Review (with pics) Enchantment 3/31- 4/7

[vavasmom]

Day 4 – Nassau, Bahamas - Continued

 

 

After we docked, we went down to the room to get our stuff together. I had booked the excursion for today last August. It was the most anticipated activity of the trip – the dolphin swim at Blue Lagoon Island. DD and I had done the dolphin swim at Blue Lagoon with my now ex in December of 2005. It has always rated as one of the best excursion experiences – from the ship or private. We had discussed going back from time to time and when I booked this cruise last July, I decided the time was right. BFF had never done a dolphin swim before.

 

The group meeting time was 2:45 just off the ship. We debarked early and walked around the port area for a while – saw the RCCL Monarch; Carnival Fascination; Carnival Destiny; Carnival Sensation; and another smaller Carnival Ship (It looked like a Fantasy Class maybe the Ecstasy). Just behind the Enchantment was the Yacht Seanna. That is one beautiful yacht with quite the crew. BFF also saw Atlantis in the distance.

 

 

 

What we should have gone out through the secure area and to the shopping in the port. BFF saw a couple of drawings he liked on the way to the excursion but the shops were closed when we got back. I did not realize that there was no shopping at 7:00 pm.

[vavasmom]

Day 4 Nassau Continued –

After walking around and admiring the Seanna from a distance, we checked in for the excursion. It was a very large group with some of the waiting area in the sun. At 3pm we were suppose to leave but they were counting tickets and using radios to speak with someone (the ship?; their ferry?). Finally at about 3:15 we started walking to their ferry that was close to SR. Frogs. It was difficult keeping that large of a group together for the long walk. We became spread out and the guide was not very good at making sure he did not loose people. Everyone boarded and we left – stopping at the paradise island ferry terminal to pick up a few other people. The ride to the island takes about 45 minutes.

 

I was surprised at how much the island had changed in the last 6 years. They now had a full beach facility; sea loins, and a few other animals. As we debarked the ferry the group was separated based on excursion type: dolphin encounter; dolphins swim; or sea lion. Since it was late in the day the beach experience was not offered.

[vavasmom]

Day 4 Continued –

The excursion started with a brief lesson on dolphins and Blue Lagoon’s programs. We were then shown where the small lockers were located. They were no charge - we locked up the one bag that had the credit card and ids; and were provided with life jackets. The staff said that it was warm enough that wet suits were not required. We were then led to our swim area (we were swim #2) where we sat with our feet in the water waiting for the others in the group and the trainer. Within a minute of sitting down three dolphins came over. They were Abaco, Aunty V, and a baby that was not yet named. We were told to not touch until the trainer arrived. Our group was 10 people it consisted of the three of us; a family of 4 and a family of three.

Once the trainer arrived we were permitted in the water. The dolphins swam by so we could touch and a picture was taken of each group with the dolphin. Each person was given the opportunity to kiss the dolphin, hug, feed, and dance. We were probably in the water 45 minutes to an hour.

[vavasmom]

Day 4 – Blue Lagoon @ Nassau Continued

After this, we went back on the dock and each person experienced the dolphin push. I have ankle issues so I had my DD take my push. The trainer team was wonderful with the group. To do the push you float on the water with locked knees. The dolphins come up to your feet and go. You must keep your knees locked or you go in. Both DD and BFF noted that the baby was out in front during their push. One of the smaller buys had an issue with his first push (I think he unlocked his knees) so they let him go again. Note the lifeguard in my third push photo photo – he fell in while walking the smaller boy back to the dock – it was hilarious that he was the only “causality” of our swim.

All too soon everyone’s turn was over and the dolphins said goodbye.

[vavasmom]

Day 4 – Blue Lagoon @ Nassau Continued

We returned to the locker area to see the video they took. DD and BFF walked around the area. They saw more dolphins, sea lions, and an iguana while I purchased the video and photos.

There was no need to be concerned about the ferry from the island– it was the last of the day and they made sure the island was clear when we left. The employee ferry left right behind us. We made a brief stop to let people off on Paradise Island and then returned to the port area. When walking through the port building I discovered that most shops were closed. I felt bad because I know BFF was interested in something he saw. We waited in a long line to reboard the ship. The port building must have wifi – there was an area that was wall to wall people using laptops.

