Ben O.

Age: 41
Occupation: Management
Number of Cruises: 1
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
Ship: Monarch of the Seas
Sailing Date: June 20th, 2005
Itinerary: Baja, Mexico

This was the first cruise for my family and I (we have two kids 11 and 14). We enjoyed the experience and look forward to doing this again.. maybe trying one of the other liners for a change.

Embarkation: Was very smooth, we got on the ship at about 3pm....and immediately went to grab some lunch at the Jade buffet (recommended by other reviews). We had some problems locating the Jade.. and ended up eating in the Windjammer instead. We recommend eating in the Jade, less people and more open seats. Luggage arrived at our room with no problems. Recommend you arrive at least by noon. You can eat and get to know the ship with less of a crowd.

Ports: Visited the Midway in San Diego, that was worth the money, kids had a blast. Rented golf carts in Catalina, had a great time touring the island in the carts!! Ensenada, took the tour to the blow hole, and shopped at the markets there. Recommend the markets at the Blow Hole, they will wheel and deal with you more so than the shops in the downtown area. Was able to talk shop owners down 2-5 dollars from asking price for our purchases. Great deals!!

Ship Accommodations: Room was considerably smaller than we expected, but comfortable. Ship has some rough edges, shows its age, but for the most part is kept up very well. Make sure you bring clothes that do not need ironing. You cannot bring an iron. Room Attendant was very nice...made small towel figures for us each evening. Food was excellent in all the restaurants and the main dining area. Only disappointment was no lobster in main dining area, nor was it offered on formal night. Waiter was excellent, he arranged a small birthday celebration for both of our kids (birthdays were in June and July, within 3 weeks of each other).

Debarkation: Was very smooth, exited by color codes. Bring something to do like a book or games because you will be waiting a long while. People recommended that we make sure we bring our passports...passport line is supposed to be faster....well it wasn't. The birth certificate line was moving a lot faster than our line.

Overall: We had a great time...not too many things to do for my teenaged daughter, but she still had a good time. My son spent most of his time at the game arcade...and in the pool. They both enjoyed the rock wall..!! If you are looking to relax it will have to be in your stateroom. It can get crowded in the public areas. We definitely are hooked...and would do this again!!

 

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