Adventure of the Seas May 7-14 AWESOME!!!

[3 Kitty Mommy]

Just back from a week on Adventure of the Seas and WOW!!! what a great ship and cruise:D I apologize in advance if I'm all over the place, but all the wonderful memories are still overwhelming!

 

A bit of background about us. This was our 8th cruise and 2nd with RCI--the first was 8 years ago on Rhapsody (3 with Carnival; 1 HAL; 1 NCL; 1 Costa). We are pretty well convinced that RCI is the cruise line for us -- unless perhaps we could get a free cruise on one of the other lines. We felt the cruise experience on AOS to be classy without being stuffy and all of the staff was as friendly and helpful as could be. Our last cruise was on Carnival Glory and we felt like we were treated a bit like we had come on board on the bottom of someone's shoe (staff did what they had to, and that was it).

 

This was our first cruise on a Voyager class ship and when we stepped on board we felt like the Beverly Hillbillies walking into their mansion for the first time. Despite the size of the ship, it was so easy to find your way around and by evening, the ship felt like home. Also, our first JS and first hump cabin. The cabin was awesome -- so much space, so well appointed, and a grea view. Great cabin attendant (Dale from Jamaica)--we hardly saw him. but the service was great. Also, amazing waiter (Yaman from Turkey), assistant waiter (Wayan from Indonesia), and head waiter (Carla from Portugal). The service was fast, efficient, but never rushed. This was also the first time I ever saw a head waiter every evening chatting with the guests and helping the waiters when needed (usually they only show up on the last evening to collect envelopes!).

 

Great weather all week and smooth seas. We visited Aruba, Curacao, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas. Since we are familiar with the islands, we rented a car in Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten from Avis. It worked like a charm in Aruba and Curacoa--not so good in St. Maarten as we couldn't find the Avis office and there was no representative to be found so we rented from a local fellow. We stayed on the ship in St. Thomas (no shopping advantages for Canadians) and had the ship to ourselves for most of the day.

 

The captain was Captain Remo and he was great. Always around, always available for pictures, kept us up-to-date every day. He also gave a wonderful history of RCI and AOS at the past guest get together. He also talked about the 9 new ships (RCI and Celebrity) currently under construction and in the planning stage. Apparently, he was a test captain (I guess computer simulation) for the Genesis of the Seas (due in 2009) and he raved about the ship. It will be 80% larger than the Voyager class of ship. We were all speculating about what it will contain in addition to what is already available. Some guesses included a football stadium and a Nascar track.

 

We did not go to Portofinos as the dining room food was excellent. However, it was mentioned in the Compass that "guests 13 years old and over were welcome". Also, during the muster drill, it was announced that there was a 1AM curfew for all guests 17 and under. We had no complaints at all about "difficult" children (or even adults for that matter).

 

Boarding was a breeze and there is a duty free shop at the Pan American pier AFTER you go through security and the scanners. This definately reduced the bar tab. Getting off the ship at the ports was also smooth.

 

We also had no complaints about the debarkation process and finding our luggage (mark your luggage in some way to identify it as it seems that everyone has either black or red bags). We were in group 5 to disembark and were off the ship by 10 and at the airport by 10:45. The biggest problem I saw were people who had forgotten what color luggage tags they had.

 

We flew in the day before the cruise, having booked our own air on American Airlines. We had a late arrival and spent the night at the Best Western located in the airport (5 minute walk from where you pick up your luggage). I highly recommend staying here for the convenience. The rooms are small but very clean and the staff is very helpful and friendly. Getting a cab to the pier was a breeze.

 

American Airlines was very helpful on our return flight. The flight we were scheduled to leave on was late coming in, so would be late leaving and we would have missed our connection in New York. They were nice enough to put us on an earlier flight so we could make our connection. They also ignored the fact that one of our bags was 15 pounds over the limit of 50 pounds and another was 10 pounds over. I still can't figure out where those souvenirs came from!!:)

 

Now you must be wondering, how could everything be perfect. Well it wasn't. First of all, the casino took our money (but we had fun and I did end up in the slot tournament final and got a t shirt for my efforts), and horror of horrors, one morning they forgot to include our orange juice with our room service breakfast. I really can't complain about anything else.

 

I apologize again for my jumbled thoughts, but I did want to share. If I have any more thoughts I will add them later. I will also be happy to answer any questions that I can.

 

While I would love to still be on the ship, I also look forward to repeating the experience at some point in the not too distant future.

