My cruise on the Indy.........shes a long one.

[Jerel]

Hello folk, just thought id ramble on about my resent cruise on the Indy. 

I hesitate to call this a review, 'review' implies judgement of some sort. I like to think of this as 'observations'. 

 

This post turned out to be allot longer that expected, oh well.

 

 

Our cruise was a 5 day trip out of Fort Lauderdale on the Independence of the seas, with stops in Belize and Cozumel.

 

Hotel...

Our hotel was decent enough, we stayed at a Quality Inn. Most affordable one we could find at the time. We are not too picky about rooms, just like them cheap. Not the nicest hotel but my only concern is bed bugs, i checked the mattress well and all was good. 

Lauderdale is a hard place to find cheap rooms, a boat show going on at the time didn't help either. 

One main thing I was looking forward to about the hotel was a nearby 50's dinner called 'Moonlight Dinner', it was really good, we liked it allot. The hotel also offered a shuttle service that was prompt, except when it came time to go to the ship. It was running late so we split a cab with a couple, a nice couple from Texas we ended up hanging out with here and there.

 

Boarding...

Boarding went very smooth. When we entered we passed the lines for suites, pinnacle, diamond and so on (lucky buggers). Then seen a huge line of many hundred people, got a little depressed and then looked past the huge crowd and at the very back was a line for gold with only 10 people in it. Couldn't believe it, I wondered how many of those people didn't even know it existed, they couldn't all be new cruisers. Oh well, we got in super fast.

 

Stateroom...

We spend very little time in our rooms so we normally get inside cabins, we did this time too but we got a Promenade view stateroom for a change. We liked it, but given the option again we would probably pass on it unless its a good price. We looked out of it a few times but that was it, the little bench next to the window probably came in handy more than a actual window. 

During the 70's party you hear quite a bit through the window, it didn't bother us at all but I could see how others would not like that.

One thing we found funny about the room was the shelves next to the mirrors. Above the desk next to the main mirror is a couple of smaller mirrors that open up to reveal shelves, on other cruises we ended up putting many things in them. In this room the shelves were 1.5 inches deep, you could put a pencil or pen on them, that's about it. 

Our room attendant was nice. Not the best conversationalist but was decent, you could tell all of his small chat was pre-programmed questions and sayings he has said a million times. Understandable of course but others made it sound more natural. But more importantly he bent over backwards to make us happy, we were pleased.

 

The ship...

We liked the ship, very nice with lots of room. Our last cruise was on the Adventure and found it very similar, there were definitely differences but are very comparable.

The kids H2O zone looked very cool, i really wanted to play in it but never got the chance. Their circle pool with the current looked super fun.

Really liked the flow rider, never tried it (maybe next time) but watched it allot and took a few videos. Allot of face plants but also allot of very good riders.

Many places to explore, definitely never did everything but we did enough to make us happy. We look forward to trying that class again to experience more. 

I really enjoyed the 'Once upon a time' show, incredibly talented singers, it also helped that there was familiar songs sung.

The Quest was awesome, very adult oriented. Iv never herd so few people scream and cheer so loudly. They made men dirty dance with each other, even made men and women strip down to underwear and exchange clothes on the spot. Definitely the best Quest iv seen, many people did things im sure they regret.

Love and Marriage was good too. Although this time they didn't separate the couples, just angled their chairs apart and made them wright answers on boards, very easy to cheat. Also they wouldn't announce a winner, everyone got gifts.

 

Logo store...

I'm a big sucker for the logo store but was very disappointed with this one. It was incredibly small with very little stock, they shared their space with general store selling liquor and candy. And out of the very little they had there wasn't much good. We love mugs and magnets but theirs were weak in our opinion, they had nothing with the ship on it, just a print collage of ship facts. Had a hard time finding anything I like there, and I am a easy sale.

My big issue for me was raising the price of the ship models, now $45. I couldn't believe it, they went up 10 to 15 dollars. I went to the guy working the counter and asked if they would go on sale last day, he said no. I asked why the huge price hike and he quickly responded "Oh that's because we are rip offs", I laughed and he added that he always gets a model of every ship he works on, and when he seen the price on this ship he was furious. Not sure if the price hike was fleet wide or just the Indy.

It was a nice detailed model but when I got home I noticed it was allot smaller that my other ships, apparently the Enchantment is allot bigger than the Independence.

 

Food...

