May 8 Sailing - Some After Thoughts

[lauderdalebob]

Okay, my thoughts on our May 8, 2010 sailing on Oasis for the week. First, let me say I’m 58 and my traveling companion is 69, a still-working active 69 I might add. B

 

I’m not going to give a blow-by-blow description of our daily agenda, but more just my opinion on things we liked and things that could be improved upon.

 

The ship is beautiful, immaculately clean (unlike a report I read here about bathrooms not being clean – not the ones we stopped to use – spotless!) and a unique design among ships with the open interior balcony cabins overlooking either Central Park or the Boardwalk.

 

Loved the Central Park Café but only got to eat there in the beginning of the cruise once. Every other time we went back (whether it was noon or 3:00 in the afternoon), the place was crowded (inside and out, they have tables outside also, even on port days). Also a little stuffy on the inside so we opted to eat elsewhere. One day ordered room service, which was great. Got the honey stung chicken and can see now why people rave about it. Was very, very good. Room service came within a half hour or less. We did order room service for breakfast a couple of times and seemed like each time they forgot something off the list, but didn’t bother telling them since we had ordered plenty anyway.

 

We had My Time Dining and ate on the designated Deck 5 for MTD and only once had to wait to be seated after requesting a table for two, and then it was only for a minute or two. A few times they put us at a table for four but only the two of us at it so that was just fine. We never had the same waiter or table twice, and that was okay by us. Food was standard cruise ship fare. I find most of the food in the dining rooms on various ship lines is all very similar. The only thing I had that wasn’t good all week was the steak off of the main menu in the dining room, which turned out to be overcooked. Was flavorful, but not cooked right. I ate it anyway. Didn’t want to bother sending it back and that was okay too. I just never ordered it again. Actually, in the Windjammer one lunch time they had some kind of steak tidbits which was MUCH better than the steak they serve in the dining room. Go figure!

 

We did not get off the ship all week since we had been to all of the ports before and on sea days the areas surrounding the various pools were crowded if you wanted to sit right next to the pool you really had to look hard for a spot. However, move away from the immediate area of the pools and lounges everywhere, and I mean everywhere. On every deck it seemed, and if not lounges then chairs or seating areas.

 

Especially loved the Solarium Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Very relaxing and a great place to sit in the big comfortable chairs under the overhang and read a book.

 

We spent a great deal of time on the 16th Deck of the Solarium reading in the shade (since I can’t do the sun anymore, too much from years ago) BUT the bartenders during the day shift up there at the bar couldn’t be any ruder. Even though we each bought the soda package and always tip an extra dollar when we ask to have the complimentary cup (which you only get if you buy it on the first day) filled, they grumbled and slammed the cup down, etc. These two guys up there really need more training in customer service and we did note that on the comments card we submitted on leaving.

 

Regarding customer service (which I deal with on a daily basis in my job) we found MOST of the staff very friendly, however, there were those that barely acknowledged your presence when speaking to them. Some of that may be a language barrier since we did find many of the staff knew very little English, but a response to “Hello”? C’mon, that much anybody can respond to in kind.

 

Asking the few simple questions we did ask of staff around the ship during the week, it seemed like unless it affected their immediate area they had no idea how to answer, or gave a wrong answer. After having that happen a few times, we thought “That’s fine, we’ll just find it ourselves.”

 

Unfortunately, we didn’t realize until toward the end of the week that the Black Pearl Strings is the more-or-less classical trio onboard. Twice they were listed in the Compass and we went to hear them only to find out they weren’t there. One night in the Crown Viking Lounge they were supposed to be there at 9:30 as I recall. We waited until 10:30, no show. Again, listed one afternoon in the Royal Promenade and we got there and an exercise class was going on right in the middle of it in front of Sorrentos Pizza. I went over to Guest Relations (also on 5) and asked where they were and the lady said “Well, I know they WERE there.” She didn’t know what happened to them. She was apologetic and nice about it, but didn’t know what happened to them. They were still listed with an hour to play, and then we spotted them up on the platform leaving. Guess they got usurped by the exercise class. Wonderful - NOT! Not very happy about that, but then I guess RC is more about “fun” then classical music. Anyway, not a big deal but just something that was annoying since the once time we did catch them in the dining room they were very good!

