We booked this trip a year ahead of time as a celebration for our 25th wedding anniversary. The ship was our destination rather than the ports. This was our 3rd cruise and 2nd with Royal Caribbean, our last being in 2006 with our kids and my parents on Explorer of the Seas.
We flew in the day before embarkation. We chose to stay at the Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale. It was only $50 more than most of the other hotels closer to the port at the time I booked and it was a an exceptional stay at the Rtiz! We Ubered to the port without issue and minimal cost.
Embarkation was super easy! We arrived at the port just before 11 am. No lines to check in or board, it was awesome. I always recommend boarding as early as possible, even though the cabins are not available until after 1, it just makes for smoother and quicker boarding. We grabbed a bite to eat in the Solarium Bistro and then walked the ship until our cabin was ready. Promptly at 1 pm they announced that all cabins were ready.
Very well laid out and spacious. Our luggage fit under the bed without issue for storage. Bathroom was well appointed and spacious for a ship cabin. We loved our balcony.....great space to relax and have some personal quiet time.
Great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful waters!
We stayed the night before at the Ritz Carlton. Great location and easy to get to the port.....enjoyed a wonderful sunrise.
Old San Juan is fun to explore and take in the architecture. The forts are worth touring and an easy walk to/from the ship. Don't miss the umbrellas on Calle de la Fortezea....so fun!