Food was good, really enjoyed the main dining room, lots of great dishes. I loved the Windjammer for supper, lots of really good options. But wasn't a fan at breakfast, nasty eggs, soggy sausages, and bland french toast. Bacon was good though, I ended up filling my plate with just fruit and bacon. 

That's what i like about the Jammer, my plate is always a collage of different things. Like sushi, chocolate cake, and macaroni salad all on the same plate.  

The lunch options were better IMO but still nowhere near as good as supper. It was conflicting for me because I liked the supper food allot but also had to go the MDR, life can be so hard.

Really liked the little snacks and sandwiches on the Promenade aswell, filled up on them quite a bit.

One thing we weren't happy about was water, having to wait in line for water was a real bother. On our other ships there was always a water station in the Promenade, normally next to coffee machine. On the Indy there was a big empty space where it should be but no water. We drink allot water so getting in line for it wasn't fun, especially when they have many latte's to make. Of course they had it in the Windjammer but that's all the way up on deck 11.

 

Belize...

We did the Altun Ha and river excursion. Had a great time.

Since we booked threw Royal we got to wait for our tender in the theater. The tender wasn't as bad as we expected, probably because of calm seas. It was quite the distance though, you could just see land on the horizon. They kept saying it was a 45 minute ride but we did it in 20, they were probably accounting for ruff seas or included boarding time. Boarding on and off went quick, having to wait in theater surely helped that. Didn't have to wait in line or get tender tickets.

When we arrived they quickly herded us together and put us on boats, with a last chance to use washroom first, conveniently at the very back of a huge souvenir shop.

The river ride took a couple of hours, we stopped many times to look at wildlife. Seen howler monkeys, croc's, iguanas, many birds and even sleeping bats. When we got off the boat we waited for a bus with the option of buying local food, as we did. We got the traditional rise and beans with chicken, wasn't bad.

The ruins themselves were amazing, really really enjoyed them. We spent so much time on the river though that we had little at the ruins, my only complaint, I wish we had more time there.   

They brought you back to the ship via bus, seen many sad sites, very poor people with little help from government. 

 

Cozumel...

We declared this day a beach day, ended up going to Mr. Sanchos for a all inclusive.

Caught a cab there for 17 dollars, I believe it is 17 a couple so spiting a cab doesn't help. With tip your looking at $20 dollars each way, the beach itself is $55 a person, 5 down at booking and 50 when you arrive. They do take credit cards, which helped us because we were running low on American cash.

You get your own table on the beach for the day, good size tables with a straw roof for shade. When we first entered a waiter escorted us to a table way in the corner. We told him we would like a new table, he said ok and then just took off. I quickly clued in he was just trying to put us in his section. Feel free to pick a table anywhere you want, no need to settle. We got there early so got great choices. Although even if you arrive late its fine, they only let in so many people.

The wifi worked great before the main bulk of people showed up, got good again as they started to leave.

The drinks were good, must have tried every one. I found a few were way too sweet but with a little experimenting its easy to find something you like.

The food was really good too, you can grab something at buffet or order from menu. We stuck to the menu, it came quick anyways. Portions were small but that's fine, we just ordered allot. Ate lots of chips and guacamole, salsa was good. Really liked the coconut shrimp, ordered them many times. Wasn't a fan of their taco's though. 

Really happy with the food and drink, we ate and drank much, definitely got our moneys worth. 

The sand around the tables and on the beach was very soft and deep, walking in it was a bit tough but not bad. They had lots of low trees and canopy's too, you constantly had to duck everywhere you do. Not a issue but if you have mobility issue it might be a bother.

The wait staff was incredible, very fast and prompt. The deep sand didnt slow them down much (huge cavs).  There was one overweight waiter I would always watch full out running through the sand with a drink in his hand, very impressive. They would even take your drinks to the ocean and wave you in to grab it, then you take it back in with you. 

You only tip once at end of day. We tipped $20 and he seemed very happy and shook our hands, didn't see him do much with anyone else who tipped. So I assume it was enough money, I always second guess that stuff.

His name was Jose and was great.

Also as a note, there are birds everywhere that will raid you food without hesitation, fun to watch. And you do get approached by many people selling services and such, they arnt pushy though, say no thanks and they keep walking.

 

Disembarking...

We werent scheduled to leave till 10:15, which was fine because we had later flights. Super long line up to get out of the port though, it took awhile.

 

Conclusion...