 

We were in a D1 cabin on Deck 8 (8202) with the extended balcony. Upon entering we though where will be put all our stuff? As usual, the cabins on ships can be deceiving and there ended up being enough nooks and crannies to stash everything. If you leave the bathroom light on at night and shut the door the door, the door leaves about an inch from the base and the light in the bathroom works great as a night light coming from under the door frame.

 

I do like the circular design of the shower (had that once before). No curtain to blow around or stick to you. I’m 6’3” and had enough room in there to get the job done. We did ask the room steward if we could get a lounger for the extended balcony and he said he would have to check. When we came back later to the cabin that first day it was out there and when we saw him we tipped him for it. On retrospect, I would not bother getting an extended balcony on the hump on any RCCL ship because for us it was just not worth the extra month. I think we paid something like an additional $300 per person for it and my friend sat on that lounger once as I recall. To us, not worth it. All the cabins now have dining height tables, not cocktail size tables, so that was nice dining out there a few times.

 

We saw all of the shows except the comedy show, couldn’t get a reservation. Even in advance. The others I booked on line in advance and we walked right in. We saw the headliner once before on another ship so only stayed for about 10 minutes and left to do something else. Not that he was bad, but we opted to do something different once we realized we had seen him before. Of the shows, we both agreed the Oasis of Dreams show is THE one to see if you can only see one. Spectacular.

 

We had the free breakfast at Johnny Rockets one morning. Was okay. Same food as dining room. One night we did pay the $8.95 to eat at the Sea Shack and my friend said the fish and chips was the best he’s ever had and we’ve traveled quite extensively in the last 30 years. He recommends it highly.

 

Oh, we both did the zip line early on in the week when we noticed one morning while we were eating a late breakfast in the Windjammer overlooking it that there was only one person doing it, so we got ready and did it too. Lasted all of about 10 seconds but was fun and can say we did it. We also rode the carousel, and found most of the people on it were our age or older! Reliving our childhood I guess. Actually by the time it stopped two minutes later we were glad to get off as we were both dizzy! LOL!

 

OH! I almost forgot. I had a few questions of previous cruisers regarding our May 8 sailing before we went. In answer to what I had asked – I packed my 6” electric fan and a power strip in my checked luggage. No questions asked. Arrived at the cabin just fine. Also brought two 12 packs of soda in a rolling padded cooler. Again, no questions asked and arrived to the cabin safe and sound. I was very grateful for someone recommending a CORDLESS water pik for use in the bathroom. Didn’t know they made them cordless. Bought one and brought it and worked out great.

 

All in all, we had a wonderful week. Was very relaxing since port days we stayed on the ship and it was empty! And I do mean empty! Walked along the pool deck one of those port days at noon and there was NO ONE there. Not one lounge chair occupied. Was really spooky! But nice having all the space to ourselves.

 

Would I do it again on Oasis or the coming Allure? Probably not. Since the ships are so large they can only go to a few destinations and we’ve been there many times before. If you wanted just a quick getaway you can find cheaper balcony cabins now on other ships for less if all you want to do is relax and you live in the proximity of the port where you can just drive to it and don’t have the airfare expense.

 

If you are thinking of doing the Oasis or Allure, I say definitely go for it. At least ONCE to experience the ship. The ship is amazing.. You won’t regret it! Happy sailing!

[Langley Cruisers]

Thanks for this. We were also on this sailing and I would agree with most of what you wrote. Sorry about the poor service in the Solarium. :(

 

Like you, I was thinking about not writing a review per sé but more so just listing a few tidbits that will help future passengers on Oasis. I hope you don't mind if I add to your thoughts.

 

~ Found out that there is a breakfast buffet in both the main dining room and the Solarium Bistro, as well as the Windjammer. We ate three mornings at the Solarium Bistro. It was fabulous! Not as crowded, and the fruit selection is much better! This was the only place on the entire ship where I saw fresh cut up strawberries. At the beginning of the week, they also had raspberries and blueberries, but as they are highly perishable they disappeared quickly. The food is healthier here - not a single danish in sight, and they offer turkey bacon and turkey sausages. We really enjoyed this place for breakfast.

