Back From the 6/20 Pride-Some Observations

[martyap]

There were so many great reviews recently I just thought I'd offer some observations of our fabulous family cruise.

 

1. We arrived at the Port of Baltimore at 11:30. Luggage drop off and parking were effortless. They scrutinized our two carry on pieces and checked for booze/wine. They said nothing about the travel iron in my backpack. We were given zone 22 in the terminal. They called us at about 1:00 PM and we had lunch in the Mermaid Grill. Cabins were ready at 3:00 PM

 

2. We had three, Deck 5 Aft balcony cabins. They were obscured looking down only (lifeboats) and a great value.

 

3. The Pride embarked at 5:30 rather than 4:30.....have no idea why. We went to dinner at 6 PM so we passed on any Bridge pictures. We did get some great sunrise shots this morning on the way back to Baltimore.

 

4. Food in the MDR was very good. Great choices and no complaints. Several tables in the lower level, including ours (137/139), vibrated all the time and it was quite annoying. The maitre'd really did not want to be bothered plus the cruise was full. He was incognito until the last evening when he appeared with a huge smile and outstretched arm....Completely useless!!!!! Our waiter Joseph was fantastic and I compensated accordingly.

 

5. I'm not a big fan of the Lido buffet but the choices were typical and although crowded the lines always moved.

 

6. Several in our party tried David's and enjoyed their meal.....I was content with the MDR selections.

 

7. The Pride docked this morning at about 7:30. They wanted us out of the cabins by 9. We went to the Normandie at 8:15 and took our time eating breakfast until about 9:15....it was empty!!!!! We then sat near the Atrium on Deck 2 to await our zone 18. It was scheduled to be called at about noon.....However, it was called shortly before 11:00......By 11:15 we had cleared customs, picked up our luggage and were in our car heading towards 95 North.......Effortless and Amazing!!!!!!!1

 

8. Although a full ship it never seemed crowded.......not in the shows, not by the pools, not in the Piano Bar, not waiting for dinner.....maybe in the Lido buffet at times.......small ship but well laid out.

 

9. Smoking was not an issue.....a little in the casino and aft pool but of all our cruises this was the least for offensive smoking. :)

[NewYawkYankees]

We live in Babylon and are thinking about doing this cruise. How long did it take to get to Baltimore? I'm always afraid of headaches on 95/NJ Turnpike...

[travelntreats]

Very nice review... simple and to the point without all the added info about you or your party members, that some feel is so important to include in their reviews ! Thanks