All and all we had a great trip, I did spend allot of time exhausted though. I wish I got more rest before we left, I worked many long days at work before leaving. Next time ill make sure to be rested beforehand.

Looking forward to our next one in February, first time on Oasis class and we're going to pamper ourselves, getting nice hotel, nicer stateroom, dinning at 150, and drink packages. Not to mention there will be a mega celebrity on board.....Matt. Cant wait.

 

Thanks,

Jerel.

[bcarney]

Thanks for the info on Belize!

[DocLC]

Thanks for the narrative. Glad to hear you liked Mr. Sabcho's as we have it booked for next month.

[Matt]

Loved the observations. Great post!

 

I think I agreed with everything you said in your post.  I certainly have experienced a lot of what you wrote about and it all sounds like things I would expect.

 

I agree the Windjammer food is best at dinner, followed by lunch and last breakfast (try the omelette station for some good eggs).

 

Also noticed that Ft Lauderdale hotels are quite expensive.  For February, we may end up staying somewhere out of town... a 30 min drive does not bother me, especially if I can save $1-200.

 

Once Upon A Time show is really good. I saw it on Freedom and really enjoyed it and I agree, it is because of the song selection.

[FloatMe]

Thanks for the all te good info and thoughts! I too wish the logo store had some semblance of quality logo merchandise. I would gladly purchase a nice oxford, golf knit, wind jacket, etc. But the 2 for $20 tee shirts look and feel like $10 shirts.

 

Some day we will eat in the windjammer for dinner. We so enjoy the MDR, the tradition, and chatting with our table mates. Very difficult for us to fore go that experience for the buffet, but everyone tells us that it is definitely worth it.

[Jay White]

I was also disappointed in the IOTS/RC merch they had onboard. I walked in wanting to buy a t-shirt and a hoodie and any other gear that seemed cool. Walked out empty handed. I wanted the ship model, but my cheap side prevailed and I didn't buy it. (I regret it a bit).

 

Was your stateroom attendant named Vijesh? Mine was in August. He preformed his job well, but he was far from what you would call a conversationalist. He made nifty towel animals though, so I am not holding it against him. :)

 

I thought the cruise director, Leigh Xuereb, was awesome. He had a morning show with Frank the Activities Director. It was called Frank Leigh Speaking (see what they did there?). I thought they were hysterical! For instance, They called a lady over and were talking to her for a moment. As they were talking to her, they started to sniff at her. They complimented her on the perfume she was wearing. Then, They told the whole ship, "If you see this woman around the ship, walk up to her and smell her". I'm not sure why I find this amusing. I would have loved to find her and just watch people sniffing her all day. I have issues.

 

IOTS was a great ship and she treated us well. :)

[michelle]

great review and really like this class of ship - and Once Upon a Time is my favorite as well

Funny I love the Promenade rooms and get them on many sailings even over balconies so

it really is subject to everyone's likes for sure.

 

Belize is one of my favorite spots in the Caribbean - glad you did this tour and I agree

the tenders are not my favorite but we saw lots of dolphins when we were headed back

to the ship once, so it was cool.

[Jerel]

Thanks everyone

 

bcarney,

I think you'll like Belize. If you choose that excursion you will find the guides very knowledgeable and helpful with any questions. If you choose something else im sure you find something cool.

 

DocLC,

You will have a great time. For us it was a super fun beach bar day. I feel a little guilty for not exploring the island (first time) but there's always next time.

 

Matt.

Thats a good idea staying outside of the core. I wish that would work for us, we depend on cabs or shuttles. When we go away from the core it adds up, but of course they know that.

As for 'Once upon a time' when it comes to familiar music it really makes a difference. It reminds me of going to symphony and thinking its alright, then they play something from 'bugs bunny and tweety' and I think its awesome, its just cause I know it.

 

FloatMe.

The logo store really bugged me, couldn't even find anything with the ship on it. The thing that gets me is anyone who is a fan of the store is a super fan of Royal, they should realize that. Plus people are taking this stuff home, good advertising really.

 

Jay White.

Our room attendant was named Ida from the Philippines I think. Not to make fun but his accent was hilarious, especially his happy voice. It always made me smile whenever he spoke.

Not sure the name of our cruise director, he was Jamaican. Good dancer too, we really liked him at the Quest show.

 

Michelle.

We did like the room and thought the window was cool. But looking back we only looked out it a few times, for a similar price id do it again but not sure if its worth paying much extra for it. For us that is.