 

~ Deck 14, Port side - at the end of the hallway, there is a door which leads to a deck above the bridge. This was open every time we went there and gave an interesting perspective for pictures. There are a couple of telescopes up there as well.

 

~ If possible, book your show reservations online as soon as possible before your trip. Each night, we breezed through the line as they scan your SeaPass card and allow you in if you have reserved. The stand-by line was always long and there is a rush for seats when they allow admission 10 minutes prior. Even if you don't go to the show, I suggest booking it anyway. If you choose not to go, your seat will not be wasted.

 

~ There is plenty of free (included) Seattle's Best coffee onboard. There are thermoses set up in the Cafe Promenade, Park Cafe, Donut Shop, and I think Sorrentos. You can also get regular coffee at the Mondo coffee bar on the Promenade, and they charge for specialty coffees. Caution: DH and I found the coffee everywhere onboard to be extremely strong! Wow! We diluted with 1/2 hot water. Experiement and you'll find the taste you like.

 

~ One side of the casino is smoking and the other side is non-smoking at all times. We passed through a few times and it wasn't overly smoky; their ventilation system does seem to work. Wanted to mention this as we thought both Formal Nights would be completely non-smoking but this wasn't the case.

 

~ The ship is large and can be overwhelming, but if you are like us, you'll be finding your way around in about 2 days. Don't worry - you'll get turned around a few times but overall, the ship's "flow" is well planned and well laid out.

 

~ Now, my one and only negative comment, really...

 

This ship is a beast. She is huge. There is plenty to do and I don't think you'll be bored. You can do it all or do nothing - it's your vacation. Having said that, I would have to say that I found myself "searching for the sea" on this cruise. Because she is so huge and there is so much to do, what with all the different neighborhoods, there are not a lot of places where you can see the ocean from inside. The Royal Promenade, the Boardwalk, and Central Park are all inside. I actually found it was more like being in a Mall than being on a cruise ship. How I was dying to sit on an enclosed deck (I stay out of the sun) in a lounger and just read and watch the ocean waves. There were plenty of deck chairs on the pool decks - this was not an issue - but the covered Solarium was hot, crowded, and glassed-in. I was looking for the more traditional, shaded open deck. The only open deck was also the jogging track, and there were very limited spaces for anyone but walkers and runners. No big deal, but this is my observation and something that I sorely missed. Oasis was incredible, but personally, I prefer a smaller ship where I can see the sea.

 

Now go! And have fun! :D

[BrianAlt]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

[kmcphee26]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

 

Hahahaha that's great. Yes I would be interested if anyone onboard got wind of this insane situation so that it may be verified...

[Atimes5inAZ]

Great reviews & information! I know the Solarium pool/deck area is adults only, what about the Solarium Bistro? It sounds like a great place to have a healthy breakfast with the family. We don't have "little kids", just two well-behaved teenagers (could that be an oxymoron?).

 

Thanks,

Stephanie

[tracyanns]

Great reviews & information! I know the Solarium pool/deck area is adults only, what about the Solarium Bistro? It sounds like a great place to have a healthy breakfast with the family. We don't have "little kids", just two well-behaved teenagers (could that be an oxymoron?).

 

Thanks,

Stephanie

 

Kids are allowed in the Bistro, just not the Solarium outside area.

[catlady27]

good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

aaaaahahahahahaha

[Trevoli]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

What the....?

[Older Party]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

OH MY GOD ... I'm STILL laughing from this post. Hysterical!!!!! :D

[carkosh]

This ship is a beast. She is huge. There is plenty to do and I don't think you'll be bored. You can do it all or do nothing - it's your vacation. Having said that, I would have to say that I found myself "searching for the sea" on this cruise. Because she is so huge and there is so much to do, what with all the different neighborhoods, there are not a lot of places where you can see the ocean from inside. The Royal Promenade, the Boardwalk, and Central Park are all inside. I actually found it was more like being in a Mall than being on a cruise ship. How I was dying to sit on an enclosed deck (I stay out of the sun) in a lounger and just read and watch the ocean waves. There were plenty of deck chairs on the pool decks - this was not an issue - but the covered Solarium was hot, crowded, and glassed-in. I was looking for the more traditional, shaded open deck. The only open deck was also the jogging track, and there were very limited spaces for anyone but walkers and runners. No big deal, but this is my observation and something that I sorely missed. Oasis was incredible, but personally, I prefer a smaller ship where I can see the sea.