Once back onboard we returned to the room. It was already turned down for the night and we had another new friend (I think BFF added the room key lanyard).

Tonight’s menu was a favorite (beef shoulder with Shiraz reduction) so we took advantage of the suite benefit and ordered the dining room menu into the room. While DD showered, BFF ran to the dining room and picked up a bottle of wine from our package. Kudos to Ronnie and Jose for also giving him wine glasses. I ran up to the windjammer and made a bread plate. Dinner arrived in about 35 minutes and we ate on the balcony. DD went to meet friends as BFF and I enjoyed a second glass of wine.

After dinner, BFF and I decided to go for a swim in the pool. We walked by outdoor pools but they were setting up for the big deck party. We ended up using the Solarium pool and hot tub. It was not very crowed and very calm because we were still in port. At 10:30 the party started and we had the Solarium to ourselves. A little after 11pm we walked though the party. There was a lot of food and people dancing. While it was temping, we were both too full from dinner to eat anything. We made our way to the room around 11:15 to try and watch the running of late people. I will say that on this cruise people tended not to be too late. There were stragglers until 11:30 (all aboard time) but no last minute dashes.

We watched the sailaway from out balcony. DD came in at 1. She said the deck party was fun and enjoyed some snacks. I was sad because the cruise was now more than half over.

 

Drink of the day- Miami Mai Tai – 6.25; The Viking crown had the two for 1 house Margarita special from 3:30 – 4:30

Movies – War Horse 1:30; Tower Heist 6:00; War Horse 9:45pm all in the spotlight

Headliner Show – Matt Henry 8:45 and 10:15 – we did not attend but many we talked to rated it as the best headliner show of the week

[mare73]

Sailing on Enchantment for an 8-night Bermuda/New England in August...looking forward to the rest of your review. :)

[vavasmom]

Sailing on Enchantment for an 8-night Bermuda/New England in August...looking forward to the rest of your review. :)

I hope to finish this week - it takes me a surprising long time to write.

 

We are doing the 6 night Bermuda in June also on the Enchantment. Let me know if you have any specific questions

[mare73]

Thanks - will do!

[vivavegas]

Looking forward to reading the rest of your review!:)

[spookwife]

Vavasmom, do you have any pics of the cabin itself? including the layout and amenities in the bathroom? I'd love to get a head start on my cruise next month by living vicariously through you!

[kleo30]

I'm enjoying your review. I'd love if you could post pictures of your GS please.

[vavasmom]

Vavasmom, do you have any pics of the cabin itself? including the layout and amenities in the bathroom? I'd love to get a head start on my cruise next month by living vicariously through you!

If you click on the room number picture in post number 1(or below) it is the link to the room album. I think it has most of your questions answered (including the bathroom) let me know if that does not work.

 

 

Click on the picture for the entire album of the room

[celestial123]

Wow amazing review. I am really enjoying as I will be on the EOS in early May!!! Thanks for posting!!!

[momneedsvacation]

Tou mentioned YEP Bracelets. What are they?

[vavasmom]

Tou mentioned YEP Bracelets. What are they?

YEP is the Youth Evacuation Program. These are the color coded bracelets that identify muster stations for the kids 12 and under

[vavasmom]

Day 5 – Coco Cay Bahamas

 

 

I was up a before 7 this morning (had to hate that alarm) to make sure everything was ready to go. I had requested a cabana in response to an e-mail the week before we sailed. When I spoke to Renyo the first night he said we had been confirmed but then said there were some issues with split between the Enchantment and Majesty (we were both at Coco Cay). I had missed Renyo the prior two nights due to late excursions so I was not certain what was happening. The other difference between this and prior cruises is that we did not receive a priority tender ticket.

 

 

Once I was dressed, I woke up the others up and went to the Centrum to await the distribution of tender tickets. They started the distribution of tickets exactly at 7:30. I received 3 tender # 1 tickets for the three of us. I returned to the room so we could grab a quick breakfast in the Windjammer. It was packed this morning with people eating before heading to the beach. We had not quite finished when they called tender 1 (10 – 15 minutes ahead of schedule). We made our way down and boarded the first tender.