[boingy300]

Thanks for posting your info! we are cruising May 13 2007 with our twin boys who will be 13. We may need to take them to Chops or Portofino's and celebrate this passage! Last cruise we were surprised to see children in Chops as we had followed the rules and asked our parents to take our boys to dinner that night. Anyway- how were the teen activities in May? I don't think my guys will get lonely. We decided to dodge the crowds of summer and go in May. What excursions do you recommend? Did you go to Aruba or Barbados? We are deep So. itinerary (Aruba/Curacoa). Any infor would be appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Karen

[boingy300]

I reread your post and see you visited Aruba and that you rented a car. Besides driving what else is there to do? What do you do when you drive around? Where do you go? I wouldn't mind seeing the Natural bridge. We are water babies - any advice? Sorry I am full of questions.

Karen

[sherin65]

Thanks for the great review. We've been considering this cruise since yesterday(when I saw it featured on the travel channel). I can't believe that casino, takes my money too...the nerve ;)

[cruiselife4me]

Kitty, You're review sounds like mine the first time I went on Explorer of the Seas! It was such a flawless cruise vacation that I had virtually no complaints but plenty of praise.

 

As a charter member of the Royal Caribbean Addict's Anonymous (ha!) we would have plenty to talk about!

 

Thanks for posting a great review and I'm so glad you had a GREAT time!

 

:) mary

[3 Kitty Mommy]

I reread your post and see you visited Aruba and that you rented a car. Besides driving what else is there to do? What do you do when you drive around? Where do you go? I wouldn't mind seeing the Natural bridge. We are water babies - any advice? Sorry I am full of questions.

Karen

 

 

Hello again,

 

We had been to Aruba before so renting a car seemed the best way to see the places that we wanted to see (not a tour). We rented from Avis (through their website avis.com) and got a compact car for about $50 (including insurance). Most of the roads in Aruba are in good condition and quite well marked but I would recommend taking a small compass to make sure that you're heading the right direction. We prefer heading out on our own so we can see what we want and stay as long as we want and save a few dollars at the same time (ship excursions are pricey).

 

Our first stop was Baby Beach on the south-eastern tip of the island (just past Saint Nicholas). It is not as well known as Palm Beach and Eagle Beach but it is gorgeous (you feel like you're in the middle of a beach commercial). There is not much in the way of facilities or organized activities here but there are also fewer people (especially if you get there early). Although it is on the Atlantic Ocean coast, it is a lagoon-type beach so the water is very calm and fairly shallow. Great for floating around on. Bring lots of sunscreen as there are few shady spots to hide and the sand is bright white. Also, bring something like a Neat Sheet to sit on.

 

After Baby Beach we drove back into Oranjestad for lunch and stopped at the Paddock on the water front near the port. The folks there are Dutch but speak English flawlessly. Thank them in Dutch (Danki or Bedankt) and they will be thrilled. My parents came from Holland so I do speak tle language.

 

After lunch we drove up to the California Lighthouse at the north-western tip of the island. The views of the ocean and sand dunes are amazing. This is also the way to Natural bridge. We didn't go there this time, but have been in the past and it is a must see. This route also takes you past all the big hotels. Since Aruba is fairly small, you can see a lot of the island in one day

 

After our sightseeing, we went grocery shopping (Yes, groceries from Aruba). I had to get some Dutch goodies for my Mom as it reminds her of the old country. If you love chocolate, try the chocolate from Holland (brand names Verkade or Drost). They are great and much less expensive in a grocery store than if you buy from a souvenir place. I highly recommend shopping where the locals do as often the prices are much better.

 

We headed back to the ship around 5 as we wanted to have dinner before going to the ice show (don't miss it!!!!!).

 

I love Aruba and find that they have made a lot of improvements, especially in their roads and signage.

 

Watching the travel channel special about Adventure makes me want to do it all over again as soon as possible.

 

I will post more details about our other adventures on this trip when I have a chance.

[PH8]

I thought the Natural Bridge fell down??:confused:

[3 Kitty Mommy]

I thought the Natural Bridge fell down??:confused:

 

:eek: Wow!! You're right. I just searched for it and apparently it collapsed on September 2, 2005. Like I mentioned, we didn't head that way on this trip. However, it makes sense now--I was reading through the descriptions of the excursions being offered and some referred to visiting Natural Beach but there was nothing about Natural Bridge. What a loss! Thanks for the update.

[PH8]

You're welcome.................was a shame it collapsed..................we're going on 2007 and would have been cool to see it.........

[HookLine&Sinker]

We took our first cruise on AOS in early April and had the time of our life. I so enjoyed reading your review as it brought back those wonderful memories.

 

Our experience was perfect, the weather superb and the ship - breath taking!

 

We can't wait to go again!:)

[HookLine&Sinker]

Just an fyi - re: the Natural Bridge - the large one fell but there is still a smaller one right next to it standing. If you haven't been before I would still go as the view is beautiful.

