Joe01

Couldn't have said it better myself! The reason why AN is so big is because she is tall, but those extra decks only consist of additional staterooms. Actually a very narrow ship. Voyager Class doesn't suffer from overcrowding much.

I can see how that might be.  Crowds did not move well on Anthem in my experience.  And many areas felt narrow.  I'll be able to compare when I sail Mariner in August.  It's been 16 years since I've sailed a Voyager class ship.

It does not feel like a Royal Caribbean ship. Very different design, lacked a lot of amenities that I liked on other ships, too much reservations, overcrowded etc. I don't regret trying the Anthem to see what Quantum Class had to offer, but wouldn't do it again.

I can''t believe that I missed this thread, but it is really sad. I am in agreement with @Skid - Show some empathy!
The comments about 'Pizza' and 'no reservation stickers' are just tasteless. I'm not so sure you would make the same joke if it were your relative!

Sure. Maybe I am being a bit harsh on it as Baltimore was my first cruise outside of Europe (actually my first visit to the United States), but right away when we arrived in Washington, the first thing we saw was a "Welcome Home All Americans" banner and those who were non American were completely ignored. That sort of set the tone.
So as for cruising from Baltimore, I mainly mean that it attracts a much more mature clientele than what I usually sail with. Even during the summer, it didn't seem to attract much of a young crowd, and it was pretty much made up of only Americans. They didn't seem to try and cater for non American guests on that sailing, and Baltimore is too much of a pain to get to anyway. I would go to New Jersey and sail on AD or AN if I wanted to do those itineraries again (which I do).
Then again, I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the East Coast.

When we sailed on Oasis in 2017, I was quite shocked to see law enforcement officers armed with assault rifles at MCO.  Totally understood why but just did not expect to see it right out of the gates. 

Sure. Maybe I am being a bit harsh on it as Baltimore was my first cruise outside of Europe (actually my first visit to the United States), but right away when we arrived in Washington, the first thing we saw was a "Welcome Home All Americans" banner and those who were non American were completely ignored. That sort of set the tone.
So as for cruising from Baltimore, I mainly mean that it attracts a much more mature clientele than what I usually sail with. Even during the summer, it didn't seem to attract much of a young crowd, and it was pretty much made up of only Americans. They didn't seem to try and cater for non American guests on that sailing, and Baltimore is too much of a pain to get to anyway. I would go to New Jersey and sail on AD or AN if I wanted to do those itineraries again (which I do).
Then again, I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the East Coast.

I can''t believe that I missed this thread, but it is really sad. I am in agreement with @Skid - Show some empathy!
The comments about 'Pizza' and 'no reservation stickers' are just tasteless. I'm not so sure you would make the same joke if it were your relative!

Some of the comments here belong on the "other" board. Some things should just plain not be joked about. Do not want to hear how I should lighten up or get a sense of humor---"it's not me, it's you".

It is not about beating a dead horse or about being politically correct. It's about human beings showing some respect and sympathy for parents who lost a child under tragic circumstances. It is baffling to me how some people don't get that.
If it's supposed to be a family here on RCBlog, I guess I've been disowned by some. Oh well.

Chris is moving to Anthem in July. Marvin will probably be around until August/September. 33 is also pretty young for a CD, although quite a few are a similar age. Wish that they had some below 30 - Younger CD's are usually better.
Enjoyed your blog and have fun on the Symphony when it comes! First Oasis Class?

Glad to hear that Chris & Marvin are a dynamic duo. Improvement over Casey? This is actually the first contract for Chris as CD outside the Asia & Australia markets, so I am pleased that he is being well-received in the Western hemisphere. Already knew that Marvin was a great AM, who should be made CD soon.
BTW - I love the 70's night. It's the 50's and 60's night that I dislike.

