Additional Coverage:
- Disappointing photos show what it’s actually like to go on a cruise (businessinsider.com)
Cruise Control? More Like Cruise Chaos! My “Mega-Ship” Caribbean Adventure Wasn’t Quite What I Expected
My first cruise experience? Let’s just say it was more “hurry up and wait” than “smooth sailing.”
I envisioned tranquil afternoons by the pool and stunning Caribbean vistas. Instead, I spent most of my seven-day trip battling crowds, standing in endless lines, and sweating on packed tour buses.
The adventure began (not!) with a 45-minute wait for a shuttle at the Fort Lauderdale airport.
This foreshadowed the many crowded bus rides to come. Boarding the Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was no better – long lines snaked through the terminal, mocking the “Adventure begins here” signs.
Even finding a spot to watch our departure was a challenge, thanks to obstructed views.
Onboard, the mega-ship felt more like a mega-mall – crowded and bustling. Finding a pool chair was a competitive sport, despite rules against saving them. A Royal Caribbean representative explained that crew members could remove items after 30 minutes, but enforcement seemed lax.
Lines were everywhere. The buffet, water slides, even mini-golf – all involved significant wait times.
I spent three hours in line for a 20-minute laser tag game! Excursions were equally crowded.
At each port, I navigated throngs of people to find my tour group, often ending up on another sweltering bus. Even the suspension bridge I was so excited to see was packed with fellow tourists, blocking the breathtaking views.
A crew member mentioned there were around 5,000 people onboard, which explained the constant crowds. My only moments of peace were early morning walks on the top deck before everyone else emerged.
While I enjoyed exploring new places, my first cruise wasn’t the relaxing getaway I’d hoped for. Perhaps a smaller, less crowded ship would be a better fit for my next seafaring adventure.
Read More About This Story:
- Disappointing photos show what it’s actually like to go on a cruise (businessinsider.com)