[boingy300]

Thanks so much for the info. I've been kind of frustrated with what to do in Aruba, since we are there so long. The car rental sounds just wonderful. I like waves....any of those around or near the beaches you can think of? I may just rent a car. Thanks for the Natural bridge info. What a loss!

Karen

[3 Kitty Mommy]

Thanks so much for the info. I've been kind of frustrated with what to do in Aruba, since we are there so long. The car rental sounds just wonderful. I like waves....any of those around or near the beaches you can think of? I may just rent a car. Thanks for the Natural bridge info. What a loss!

Karen

 

No problem finding waves in Aruba. It is always windy and considered by some to be the sail-boarding capital of the Caribbean. If you want to experience really wild waves (for viewing only) go to the north coast of the island (in the area where Natural Bridge was) and the view (and sound) is something to behold. No beaches here but the really big waves sometimes break over the tops of the cliffs. Like I mentioned, there is no swimming here as apparently this is an area where sharks come to feed (never saw one though and hope not to).

 

If you are looking for beaches with waves, try Eagle Beach on the west side of the island. The water is a little wilder than Palm Beach which is further up the coast.

[3 Kitty Mommy]

This was our third time in Curacao. First time was for a week's vacation, second time was on a cruise.

 

Curacao's beaches are different from the other islands. The sand is coarser and more rocky and the beaches are generally smaller. It is perfect for snorkling and diving excursions.

 

We also rented a car from Avis and the office is off to the left (in a little row of buildings) when you get off the ship. We had reserved the car on-line and it was waiting for us when we arrived. Driving in Curacao can be a bit more challenging since there are fewer signs and many are in Dutch. However, there are not that many roads and with a compass you can find your way around the island fairly easily. Also, the people are very friendly and helpful.

 

Leaving the pier, we headed west to the north-west part of the island (towards Christofel Park). From there we proceeded along the coast, looking for a beach. We ended up at a small (but beautiful) beach called Kleine Knip (translates as Little Cut), which is right next to Grote Knip (Big Cut). This seems to be a beach frequented by locals and dive groups (we watched one group walk in to the ocean and disappear under the water). Beautiful scenery and there is great snorkling less than 20 feet from the beach.

 

We had lunch by the water on the Punda side of Wilhelmstad (the ship docks on the Otrabanda side). While there, 2 tug boats were bringing in an oil tanker to the refinery, which was quite a sight. There are also great views of the ship from here.

 

For those who are interested, there is an Amstel brewery on Curacao. Apparently, this is the only place in the world where beer is made from distilled sea water. I know that they offer tours, but not sure when.

 

Not to be missed is a sample of the locally made Curacao liquor. It is made from oranges grown only on the island. The original brand (and sold only on the island) is Senor's Curacao. You can visit the place where they make it. If you only want to buy (or sample) some, there is a lady selling it at the pier (look for the round bottles). She has the original orange flavor and also chocolate, coffee, and rum-raisin (Yummy!!!). After buying a couple of bottles and sampling a few flavors, we floated back onto the ship to shower and watch sail-away. We sailed along the coast of Curacao to its eastern most point before turning north---an awesome sight and I can see it in my mind as I write about it.

[JENANDGENE]

karen...

 

just got off this cruise also....my recommendations would be the Jolly Pirates Sail, snorkel, swim, and swing in Aruba. It leaves in the afternoon so you have all morning to explore town. It was really really fun! And in Curacao I recommend the Sea Lion swim. If that is a little too pricey get a cab to the Sea Aquarium, definitely worth checking out!!!

 

~Jen

[Twaincruisers]

Thanks for the review. We have considered the AOS, because we so enjoy Voyager-class ships and especially the AOS itineraries. We were in Curacao with another line in Dec and our guide was a former guide at the Amstel Brewery which she reported closed down in October, 2005. I wonder if it has been reopened? We enjoyed walking through Punda to the Venezuelan seafood market, walking through the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere, and shopping at some of the many stores. Punda has several areas with outdoor cafes on shady streets or pedestrian passages as well as right at the port.

 

Was the foot bridge back in operation when you were there...it had been pulled from the water for repairs when we were there.

[3 Kitty Mommy]

Thanks for the review. We have considered the AOS, because we so enjoy Voyager-class ships and especially the AOS itineraries. We were in Curacao with another line in Dec and our guide was a former guide at the Amstel Brewery which she reported closed down in October, 2005. I wonder if it has been reopened? We enjoyed walking through Punda to the Venezuelan seafood market, walking through the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere, and shopping at some of the many stores. Punda has several areas with outdoor cafes on shady streets or pedestrian passages as well as right at the port.

 

Was the foot bridge back in operation when you were there...it had been pulled from the water for repairs when we were there.

 

Not sure if the Amstel brewery is open or not but we did have have an Amstel and on the label it stated that it was brewed in Curacao.

