My friend Nancy and I went on RCCL Adventure of the Seas Southern Caribbean cruise on April 28th. We visited St. Thomas, Antigua, St. Lucia and Barbados. What a fantastic cruise! I can honestly say it is one of my favorites (I've been on 11 cruises). This itinerary is fantastic. We love these islands. The ship is beautiful and ENORMOUS! Of course, there were some not so nice aspects, as with anything. I've tried to categorize my review into sections.
Arrival Since 9/11 you now have to claim your baggage upon arrival in the departure city's airport. This is a royal pain. The cruise reps meet you by baggage claim. We waited about a half hour in the San Juan airport baggage area and then were led outside. Where we waited, and waited, and waited. After another half hour, we followed some of our fellow passengers and got a cab for $16 to the ship. Before we left, we asked the rep what the problem was. She said that the bus was late due to traffic delays because there was some type of special events going on in San Juan. However, our cabbie said there was no traffic that he knew of and we didn't notice anything along the way to the ship. Our luggage, luckily, was put on a truck and on it's way to the ship too. We were glad we took the cab, but unhappy with the poor excuses of the cruise reps. Check in at the pier was quick. It is good to join the Crown and Anchor (if you've cruise with RCCL before). However, I had to ask if I could just go up to that desk and check in instead of waiting on the long line. The line did move fast, but it would have helped if they directed us immediately to the express check-in.
The Ship This ship is like first class as compared to coach. Gorgeous! Huge! But not so big that it is overwhelming. Some didn't like it - thought it was too big. But, we had no problems. On any new ship, you need to get your bearings and there is more to locate, but there are plenty of signs and maps around. I could never explain all the stuff they have, it has to be seen to be believed.