We never caught any Dolphins but the Texas couple we hung out with said they were playing in the wake of their tour boat.

It happened to me ounce in Hawaii where I looked over side of boat and seen one underwater spin and make eye contact with me, super cool.

We really liked 'Once upon a time' too, very very talented singers. They kept selling the fact this was there last show on board after 7 months of being together, they sure did give it their all.

[monctonguy]

Awesome review.....I am heading on Independence in 49 days, but the stops are Labadee and Jamaica and leaving out of Fort Lauderdale as well.

 

Hotels are very expensive there. I am glad I had some points to use otherwise 2 nights in a  hotel would have cost me the same as the cruise...insane!

 

Couple questions...did you check out the nightclub at all? If so, how was it..music, crowd, atmosphere?

 

Also, I hear they have a rock band on board that plays some good tunes..did you hear them at all anywhere? Was the English pub they have on board any good?

[Jerel]

Awesome review.....I am heading on Independence in 49 days, but the stops are Labadee and Jamaica and leaving out of Fort Lauderdale as well.

 

Hotels are very expensive there. I am glad I had some points to use otherwise 2 nights in a  hotel would have cost me the same as the cruise...insane!

 

Couple questions...did you check out the nightclub at all? If so, how was it..music, crowd, atmosphere?

 

Also, I hear they have a rock band on board that plays some good tunes..did you hear them at all anywhere? Was the English pub they have on board any good?

 

Hey Montonguy, thanks.

I cant help you too much because I didnt check out the club, other than a walkthrough when empty. I can say it did have a cool mid-evil theme, I think, either way it looked cool in there.

On my cruise the crowd was younger than expected, many in their 30's on average, the party's definitely were not empty.

Not sure why the crowd was a bit younger, the ship, the port, time of year, maybe the low cost of that sailing, who knows.

I sat down outside the pub a few times to people watch, really good spot to chill on the promenade. Never stayed too long but it is a nice place with a easy going feel.

I have noticed bands play here and there, never paid too much attention though.

 

I know your a small ship guy but I really think you'll enjoy this class. Lots of cool stuff on the pool deck but for me its the Promenade, lots of great events there and its just a great place to hang out.

 

On a side note. My sailing was over Remembrance day so I decided to wear a poppy, I thought it would be a good shout out to any Canadians on board, and it was, got approached by many. One interesting thing was that atleast 4 or 5 African workers came up to me genuinely excited to see it, they all said how when they were a kid everyone in school had to wear one. A couple of Americans knew what it was and thanked me for wearing it but mostly I got allot of 'nice flower' comments, like im just trying to add pizazz to my wardrobe :).

[WAAAYTOOO]

Nice job, Jerel. Poppies are very important for Americans as well. We are very active in the American Legion and poppies are a symbol of the Veterans' sacrifices. Nice to hear that others understood the signficance and appreciated it. Snazzy accessory ? Not so much...

 

 

[monctonguy]

Thanks for the info  Jerel. This will be my biggest ship and longest cruise to date so I am defn looking forward to it, and interested to compare to the smaller ships and shorter cruises I usually do. I am back on Brilliance in Feb which is smaller, then on Adventure in April which is closer in size and capacity I think to Independence than the smaller ones I normally do.

 

I am one for the nightlife, so I am defn interested in checking out the nightclub. It looks and sounds pretty cool from the pics I have seen. Of course, its always the crowd that makes it. I loved hanging at the English pub on Brilliance in the early evenings and having a few drinks before hitting the nightlife so hopefully it will be similar on Independence.

 

Really looking forward to the Promenade. Looks like there is lots to see and do here so I am sure some time will be spent in this area for sure.

[Galveston Steve]

Thanks for the great observations Jerel. Your thoughts on the Promenade room are interesting. We just got back from being on Liberty (same class) and had similar observations: not enough storage, and those shelves next to the mirror are virtually worthless. I didn't measure them, but 1.5" sounds about right! Also, I loved having the small bench seat in front of the window. It added a nice little seating area. I agree the window wasn't very functional because we were on Deck 8 and the actual Promenade was on Deck 5, so you had to get very near the window and look down to see anything. It did make the stateroom seem much less confined though, and we were not bothered by Promenade noise at all.

[Evantra]

No kidding but this exactly my trip for tomorrow as you broke it down! weird! lol