Explorer or Enchantment?

[Bandit614]

The Explorer and Enchantment both leave from local ports all summer long. Both have a 5 day Bermuda itinerary. The Explorer is a bit more expensive. I understand that it is a newer and larger ship but that both ships were re-furbished in 2005. Is there anything else that would sway me to one over the other?

Thanks!

[Dave85]

I think you said it yourself -- the Explorer is a larger and newer ship! Nothing really compares to the larger RCI ships. That said, I'm sure you'll have a GREAT time regardless of which one you choose!

[debates2]

My children and I sailed on the Enchantment in 2009 and although an older ship, really enjoyed the cruise. We sailing on the Explorer this July. The Explorer has far more activities available to the kids.

[marci22]

Both my DH and DS's like Ex better than Enchantment. They felt that there were more things to do on both. I always had trouble finding a deck lounge on Enchantment.

[yogimax]

As a Voyager Class ship, Explorer will have a great ice skating show and the Royal Promenade. To me, it's worth a few extra dollars.

[kicker]

If you want Ice Skating, more room for kid's facilities, more shops, Explorer is the better bet, but both are beautiful ships. And as far as Enchantment being older, its going into Drydock (refurbishing) in late April, so if you're looking at summer cruises, Enchantment might actually appear to be in "newer" condition. That being said, I've never seen any real wear on any of the 6 RCCL ships I've cruised on.

[Shoreline23]

Of course price does make a difference but I agree with many of the other posters that the larger ship was more enjoyable. For us, especially having the Promenade and the cafe, the Explorer was more of a treat. My DW and I also enjoyed the solarium on the larger ship more than on the Enchantment - which seemed very stuffy and hot and did not have piped music on our sailing.

 

We sailed the Explorer and other voyager class ships before sailing on the Enchantment in 2009 and I had the most confusing time finding my way around the Enchantment because my mind kept picturing the layout of the Voyager class ships shich seemed to be opposite the layout of the Vision class ships.

 

With that said, both ships seem to be well maintained and you should enjoy your cruise on either one. Have fun!

[Dave85]

If you want Ice Skating, more room for kid's facilities, more shops, Explorer is the better bet, but both are beautiful ships. And as far as Enchantment being older, its going into Drydock (refurbishing) in late April, so if you're looking at summer cruises, Enchantment might actually appear to be in "newer" condition. That being said, I've never seen any real wear on any of the 6 RCCL ships I've cruised on.

 

I believe EX just came out of drydock in January/February of this year -- so it's not that far behind.