Julieinoregon

We did Pacific Coastal on Explorer last September, and are repeating the cruise this year, as we loved it so much and it is an awesome deal (as we live in Seattle).

 

Agreed on the coconut cookies being awesome! For some reason they were nowhere to be found later in the cruise though. I'm a big cookie fan, and usually snag some to keep in the room, especially for that dead time in the late afternoon when the Windjammer is closed and I always seem to be really hungry (especially on port days).

 

The promenade cafe and windjammer both had cookies at least in the afternoon, varying selections. I think the cookies were one of the better desserts. It tastes like they use cheap ingredients in the desserts, as many didn't really taste as good as they looked. Creme Brule was nowhere as rich as I am used to, but it was an option every night, which is very cool, as I don't get it much and am used to paying $10 at a fancy restaurant for it.

 

We did most meals in the Main Dining Room, as the couple meals we tried in WJ weren't great, and it is a pain to snag a table, get food, get beverages, and eat while the food it still warm. I didn't really think there are too many don't miss type of items, but I disagree with many of the RCI food complaints.

 

We were impressed by the MDR food and service, especially having gone on NCL our last two cruises (I think RCI food is way better, and I'm not a foodie at all). We had MTD and were sat in the back every night, and I think that helped us get quicker service and warmer food, so I plan to ask for that again.

 

They never asked us if we wanted to sit with others or not, and we ended up eating dinner at a table for 2 each night, and most mornings. We may try to ask to sit with others this time. Even though we booked very early, traditional early seating was already booked, but I kinda wanted MTD again anyways, as early seating is a tad early, especially on port days.

 

My husband's favorite MDR selection was prime rib (I think it was on the first formal night, when they do lobster?), and mine was a cheese tortellini. The chilled soups are yummy, like a smoothie. We also did Chops one night, and I absolutely loved a starter salad that had apple, cheese, and nuts I think (but it looks like they may no longer have it?). It looks like they are changing the MDR menus too. Not sure we'll do Chops this time if its $49pp + 18%. Especially as I'm a picky eater and don't do most meat, including steak. I'll admit I ordered the kids menu mac & cheese a couple nights in the MDR. My husband said the steak had nothing on most of the top steakhouses in Seattle we frequent, but he enjoyed it nonetheless.

 

Breakfast in the MDR is awesome too, as you don't have to deal with the crowds, find a table, make multiple trips if you want more than one beverage and one plate, etc. They had a buffet set up in the middle with all the usual stuff (both hot and cold), and/or you could order the same stuff (plus a few specialty items like omelets) off the menu to get it fresh.

 

Lunch in the MDR on sea days was also nice, with a pretty big menu selection, plus some buffet things (at least a salad bar where wait staff would make you a salad, chopped & mixed with dressing). I never tried the cafe promenade pizza, but I've heard its not great. The soft serve machine on the pool deck is not ice cream or real fro yo, but its included and quite tasty (I recommend choc/vanilla swirl).

 

I think the main thing that is lacking food wise on every cruise ship I've been on is snacks. I'd love to be able to have snack options available at all times besides pizza/sandwiches/cookies in the promenade cafe. Things like fruit, raw veggies, trail mix, candy, popcorn, etc. I often bring snacks with us lol, at least some gummy candy (as I often want sugar but not a full on dessert) and some packaged stuff for shore time. I remember they were actually selling some sort of snacks (popcorn and candy?) prior to the ice show. That sort of stuff should really be included.

Thank you very much for this post. You really gave a lot of important information and I appreciate it! Julie

There is a very popular vacation website which I can not post here that you can change the pricing on the whole 90 day ticker page to single so you can see the prices.

Thank you all for the info. I have zip baggies and plastic containers ready to go. I have a small carrying bag that will be perfect.

Gee, I thought the purpose of a lanyard was to hold on to your sea pass so you don't lose it.:cool:

I didn't know it was to show your importance.:rolleyes:

My mistake.:evilsmile:

Has anyone ever seen anyone put food from wj in plastic bags or containers? I'm thinking fruit or desserts for a snack later.

I made a lanyard that looks like a beaded necklace. I will just clip the plastic case onto it. I thought I might look more original!

I'm not sailing till May 14th, but I will try to bring water and see what happens. Thanks.

Hi everyone,

I'm a solo traveler from Oregon. I'm going on the Explorer of the Seas on May 14 for a short 4 night rt from Seattle.

I try to find solo rates lower than the 200%, but find it very difficult. Any tips are appreciated. Thanks, Julie

I think you all are lucky. I resent the fact that I can bring wine, which I don't drink, but can't bring water which I do drink. It doesn't make any sense to me.

Thank you very much for your travel log. I tend to prefer the smaller ships myself. I need relaxation, not all the bells and whistles!

My cruise is coming up in May. I will probably go to Johnny Rockets no matter the cost because I don't have access to this type of burger joint where I live. I love the music they play. To each his own. Don't go if you don't want to. Maybe RC will end up lowering it if business drops off, or maybe that is what they want? Maybe it's not a money maker ;)

Bob, thank you very much.

What kind of deals and credits do you get when you book onboard? Is it worth it to wait till you sail to book? Are the benefits any different if you book a specific cruise? Tia.

I must say, this is an interesting topic. I just booked my first RCI cruise in awhile. Then I applied for the cc. I will use it to pay off the balance, then look into the Capital One card. Thanks for the info.