Mexican Riviera Cruise - Loads of Info!

[edit4ever]

It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a week since we took the sad, sad walk off of Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas. My husband and I have cruised several times, once before on a Royal Caribbean ship. We’ve also cruised the Mexican Riviera before, though did so on a different cruise line last year. We live in San Diego, and were looking for a cruise that would allow us to relax and have some fun before officially beginning the new year. All in all, I’m happy to say that this trip did not disappoint. This ship itself is really quite beautiful, and the service from all crew we encountered was anywhere from good to outstanding. In the end, like everything else in this world that isn’t perfect, so much of the experience became what we made of it.

 

I've also posted this in the Royal Caribbean section. If you're not travelling with RCI but want to read a review on our ports, you can skip down to the ports section. Our itinerary included Cabo, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo and Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa.

 

Embarkation

Getting on the ship proved to be a tad tricky. The lines to embark were particularly long, and we heard this was because passengers from the previous cruise disembarked later than anticipated. For those who just couldn’t wait to get on the ship and were willing shell out about $10, they chose to take a pedicab (those bikes with carriages in the back) into the cruise embarkation area, where they could skip the longest portions of the line. Having cruised out of San Diego before, the longer wait was definitely not the norm, and once we got through the initial line things moved very quickly.

 

Once onboard we made our way up to the buffet to get started immediately on the eating frenzy and gluttony that overtakes many cruise ship passengers. We then explored the ship, which was a bit smaller than we were thinking it would be, and made our way to our cabin on the 10th deck, where we were pleased to see our bags had arrived. We found the room to have more than sufficient storage for the many items we brought on board. We had a balcony room and truly love that experience. The bed was comfortable and our attendant was great. When we got to our room she introduced herself, and met every question or request with friendliness and ease. The primary thing we requested was for her to empty out the fridge so we could store our water and a few other items (we would’ve done this ourselves, but if you move the items in there you get charged for them).

 

Dining

The dining experience was fine. The breakfast and lunch buffets had a ton of options, and we were always satisfied with these meals.

One item that proved to be challenging in the beginning, but which we figured out, was the dining room experience. On our first day we made our way to the dining room to see if we could switch over to a table for two. To be fair, our expectations on this might have been off because we are used to having a lot of flexibility in this regard, as we cruise with Norwegian a lot and their dining set-up is completely different. The main dining room on the Radiance of the Seas has a total of two tables for two for those who haven’t taken advantage of “My Time Dining”. Also, because we chose to eat during the first seating (we tend to get hungry by 6pm or so and, because we also buck the trend of many in their 30s and don’t stay up late partying, we don’t like to eat a big meal before bed) there was very little room for moving us around. Our table seated 10 and, though all very nice, we were seated with folks who each brought pre-teens. We simply didn’t have that much in common. We had investigated “My Time Dining”, and it was actually overbooked when we got onboard, so if you want this option be sure to reserve it ahead of time. That being said, we probably wouldn’t have loved that either. You have to make a reservation each morning for later that day, and you don’t know exactly where you’ll wind up. In the end our solution was to eat at the buffet in the Windjammer each evening. We found it included most of the items on the menu in the main dining room, and it gave us the opportunity to try small portions of several things while allowing for bigger salads and healthier foods. It also included a sushi bar, so we indulged in a few different rolls each evening. The staff at the Windjammer was just as attentive as the staff in the dining room, and we were able to enjoy our meals together at a quiet table for two, at our own pace, eating a little of everything, and leaving time to catch the show.

 

We did go to one specialty restaurant, Portofino’s, and we recommend it. The food there was of a higher quality than in the dining room, the staff was extremely attentive, and it gave us a nice experience of doing something special for an evening at a nominal cost. I will say one slight disappointment was that the ship ran out of many of the wines they offered on the list. Twice I ordered a glass of wine that they didn’t have, and I heard from others that the same thing happened to them.

 

Entertainment, activities, the fitness center and lying around

The cruise included lots of activities to keep us occupied throughout the day. I tend to bring a lot of books, settle into a lounge chair, and let the ocean rock me into relaxation on sea days. Hubbie joined me for one day, but spent the others taking advantage of many of the activities, which he found interesting. On our first and last sea days, where the temperatures were cooler and the wind stronger, I took advantage of the Solarium. I highly recommend this for those looking for a peaceful way to comfortably enjoy the sun without being overpowered by it, the wind, or the activities around the pool. The Solarium is a space enclosed in glass, with a relaxing atmosphere, padded lounge chairs and a policy of having no children. It took a while for passengers to realize how great this option was, so chairs were available in the mornings, but as the days progressed it was more difficult to find them. I will say that this ship in general had lots of lounge chairs all over the ship, avoiding the lounge chair battles I’ve seen on other cruises.