 

Now go! And have fun!

 

I agree with you completely! We were on the same cruise as you & LauderdaleBob. Even tho we loved the ship & had a great time (& very glad we decided to try the Oasis experience) we found it hard to believe we were actually on water when we were inside the ship (well, except for the rough day on Thursday lol). Fortunately, we had a CL which faced the water. Would never book this ship w/o an ocean view! DH & I are thinking that the Voyager Class (actually, we've always enjoyed the Freedom Class also) is our favorite. Would we book Oasis again or Allure in the future? Probably, as I could see our 2 20-something sons' names "written" all over this ship:). Would love to experience it with them when we can get vacation time together. Until then we'll probably book Freedom or Liberty in Oct or Nov since many of our favorite ships will still be in Europe. Seeing this ship was truly an experience!

 

Carol

[tright]

Thanks for the review

[sharod]

Thanks everyone for your great insights on this beast of a ship!!!! We are sailing the Allure and I am sure the info you have given here will be put to good use next year for my hubby and I!!!

[hawkfish]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

 

 

HAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHA!!! All I kept thinking as I was reading was, 'why didn't someone just throw the darn thing overboard!?! It's a flipping starfish!!' :D

[saraferd]

:D bahahaha....so true!

 

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

[leadvocal]

Good info both of you. Thanks.

 

Now, did you meet a deaf woman with a starfish?

 

Damn, had a mouthful of coffee when I read this. Now I have to go get a rag to wipe off my screen! :)

[*Sparkle*]

My sister was getting nervous about our Oasis cruise after reading about "dirty bathrooms" (bad experience on a previous cruise) This post really supported my argument that it was just one persons opinion!

[BrianAlt]

 

Hahahaha that's great. Yes I would be interested if anyone onboard got wind of this insane situation so that it may be verified...

 

aaaaahahahahahaha

 

OH MY GOD ... I'm STILL laughing from this post. Hysterical!!!!! :D

 

HAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHA!!! All I kept thinking as I was reading was, 'why didn't someone just throw the darn thing overboard!?! It's a flipping starfish!!' :D

 

:D bahahaha....so true!

 

Damn, had a mouthful of coffee when I read this. Now I have to go get a rag to wipe off my screen! :)

[ILuvCruisin']

thanks for the wonderful reviews...

 

I can hardly wait to get back on her...:p

[Puffinater]

Thanks for taking the time to provide the reviews. Good info.

[sailingawaysoon]

Thanks for the great reviews. I learn something new about the Oasis each time I read the reviews. Happy future cruising.

[Honey and Cinnamon]

My sister was getting nervous about our Oasis cruise after reading about "dirty bathrooms" (bad experience on a previous cruise) This post really supported my argument that it was just one persons opinion!

 

 

Maybe your sister should be brining on board some K-BOOM to clean some of the toliets

[RAVI360]

Thank you for the review......other then the club....is there anything to do after 12am?......or does everything shutdown....thinking about sailing on her next year in july

[mechcc]

Maybe your sister should be brining on board some K-BOOM to clean some of the toliets

 

And maybe they should check under the toliet seat for dead starfish.

 

Honestly - don't you realize that the OP posted that they had found the ship imaculate as a response to YOUR review?

[mechcc]

Lauderdale Bob and Langley Cruisers - Thank you very much for a more honest review of that cruise.

[Langley Cruisers]

....is there anything to do after 12am?......or does everything shutdown....

 

Everything is still open at midnight (except the stores). The lounges and casino are still going strong. If you are a night-owl, you will find lots to do. The Cafe Promenade is open 24 hours for free (included) snacks and coffee at any time, should you get a little hungry in the wee small hours. You can check your Cruise Compass (printed newsletter) for the exact hours.

 

Have fun. I'm sure you'll enjoy Oasis. :)