First off...even though the weather is not really cooperating, this may be our most fun cruise yet. This is the best crew we've seen....Every single crew member is amazingly friendly and helpful. Hotel Director Bill Downey has been all over the ship and it is so obvious that he truly loves his job. His enthusiasm definitely trickles down to everyone.
CD Chris Brown and AM Magic Marvin Wilson are the best team we have seen since Abe Hughes and Chris Hopkins. I think Marvin will be the next great CD. And now presenting...the highlight of the CD staff.... Fernanda from Mexico! This magnificent young lady is nothing short of an entertainment machine AND the nicest, friendliest person you can ever want to meet. They had the Disco Inferno 70's show last night (excellent show--sorry JOE01). Everyone was great, but Fernanda "rocked the boat".
According to Hotel Director Bill, MOST of the suites got new carpets and drapes during the last dry dock. Bedding stayed on the rotating schedule they always had, so some suites have brand new, while others may not. We are not in a suite, but FYI our OV hump balcony cabin did get new bedding and our mattress is VERY comfortable to us.... mattresses, like food, are subjective.
Windjammer: no issues there. Crowded, of course, but food (again, subjective) is fine and fresh. We've been in MDR each night for dinner and have enjoyed food and service there also. If any issue at all, it is that MDR entrees end up at the table warm, not steaming hot. Ok, though. Will be doing Chops Lunch on Thursday.
Kathy, I am already jealous that we are getting off in Friday, and you will be first staring your vacation. Have an awesome time!
 
Are you on Adventure now, doing a B2B from your time here on the 5th repositioning or were you talking about Grandeur???
DW wasn't sure about going with the weather being what is, but I think I have convinced her. Either way, I will try to get some information today.
Other quick tidbits:
WiFi cuts out about 20 times a day...but have never needed to re-enter the password...just need to click WiFi and it comes right back. No issues getting it anywhere on the ship so far.
We are on day 4 and have not seen a drink card offer yet. Specialty coffee card on board is 15 for $31.
Despite what I have read previously, we have had no annoying hardsell attempts at all for spa, specialty restaurants, etc. Reps are certainly all around if you want help, but have not been pestering or bothersome.
Dropped off our luggage at Bayonne Port at about 10:30, parked at the garage, checked in and was on board and eating in WJ by 11:15. Easy peasie! WJ was pretty much epmty when we got there and packed by 11:30. 
And of ultimate importance....pizza is better than last year. Certainly not the best, but very edible. Other items in Cafe Promenade are really good.
 

I'm not sure yet. Was meant to be John Blair but he left earlier than expected and isn't returning to LB. You are lucky though as I am not a John fan whatsoever.

This seems to be Chris' first CD contract in the Caribbean itineraries, after over 3 years in the Asia & Australia market, so not heard much. I have heard that he is good though. Was on Quantum prior and closed down the Legend, so is probably respected by Royal as a good CD.

Time for a little update!
Ship
Cruise Director
Activities Manager
Adventure
Chris Brown
Unknown
Allure
Jimmy Rhodes
Unknown
Anthem
Clo O'Connor
Tanya Yates Tongue
Brilliance
Abe Hughes
Enzo Matijaca
Empress
Hugo Arenas
Mickey Martin
Enchantment
 Bobby Broughton        
 Assata Young-Mayers
Explorer
Graham Seymour
Margot van Erck
Freedom
 Drew Devine
Saini Gupta
Grandeur 
 Mike Szwajkowski
Cecy del Razo
Harmony
 Dru Pavlov
Jerry Kubli
Independence
 Tim Connor
Elizabeth Hackett
Jewel
Andrea Olivieri
Daniel Klophaus
Liberty
Mitch Merucci
Unknown
Mariner
Ricky Matthews
Renato Arana
Majesty
Susan Adams
Mauricio Diaz
Navigator
Simona Ferraiuolo
Mark Rous
Oasis
Jeff Arpin
Tresha Robb
Ovation
Mike Hunnerup
Angelle Rutten van Hemert
Quantum
Paul Rutter
Unknown
Radiance
Ken Jones
Alex Green
Rhapsody
Elvis Pinto
Eric Lopez
Serenade
Symphony
Carly Boileau
Michele Scarpato
Alison Hasler
Katy McCullagh
Vision
Steve Davis
Talita Leoni
Voyager
Carlos Torres
Troy Zhang
EDIT: Please ask if you would like to know who will be onboard on a specific date. I may have the answer.