 

The shows in the evening were good. Last year we cruised with Carnival and the shows on Royal were definitely a step up. We tended to like the specialty shows, like the Beatles Review and the comedians, but the show productions were a bit tedious.

 

We spent a little time in the casino. I entered one Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament and it was fun (I came in second and so brought in a bit of money to offset our expenses). We thought we might play in some of the Texas Hold ’Em cash games, but they really didn’t get underway until after the second show, and as I’ve already stated we tended to get back to our cabin for bed after the show. (The cash game was apparently a converted Blackjack table, and held six people.)

 

I took advantage of the fitness center each morning and found it included everything I needed. There were many cardio and weight machines, as well as a free weight section and an area in the middle for classes. The fitness center opened at 6am, which was fine most days except for those when we had an early excursion on port days. I got there early and so didn’t have much of a hard time getting on to the equipment. It got busier around 8am or so. I thought about getting a massage at the spa, which I usually do, but this time around I chose to do this on one of the beaches we visited. This gave me the same level of relaxation for a full hour, but for a fraction of the cost and without the high pressure to buy products at the end.

 

Ports

 

Cabo

Having cruised a number of times, we tend to plan our activities for ports outside of the cruise line. We find this cheaper, and the companies make it their business to get us back to the ship on time. In Cabo, we booked a whale watch with Pez Gato. We’d read about Pez Gato on cruise critic, and the trip itself was great. We went in the afternoon, which allowed us to have some time to relax in the morning (we’re not big on all of those crazy tourist shops that so many tend to rush off of the ship to explore). The boat turned out to be a catamaran, and fit the 14 or so passengers very nicely. We got closer to whales than I have ever been before, which was fascinating, but also left me a bit concerned. Other, smaller boats got far too close and almost rammed the whales the second they surfaced. In fact, whenever we saw any sign of a whale, dozens of boats would race to converge on it. My understanding is that you are supposed to give whales a radius so that they are not frightened, but that did not happen here. Even our boat, which had a permit for whale watching purposes, got a bit too close for comfort. I found myself very conflicted as the view was incredible, but ultimately it was clear we were creating a lot of anxiety for the whales.

 

Another nice feature of doing side trips outside of the ones offered by the cruise line is that you get to meet people who are from or visiting the area who can offer information on other ways to visit these places. For example, we met a great couple on board this excursion and got some drinks with them before getting back on our ship.

 

Mazatlan

Based on reviews we read on cruise critic, we decided to visit Stone Island for the day. We really loved this day, and found the beach to be fantastic. We chose it because it was described as “rustic” and “authentic”, which to us just means it has a simple atmosphere, a beautiful view of the water, and absolutely incredible food (guacamole doesn’t get much better than what you get at this kind of place). We parked ourselves over near Victor’s, as was suggested, though we actually got a lounge chair next door at Lety’s because their chairs are padded and more comfortable.

 

Let me digress for a moment to give a big caveat on how to get here. We understood there were two different areas where you can catch a water taxi to get to Stone Island. When we got off the ship and took the shuttle to the tourist area (which everyone has to do), we were so focused on getting through the sea of folks offering all kinds of products and excursions, that we made a wrong turn. If you want to go to Stone Island, get through the swarm and make a left out of the shops on the main street. You’ll walk for a bit, pass the oil tanks on the left, down a stone path, to a small building with blue water taxis. We made the unfortunate mistake of turning right onto the main street, knowing we would eventually make our way to the other water taxi station past the naval base. This turned out to be a good mile walk, and the water taxi ride was longer, plus we were dropped off on the wrong side of the island and wound up taking a cab over to Victor’s. If you take the correct water taxi, you will be dropped off much closer to the beach, with a short walk down to the area near Victor’s and Lety’s.

 

Puerto Vallarta

Because this is a big port for whale watching, we tried to find a company ahead of time for this excursion. In the end, none of the companies got back to us, and we found the Deluxe Whale Watch excursion offered on the ship was pretty much the same cost and used the same company, so we booked it. The boat was a sailboat, and the crew was wonderful. As far as a peaceful, sailing day, we loved this. The only issue was that, as whales would emerge in the distance, a sailboat just can’t get there quickly and so we missed out on some good whale watching opportunities. So as a beautiful and fun sailing trip, this scores high. At the same time, if your main objective is to see whales, this might not be the best option.

 

Because we took the early trip, we had the afternoon to explore. Again, we’re not into lots of shopping so we first made our way back on the ship for lunch, then came back out and stayed close to the ship in the little shopping area right nearby (instead of taking a cab downtown). We found a small shop that allowed people to use the internet for a dollar an hour (as opposed to 55 cents a minute on the ship), and actually spent quite a bit of time there emailing family and friends.

