Likes Vs Dislikes
Boarding Process
Checking in
Our check in time was 1:30PM and we arrived around 1:45. The process was fairly quick. Have passports and estas to hand if required as these were checked. A photograph is then taken which is used to identify you on board and linked to your stateroom key. After this you pass through luggage checks and board the ship.
Safety Procedures
Once on board, we had a quick look around and went to our staterooms. There is a cruise channel that provides the safety videos that are a necessary watch – if you havent already watched them via the app. Reminders are given for everyone to complete the safety procedures so the ship can set sail.
There are two videos to watch and tick to acknowledge viewing. The third and final step is to physically go to your safety muster (which is identified on the app). This is done in small groups and there are different locations for each group. Once there a staff member signed us in and went through quick safety procedures with us. This took less than 5 minutes. Once everyone onboard was accounted for the ship was ready to set sail.
Staterooms
I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the stateroom – especially the shower. The room was spacious enough to comfortably house 3 people. We had two beds and a pull out sofa. There was enough wardrobe and cupboard storage as well as places to hang items so that it didn’t feel like we were living on top of each other. If you travel with a lot of devices there are ample charging ports.
Ours had a balcony and great views of the Aquatheatre and the Boardwalk. We were on deck 10, room 323 and for us this was the ideal location as we could watch Aquatheatre performances from the balcony, but it also offered good views of the zipline and rockclimbing – which makes it easy for you to get some footage from a different angle of any family members doing the above activites.
Dining
There are a variety of dining options on the Allure of the Seas to cater to most palettes. From the elegant main dining rooms to the more relaxed, buffet-style Windjammer Marketplace, there’s something for everyone. Specialty restaurants like Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Table deliver speciality dishes , providing a more intimate, gourmet experience that’s worth the extra cost if you have the extra cash to splash.
For quick on the go options head to Sorrento’s for pizza or the park cafe for a quick bite. The cuisines onboard range from Italian, Mexican, Asian, and classic American. With its mixture of high end and mid range options as well as themed dining nights, there is bound to be a dining experience to cater to everyone.
Gym & health facilities
Running/walking track
Allure of the Seas is well equipped with facilities to maintain your health and keep up with fitness routines. There is a running/walking track that goes around the perimeter of the ship for those who fancy a simple jog or morning stroll. People keep to the correct lanes which makes for a stress-free session and as well as the little motivational quotes overhead to keep you pushing through, the track also offers beautiful sea views all around the ship.
Gym
I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the gym onboard and the range of equipment available. The space had a range of machines, spaces to stretch as well as a spin studio – more than enough equipment for those who like to never miss leg day – even on holiday!
Entertainment
Blade Ice Show
There is no shortage of entertainment aboard the Allure of the Seas. One show I really enjoyed was the Blade Ice show which featured high energy dance routines to music through the ages. The acrobatic performances showcased agility, flexibility and amazing talent.
Top tip: It is quite chilly as it is an ice rink so bring a sweater. Also, it can be quite tricky to find, you have to walk through the Casino to access the theatre.
Aqua Show
The aqua show was an adrenaline filled show featuring dancing, acrobatics, diving and high performance stunts – all set against a stunning acrobatic backdrop. This is a must see if you love acrobatic water performances.
Outdoor activities
No matter how long your cruise is you will never run out of outdoor activities to keep you and the family entertained. The allure of the seas has an array of options to suit most needs. These include: basketball, mini-golf, zip line, rock climbing, flowrider and much more.
Disembarking Process
Checking out was an easy process thanks to the app. You are notified of your departure time and location for disembarking as well as regular updates which allows you to plan your morning with a little more ease.
Breakfast is served earlier at the main restaurants, so you have time to fill up before the journey ahead.
Do bear in mind the timings can change so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the app as our time was updated and moved forward.
Top Tip: The elevators get very busy during this time so bear this in mind.
Pool areas
The main pool areas are the standard size to be expected on a cruise ship, but the adult pool areas – located in the solarium – offered a welcome space away from the crowded main pool with hot tubs and a calming view of the front of the ship.
Shore Exursions & Port Experiences
Exiting and re-entering the ship during port stops was fairly quick and stress-free. The usual security checks are conducted for bags and once you show your stateroom key and clear security you are welcomed back aboard.
Top tip: Ensure any food bought at islands is not bought back. We learned the hard way after purchasing rice and oxtail whilst at the port in the Bahamas and were denied entry. We had to eat it outside. Canned drinks are accepted.
Our package took us to 2 destinations: The Bahamas and Coco Cay. Both experiences were enjoyable.
Bahamas
The Bahamas port was lively and full of music. It had many little stalls selling trinkets and affordable souvenirs with a bank a short walk away, which came in handy to change currency.
We chose to stay close to the port, only venturing as far as the nearby shops, however there were many people offering tours within the vicinity.
Coco Cay
As this was our first time visiting Coco Cay, we were not quite sure what to expect, but it was a lovely experience. When we arrived, we were greeted by the sound of calypso and dancers in carnival themed attire. The island itself was a colourful escape with a calm vibe. We were served some tasty food (which was complimentary) in the form of quick bites like burgers, panini’s, hotdogs and more.
Customer Service
The crew were quite helpful when it came to addressing any issues or helping to resolve problems. All staff were pleasant and if they could not answer a enquiry endeavoured to find someone who could.
Cleanliness & Maintenance
The ship was well maintained. Rooms were always cleaned in the mornings so by the time we returned from breakfast everything was in order. Toilets and other general areas around the ship also remained cleaned and well looked after.
Tables in restaurants did at times take longer to be cleared, particularly during busy times, but this is somewhat to be expected. Before entering the restaurants guests had to sanitise their hands and this was enforced by staff members.
Top Tips
- Watch safety videos on Royal Caribbean App prior to boarding for quicker sailaway.
- Download Royal Caribbean App prior to travelling and familiarise yourself with ship layout, activities etc.
- Use the ‘my calendar’ function on the app to schedule activites/ shows you wish to attend. Just remember to go to guest services to reserve shows or for activities make reservations in person at the activity location. Adding activities or shows to your calendar does not make a reservation.
- If you wish to opt for wifi during your stay, purchase the package in advance, it’s cheaper.
- Iron relevant outfits in advance and travel with them in a garment bag. Ironing has an extra charge of $17 plus extra charges for express ironing.
- When dining at some of the main restaurants, be mindful if a waiter comes around with drinks on a platter and offers this to you, it is very likely this is not free and will be charged to your room- always find out first if unsure.
Final Thoughts
Although I enjoyed the off-ship experiences in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay, as well as some good on-ship entertainment and activities. The inconvenience of the onboard spending system, coupled with the hassle of chasing my funds post cruise and in my opinion the extortionate cost of simply getting some crease-less clothing make this a cruise-line I am unlikely to return to.