Heads up for anyone on the 2 Group Cruises this year:
Explorer - June 22nd 2018:
CD - Topi Ylönen; AM - Aysy Sadrislamova
Symphony - November 17th 2018:
CD - Marc Walker; AM - Currently unknown

Time for a little update!
Ship
Cruise Director
Activities Manager
Adventure
Chris Brown
Unknown
Allure
Jimmy Rhodes
Unknown
Anthem
Clo O'Connor
Tanya Yates Tongue
Brilliance
Abe Hughes
Enzo Matijaca
Empress
Hugo Arenas
Mickey Martin
Enchantment
 Bobby Broughton        
 Assata Young-Mayers
Explorer
Graham Seymour
Margot van Erck
Freedom
 Drew Devine
Saini Gupta
Grandeur 
 Mike Szwajkowski
Cecy del Razo
Harmony
 Dru Pavlov
Jerry Kubli
Independence
 Tim Connor
Elizabeth Hackett
Jewel
Andrea Olivieri
Daniel Klophaus
Liberty
Mitch Merucci
Unknown
Mariner
Ricky Matthews
Renato Arana
Majesty
Susan Adams
Mauricio Diaz
Navigator
Simona Ferraiuolo
Mark Rous
Oasis
Jeff Arpin
Tresha Robb
Ovation
Mike Hunnerup
Angelle Rutten van Hemert
Quantum
Paul Rutter
Unknown
Radiance
Ken Jones
Alex Green
Rhapsody
Elvis Pinto
Eric Lopez
Serenade
Symphony
Carly Boileau
Michele Scarpato
Alison Hasler
Katy McCullagh
Vision
Steve Davis
Talita Leoni
Voyager
Carlos Torres
Troy Zhang
EDIT: Please ask if you would like to know who will be onboard on a specific date. I may have the answer.

Time for a little update!
Ship
Cruise Director
Activities Manager
Adventure
Chris Brown
Unknown
Allure
Jimmy Rhodes
Unknown
Anthem
Clo O'Connor
Tanya Yates Tongue
Brilliance
Abe Hughes
Enzo Matijaca
Empress
Hugo Arenas
Mickey Martin
Enchantment
 Bobby Broughton        
 Assata Young-Mayers
Explorer
Graham Seymour
Margot van Erck
Freedom
 Drew Devine
Saini Gupta
Grandeur 
 Mike Szwajkowski
Cecy del Razo
Harmony
 Dru Pavlov
Jerry Kubli
Independence
 Tim Connor
Elizabeth Hackett
Jewel
Andrea Olivieri
Daniel Klophaus
Liberty
Mitch Merucci
Unknown
Mariner
Ricky Matthews
Renato Arana
Majesty
Susan Adams
Mauricio Diaz
Navigator
Simona Ferraiuolo
Mark Rous
Oasis
Jeff Arpin
Tresha Robb
Ovation
Mike Hunnerup
Angelle Rutten van Hemert
Quantum
Paul Rutter
Unknown
Radiance
Ken Jones
Alex Green
Rhapsody
Elvis Pinto
Eric Lopez
Serenade
Symphony
Carly Boileau
Michele Scarpato
Alison Hasler
Katy McCullagh
Vision
Steve Davis
Talita Leoni
Voyager
Carlos Torres
Troy Zhang
EDIT: Please ask if you would like to know who will be onboard on a specific date. I may have the answer.

Here are some examples of them:
50's & 60's:
70's:
90's:
 

God almighty, if I'd known I was about to kick off an international incident I'd have kept my mouth shut instead of trying to be encouraging! 

Abe Hughes got CD after 3.5 years with Royal and was mid-20's at the time. He is one of their very best.
Quite the opposite in fact - I've seen several move up within 8 years of employment with RCI, many in 5. The CD on your Freedom cruise, Drew Devine, joined Royal Caribbean in 2001 and was Cruise Director in 2005.
It's a massive undertaking, and you are right that there is a great deal of management involved, but I have rarely seen a CD that has taken 15 years to get to the position from joining. Can actually think of none.

I LOVED Abe as well. Him and Joff are the best two that I have had. LNEMS was fantastic!
Dru gets consistently good reviews over on CC. I'm sure you will have a great time. 

She was scheduled to be, but plans have changed and she is on Explorer instead then Symphony. Glad to hear that you liked her!