- The ship’s size and amenities feel like a floating city rather than a boat.
- Included dining options are high-quality and satisfying without extra cost.
- Room location matters significantly for avoiding motion sickness.
- Port visits are brief, offering a snapshot rather than a deep exploration of destinations.
Embarking on a maiden voyage aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas proved to be an eye-opening adventure filled with unexpected delights and lessons for a first time cruise traveler. The sheer scale of the ship was the first surprise; despite prior knowledge of its size, stepping onboard felt like entering a floating city, complete with shopping malls, diverse dining venues, and endless entertainment. The 179-square-foot ocean-view stateroom, initially feared to be cramped, turned out to be surprisingly spacious and efficiently designed, with large windows offering grand views of the sea.
Life onboard offered a unique rhythm. The level of service was exceptional, with stateroom attendants cleaning twice daily—a luxury rarely found in hotels. Dining was another highlight; contrary to expectations, the included meals in the main dining room were delicious and varied, negating the need to spend extra at specialty restaurants. Entertainment was constant and eclectic, with live music filling the air and spectacular shows like the AquaTheater performance, though securing reservations required advance planning.
However, not everything was smooth sailing. The ship’s immense size made navigation tricky, and booking a room at the front resulted in a rockier ride than anticipated. Port stops felt shorter than desired, offering only a brief taste of destinations like Honduras and Mexico rather than deep exploration. Additionally, plans were subject to weather, leading to the disappointment of a canceled hot air balloon ride. Ultimately, while the cruise offered an awe-inspiring and convenient way to see the world, the preference for deeper cultural immersion means future travels might involve a plane ticket instead.
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