I wanted to write this while the experience was still fresh in my mind. This may be a long review, and I hope it helps someone in the future.

Let me start by saying that we are experienced cruisers, this being our 30th cruise and our 4th on RCI. We are a young 52 year old couple who love cruising and having a great time at sea. I planned this trip in January because our friends were doing a back to back on this ship. Having been to all of these islands before many times, we were excited to think of the ship as our excursions having never been on a ship with the promenade and amenities that the freedom offered. I will get into the ports review a little later.

We flew straight in to Orlando and hired Angels Luxury car service(407666-3932) for the trip to the port. Our flight was on time and they picked us up in baggage and off to the port we went. Smooth. Arriving at the port, I must say this was one of the easiest embarkations we have had. Through security and no lines and right on the ship. One small note after 30 cruises, all lines should pre-print the medical form that everyone has to fill out so you can have it in hand while boarding. Once on board, YES you cannot go to your room until 1 pm. Fire doors are closed and the staff will not let you pass. You will have to hold on to your carry on items until after 1. As our friends were already on board and in their room, it did take a little convincing to the crew member to let us go visit before they opened the doorways. Most other cruise lines usually have your rooms ready and you can go straight to them once on board. There were many people lugging around their stuff, and it did cause traffic jams in small spaces like the windjammer buffet area. Read more