 

We used the maps to find the cabana area but the staff did not have a list from the Enchantment yet. We found three chairs in the shade to apply sunscreen while we waited. After a short period of time an officer arrived from the EN. His list confirmed we had a cabana and we were soon shown to our spot for the day. We had cabana #6 – the last on in the area. Our cabana was the one closest to the sign. It had 4 chairs (2 per side) in the bamboo area and 1 chair in the sun.

 

 

We had a great view of the majesty

[vavasmom]

Day 5 – Coco Cay continued

 

The cabana included bottled water; a fruit plate; 2 sets of snorkel equipment; floating mat; a bottle of champagne, and the upgraded buffet for lunch that included shrimp and steak. There is a small eating area with 6 – 8 tables. You cannot access the beach from the cabana area – it is a short walk to the snorkel beach. The cabana area also includes and bar and the Coco Cay Spa which has a small restroom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I enjoyed lying in the shade reading while DD and BFF snorkeled. The snorkeling was better than Labadee. They saw fish up close and a couple of stingrays. They held a yoga class ($12) just behind the cabana in the morning and I enjoyed the music from the tenders that went by during the day. Based on their names a few have been relocated from Labadee.

 

After lunch BFF and I floated around using one of the mats for a while and he also snorkeled again. Besides the crowds, the other downside of two ships is that you must confirm which ship the photographer is from and ensure that the scan your card on the correct register.

 

 

At the end of the day we did a quick tour through the craft mart (trying to find a picture like we missed buying the day before) and found a coco loco (yum!). The craft mart was mainly picture frames and tee-shirts. A little after 3 we decided to head back to the ship. The line was awful – it took over an hour and fifteen minutes in the heat. We should have waited to the last minute to go back and spent some more time enjoying the island.

Was the cabana worth it – I would say yes. The price was $150 and included quite a bit. Are they as nice as Labadee – no bit I think they fit the more rustic feel of Coco Cay. I am attaching the cabana information I was sent before the cruise.

Cabana Poster.pdf

[vavasmom]

Day 5 Coco Cay continued

 

Back on the ship we got ready for dinner. BFF and I enjoyed a few drinks and snack in the lounge with our new friends while DD got ready for dinner. We went back to our table in the dining room. The waiters were happy to see us (I think they were concerned that we were still upset). It was Italian night – we did the napkin waving and the waiters sung. DD and BFF were really into the napkin twirling! Dinner was excellent – BFF tried the newer eggplant dish – it was not what he expected but her enjoyed it (sorry no food pics).

 

After dinner DD met up with her friends. I know they saw the Muppet Movie at 10 and I think went to the party. We had a new friend in the room but somehow I failed to take a picture. BFF and I planned to attend the Quest but never made it. We relaxed on the balcony to pass time – the temperature was perfect. I enjoyed reading while he took a nap. When I asked if he wanted to go he said he would rather relax than go. This is the first time I missed the Quest in all my RCCL cruises but the relaxing was very nice. DD came in at 1 while we were watching the Muppet Movie on the TV. She was looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow.

 

Drink of the Day – Blue Caribbean 6.25;

Headliner Show – Comedy of John Joseph and Johnny B (7 and 8:45)

Movie –J Edgar 1:30 (Spotlight); Muppet Movie at 10pm (Orpheum)

Other Activity - Majority Rules 8pm; Quest - 10:30 pm

[LBumb]

great job

[sailingawaysoon]

Enjoying your review so far. Can't wait to see more.

[lbullard]

Day 1 – Continued

We were some of the first people in the Windjammer there – it was still very empty and we quickly found a table for 4 with a view out the front of the ship. I had my traditional first lunch of honey stung chicken; mashed potatoes, and green beans.

 

 

After lunch we walked around the ship. We found our table in the dining room - this will become important later. It was a round table set for 5 on the lower level, deck 4 of the dining room. We than sat in Boleros to review the Compass, review the plan for the week, and made a few cell phone calls. At about 1:20 we went to check on the room since some people were saying that they were available early. We checked out the room, noted the bed needed to be separated, and dropped off our carry-ons. I read the information in the room about the suite (the room key now works the lounge) and we met the steward and his supervisor. I asked about separating the bed and emptying the mini-fridge. He said that he would do both during turn-down unless we need either done right away – he is the first steward to offer to correct the bed if we needed it ASAP.