 

The foot bridge was not yet in operation. Apparently it is undergoing major renovations to make it look like it was when first installed.

[cruzin virgin]

So good to hear you had such a wonderful time. I'm really excited because we just booked our July 8 2007 cruise this week. We'll be doing the same itinerary, booked our two teens into a promenade cabin and ourselves into a balcony room across the hall. None of us have cruised before, so we are thrilled to get so much information from these boards.

I have been assured that the two boys aged 15 and 18 yrs will be able to stay in the inside cabin together even though we booked a parent with each of them. They won't come knocking on doors at night to make sure we're all in the correct room will they? They must know when you book two twin beds in the inside room and a queen for the balcony that you are putting the kids in their own room don't they?:confused:

[SW.FloridaPhil]

Thank you for a great review. DW and I sail this Sun. This will be our third RCCL cruise, second Voyager class ship. You mentioned the duty-free shop at the pier. I've read many posts on this subject, yours the most recent. Even though it is located inside the security points, don't your carry-on bags get scanned as you board and slide your sea-pass card into that little machine? (Can't wait to hear that familiar "ding" as you insert your card).:)

Also, did you go to any other beaches on other islands? Thanks again for the review!

[3 Kitty Mommy]

Thank you for a great review. DW and I sail this Sun. This will be our third RCCL cruise, second Voyager class ship. You mentioned the duty-free shop at the pier. I've read many posts on this subject, yours the most recent. Even though it is located inside the security points, don't your carry-on bags get scanned as you board and slide your sea-pass card into that little machine? (Can't wait to hear that familiar "ding" as you insert your card).:)

Also, did you go to any other beaches on other islands? Thanks again for the review!

 

I am so jealous!! I want to be on that ship again and hear the ding!!

 

Regarding the duty-free shop. No, your carry-on bags do not get scanned again. However, I had put our purchases into our carry-on as I thought they may take away items if you carry them in full view. The RCI staff certainly know what people are doing in that shop but don't seem to mind:rolleyes: . During the cruise when we were looking at the embarkation pictures, we saw one with the folks carrying cases of soft drinks and water and duty-free bags, so obviously RCI knows that they were "smuggling".

 

On St. Maarten we went to Orient Bay, which is still a beautiful place but crowded (and we were the only ship in port that day). We walked to the northern part of the beach to an area called CoCo Beach. Nice restaurant on the beach and much quieter. However, there are more nudists in this area--not a problem because most of them make you want to look the other way.:eek: In the past, we have also been to Maho Bay Beach on St. Maarten, which is near the airport. I'm not sure if things have changed, but it was a great place to see the big jets landing and taking off from close by. Also, Divi Little Bay has a very nice beach.

 

Have a wonderful cruise. Wish I was there!!!

[boingy300]

karen...

 

just got off this cruise also....my recommendations would be the Jolly Pirates Sail, snorkel, swim, and swing in Aruba. It leaves in the afternoon so you have all morning to explore town. It was really really fun! And in Curacao I recommend the Sea Lion swim. If that is a little too pricey get a cab to the Sea Aquarium, definitely worth checking out!!!

 

~Jen

Thanks Jen, I was looking at that, but it kind of looked like a party ship, and I'll have my 13 yr. old twin boys there. Not ready to expose them to a party ship (nor kill the party for other vacationers, you know?) The swing did sound like a blast! I know it's different from the Jolly Roger's Ship's but we used to love to watch the drunks roll off of that boat. Looked like a fun time. What's your opinion? How wild is it?

Karen

[njoyndride]

3 Kitty Mommy - We got off the ship on 5/7, I agree AOS is a great ship. Dale was our steward also, we were in 9618.

[3 Kitty Mommy]

3 Kitty Mommy - We got off the ship on 5/7, I agree AOS is a great ship. Dale was our steward also, we were in 9618.

 

:D Small world njoyndride, we were also in 9618. What a great cabin!!! Thank you for leaving it in such great condition --- other than the claw marks from having to drag you out of the cabin I imagine (and yes, I made them bigger!!!). I would love to have that cabin again, anytime. We got lucky as this cabin opened up about 3 weeks before the sailing.

[AnnJohn]

We took a cab to Manchebo Beach and it was great...beautiful wide white beach, uncrowded...it is attached to a resort...The chairs rent for $10 and there is bar service on the beach, as well as a restaurant and massages on the beach if you wish. I got the tip from Frommers.

[njoyndride]

That was an awesome cabin and the same thing happened to us, we were originally on the 10th deck behind the hump and I kept looking for something a bit better and whalla 9618 opened up. I left my platinum coupons in the safe, I assume they would through them out but I thought perhaps they'd leave them for the next passenger.