areas, the flavor and taste is bland and definitely not worth paying the extra money for.

Another place where service has clearly gone down: the general service in the common/public areas! It used to be that if one were to sit somewhere in the common areas, e.g. around the pool deck, and you ate something and put your empty plate or glass down it would only be a few minutes before some staff/service member would come by to clean it up. Now the dirty plates, glasses, and other trash would sit around for hours before being cleaned up. Read more