 

Manzanillo

Last year we got off the ship at this port, and made our way to one of the resorts, Las Hadas. We really didn’t enjoy it, and because this port is still underdeveloped and there isn’t much to do, we decided to stay on the ship. I spent the day laying out on the top deck, while Hubbie roamed around.

 

Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa

We love this port. Last year, through cruise critic, we discovered the beach La Ropa, and the area near Paty’s Mar Y Mar. We actually prefer Elvira’s next door and stayed there for the day. It’s a four dollar, 10 minute cab ride there, and once you settle on a lounge chair you can stay there, get lunch (there’s that awesome guacamole again!), and enjoy the spectacular view. This experience is similar to Stone Island in Mazatlan, though easier to access. This is the port where I got my massage by just wandering down the beach and finding a place to do so under a tent while listening to the ocean. Paradise!

 

The biggest bummer of this day is how early we had to be back on the ship. We had to leave the beach by 2pm to get back to the tender pier. Last year we took a Carnival Cruise here and could stay through the afternoon. Royal’s ship leaves the area at 3pm.

 

And Finally…

All things considered this was a great trip. We did our best to plan ahead, be flexible during the day, and just try to chill out and relax. Combined with the crew, who works very hard to create an optimal experience, it’s easy to recommend this trip for those willing to make the best of things and go with the flow. I mean really, in the end how bad can a cruise be?

[SDcruising]

Thanks for your review it was full of good info. We are also from San Diego but are doing Princess in Feb out of Long Beach. Sounds like you guys had a great time.

 

~ BJ

[True North 23]

How did you get back to the cruise ship dock from Stone Island? Thanks.

[edit4ever]

How did you get back to the cruise ship dock from Stone Island? Thanks.

 

We made our way to the correct water taxi station (the location of which you'd know if you took right one there to begin with), and a boat was loading a few people when we got there. The ride is very quick (you're just going across a small body of water and can see the ship from the pier where you catch the taxi), though I'm not sure how often it arrives. Something you could ask on the way out, I'm sure...

[3onOurWay]

THanks for review,, i am pretty confused was your ship supposed to stop at Manzanillo, i don't see that listed is that instead of the extra day at sea. We are going out in Feb on the 10 day....hmmmmm

[ajknightfan]

We are leaving next month on Mariner of the Seas....very excited. Thanks for the information you provided.

 

We were on Radiance for our Alaskan cruise 2 years ago....very nice ship.

[swedish weave]

How did you get back to the cruise ship dock from Stone Island? Thanks.

 

When you get to the water taxi dock, they can see you from the building across the channel, and will start a boat toward you if one is not already there. Your 2 dollar ticket pays for the round trip.

 

When you get off the water taxi, it is about a three block walk back up the street to the cruise terminal.

[logbook]

Thanks for the great review. We are going with Pez Gato in March. Sounds like you had a great time. We can't wait!

[cruisingbarb]

Have a question about Pez Gato. We are booked in February. Their website says to bring a light jacket or sweater. Is that necessary? Is it cool or warm? Do you get wet at all (my husband is concerned about his camera)? I was planning on wearing my bathing suit and soaking up rays.

[Jay B]

We'll be stopping in Manzanillo on our upcoming Carnival cruise and were thinking of going to Las Hadas. Maybe we'll rethink our plans. What was it you did not like about the resort?

 

j

[Jiffymom]

Still so confused about the time change in PV.

It does say we arrive at 8 am. So is that 8 am PV time 7 am ship time or

9 am PV time and 8 am ship time. And says we depart 7 pm. Again is this ship time or PV time. I think it means 7 ship time and 8 pv time. Who knows?????

I am actually talking about June date. I know this has been talked about so many times I just can't seem to get it.

[portcbob]

Hi Guys..... The Mariner arrives at Puerto Vallarta 8am ships time which is 9am Puerto Vallarta local time. They are running 1 hour later than the ship. That's the information I have received????????

 

Bob & Chris.:)

[Jiffymom]

thanks

[logbook]

Have a question about Pez Gato. We are booked in February. Their website says to bring a light jacket or sweater. Is that necessary? Is it cool or warm? Do you get wet at all (my husband is concerned about his camera)? I was planning on wearing my bathing suit and soaking up rays.

 

 

Good question! I am wondering the same about March.... if we will get wet. Anyone know?

[momofzeke]

Thanks for the review. I am also wondering what you didn't like about Las Hadas?

 

Also, we plan to go to Paty's ~ do you know if there was any snorkeling from the beach? I don't want to go out to the reef, just would like to paddle around near the beach if there are any fish to see.

[sailor moon]

can someone tell me ship time vs island time for Cabo, Mazatlan and PV? Are all of these 1 hour ahead of ship time? I am going nuts trying to plan excursion times with private vendors :)

[Recce60]

thanks for the info regarding getting to Stone island. As per attachment: is the Oil refinery you mention

 

Thanks again