 

During our walking around we visited the concierge lounge and saw the Planning event in the Centrum. We did not need to plan anything but it was well attended. I love the way they do the piano to advertise the Romance Package.

 

We visited the library since BFF needed a book to read and then we went in search of the gym. My DD used the gym several times during the trip. It is small but it is also a small ship. Sometimes it was crowded; other times she was one of the few people there. The gym has treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. There are also several different weight machines. The spinning bikes are for class use only. DD noted they did not have any ergs or kettlebells. The floor space was somewhat limited for yoga or core work but there are mats available for use. The gym was kept clean – she saw employees wiping things down during her visits. The deck 10 track was popular many days. She did not attend any of the fitness classes offered.

 

After our walk-around, we returned to the room to check for luggage and get ready for muster drill. The drill was conducted at 3:30 on deck number 5. We walked down to our muster station, no life jacket required, and were checked in by one of the station staff. We were placed in rows to wait for the information session. During this time, the AO staff was very busy verifying every child had the correct YEP bracelet. While waiting, we spoke to two very nice women who were part of a group from Canada. At least one of them was on their third cruse in the past year (I later learned she was 88). They were not aware that it was spring break when the group booked. We had to wait awhile because I assume some people took a very long time to show-up. The muster announcements were made, life jacket use demonstrated, and we were dismissed.

 

After the drill we walked back up the stairs (including the 2 Canadian ladies) and returned to our room. I was surprised to see that there still no luggage – which seemed very strange. We had carried on some clothes for dinner but I forgot to include my shoes – black pants with white ASICS were going to be my fashion statement. The room steward checked again with us about bags since many rooms around us seemed to not have theirs yet. He took our baggage information and we decided to go up to deck 10 for sail away.

 

Great start.....now the Captain was Gus for us last time but the cruise director was the lady....can't think of her name but she is Austrailian.....so I wonder if she is on vacation....What did you think about Gus....I thought he was ok...we had another Captain before who was so so funny...ahhh....oh so my question...last time I asked for the mini bar to be cleared out they said they could not...because everyday someone comes around to see what you have drank then charges you...your thoughts...

[lbullard]

My hubby and I leave tomorrow on the Enchantment to Bermuda. Loved reading your review. You answered quite a few questions about the first day and that's a huge help.

One quick question if you have time. Are they still allowing kids in the solarium pool throughout the day? Earlier reviews from Jan/Feb said they opened it twice a day for two hours for kids. I hope not, it is our 20th wedding anniversary cruise and first time we go w/o kids so I was hoping that it would be adults only still. Not sure it will be warm enough to swim but just wondering.

Thanks!

 

 

Hey we are heading to the Bermuda Cruise May 3....I would love to hear your experience and review of what you did for excursions...who is the cruise director and any fun info especially of what is in the coupon book for Platinum....

[lbullard]

The price for the drink of the day must have gone up...I thought it was 5.50 last May....

[lbullard]

Day 4 – Blue Lagoon @ Nassau Continued

After this, we went back on the dock and each person experienced the dolphin push. I have ankle issues so I had my DD take my push. The trainer team was wonderful with the group. To do the push you float on the water with locked knees. The dolphins come up to your feet and go. You must keep your knees locked or you go in. Both DD and BFF noted that the baby was out in front during their push. One of the smaller buys had an issue with his first push (I think he unlocked his knees) so they let him go again. Note the lifeguard in my third push photo photo – he fell in while walking the smaller boy back to the dock – it was hilarious that he was the only “causality” of our swim.

All too soon everyone’s turn was over and the dolphins said goodbye.

Is it worth the cost to do this....for a family of 3 isn't it like 500.00?? Just wondering ..would you do it again?

[Arzeena]

Great review! Thanks for taking the time to post the review and pictures. I really enjoyed reading it. We will also be on the Enchantment in the end of May.