Rhapsody 11/26 review

[blyle]

Had trouble posting this on the reviews so I am posting here.

 

First of all this was a cruise planned for my parents' 60th Anniversary. They are 80 and 82 and mom needed a wheelchair to board and walking aid on the ship. They flew here for Thanksgiving and then we left for the cruise.

 

As you can see this was our 3rd time on the Rhapsody. I chose Rhapsody for its size, manageability , Solarium and price. I was so glad I made the right choice.

 

We left home at 10:15 arrived at the pier about 11:15. Hubby dropped us off and the luggage and proceeded to EZ cruise to park. Bags were checked within minutes and we proceeded to the entrance. Wheelchair delivered immediately and hubby arrived in about 15 minutes. We were whisked to the ship and were in the Windjammer eating in no time. Went to our cabin at 1PM and got our life jackets, proceeded to level 5 since mom's walker had not arrived yet. My parents were allowed to sit in the casino during muster and they appreciated that.

 

Cabins: Thank heavens my instincts were correct. I booked low and midship and we felt little movement as opposed to those above who had lots. The cabins were the same as last year . The bedding is hard and needs to be replaced but I had no problem sleeping. It just wasn't as comfy as on our last ship. I am sure they will do this in Dry dock. The only amenity is shampoo and soap so bring all others. Hair dryers are in every room.

 

Dining: 8:30. Table 48, Kumar(waiter), Mario ( asst) and Rosario( Head Waiter) We had a large round 4 top. Excellent location and wonderful staff. Kumar had a wonderful sense of humor as do my parents so dining was fun all week. We attracted waiters from all areas. Every night Kumar cut moms meat, removed her shrimp from the shell, joked with her and dad. I can't say enough about the VIP treatment they received. One night Kumar said I am not giving you a menu because I know what you want and he did!!. They called my mom Mama and dad Papa. We ate all meals in the dining room and asked for a private table for 4 and had wonderful service. I think I should cruise with mom and dad more often.

 

Food: The food has improved greatly since our last cruise on the Rhapsody. The selections were wonderful, presentation much better. They also served a few things family style! The Tex mex was missing but available on the buffet. Shrimp served at least 6 times, lamb twice, prime rib twice, and steak about 3 times. We were impressed that things had changed since last year.

 

Entertainment: Comedian, 2 stage shows Piano man and Pure Country, A group call the Beatlemanics, Star search solo singer, juggler comedian. Perfect shows for us. Most shows before our meal except for Formal nights.

 

Music: I have to say that there was superb musical talent on this ship. The violin piano duo was absolutely breathtaking and the group that played in the Atrium covered all types of music. We loved to sit and listen and dance. They even played in the dining room.

 

One thing I forgot to mention is they had just decorated the ship for Christmas before we boarded so it was absolutely beautiful! How lucky can you get?

 

Cruise Director: Hamish, this was his last week on the Rhapsody. Lots of personality and lots of fun. He delivered a bottle of champagne to my parents in the dining room when he found out it was their 60th anniv. A nice personal touch!

 

Went to the wine tasting, arts and crafts ( made beaded earrings, bracelet and necklace) . We spent evening hours in the Casino. Only went to Derek in the Schooner bar a few times because of all the smoke there. Derek was great as usual.

 

The average age on our sailing was about 60. Hardly any children. No lines, no crowds, lots of seats at all the shows and on deck and in the lounges. This was a very relaxing , calm, quiet cruise. It was great for my parents. I did hear people who had sailed on the larger ships complaining. They felt they needed more activities but with moms limited mobility we were fine.

 

I probably would not sail this time of year again. I am glad we did it once. It was actually warmer here in Houston. It was chilly and it rained in Jamaica. It was comfortable in Grand Cayman and Cozumel but a little too cool for us to swim. I wore shorts in both ports but I am not used to wearing long pants on the ship during the day. Those from the east coast had no problem. We actually had better weather than the Thanksgiving cruise! I actually prefer March or April. I actually used the fold up rain poncho I bought! The rain in Jamaica was torrential.

 

Jamaica: The last time I visited Ocho Rios was about 7 years ago. I hated it then. This time I was pleasantly surprised that they had cleaned up lots of the riff raff around the pier. We actually walked to the island center without being bothered. Of course we did not get off with the masses so that could have helped. No one approaced us except one taxi driver. I suggest that you get off after the crowds and you will avoid the bother.

 

RCCL went above and beyond for my parents on this cruise and made it a memorable experience for them. I would not hesitate to put my parents on another cruise with them. You can also keep a wheelchair on board if you fill out the proper papers. The ship is very accessible for the disabled.

 

The Rhapsody is leaving next Sept. as we all know and the Voyager will be arriving for a short stay. No one seemed to know what ship would be here after that.

 

This cruise was better than we had expected and we are glad we booked the Rhapsody versus the other ships in Galveston.

 

If you have any questions just ask away!

[cruizinmimi]

Great review. I'm so glad you and your parents had a great cruise. And one can never predict the weather:( After being on the Rhapsody 7 times, I'm going to miss her. I really don't understand why rcl won't tell us which ship is going to permanently replace the Rhapsody. Time will tell though

 

Again thanks for the review. The crew and staff on the Rhapsody truly make the cruise.

[tkportersat]

I am glad you had such a good time. Congrats to your parents on their anniversary, sounds like it was a special trip!! Can't wait to go on Rhapsody, especially to see the changes being made. Thanks for the review :)

[odiesam]

Thanks for the review. We are looking forward to our first sailing in April on the Rhapsody and our first out of Texas!

[Mcmflow]

Thanks for the great review

[blyle]

Thanks for the kind words!

[crazy 4 cruising]

Had trouble posting this on the reviews so I am posting here.

 

First of all this was a cruise planned for my parents' 60th Anniversary. They are 80 and 82 and mom needed a wheelchair to board and walking aid on the ship. They flew here for Thanksgiving and then we left for the cruise.

 

As you can see this was our 3rd time on the Rhapsody. I chose Rhapsody for its size, manageability , Solarium and price. I was so glad I made the right choice.

 

We left home at 10:15 arrived at the pier about 11:15. Hubby dropped us off and the luggage and proceeded to EZ cruise to park. Bags were checked within minutes and we proceeded to the entrance. Wheelchair delivered immediately and hubby arrived in about 15 minutes. We were whisked to the ship and were in the Windjammer eating in no time. Went to our cabin at 1PM and got our life jackets, proceeded to level 5 since mom's walker had not arrived yet. My parents were allowed to sit in the casino during muster and they appreciated that.

 

Cabins: Thank heavens my instincts were correct. I booked low and midship and we felt little movement as opposed to those above who had lots. The cabins were the same as last year . The bedding is hard and needs to be replaced but I had no problem sleeping. It just wasn't as comfy as on our last ship. I am sure they will do this in Dry dock. The only amenity is shampoo and soap so bring all others. Hair dryers are in every room.

 

Dining: 8:30. Table 48, Kumar(waiter), Mario ( asst) and Rosario( Head Waiter) We had a large round 4 top. Excellent location and wonderful staff. Kumar had a wonderful sense of humor as do my parents so dining was fun all week. We attracted waiters from all areas. Every night Kumar cut moms meat, removed her shrimp from the shell, joked with her and dad. I can't say enough about the VIP treatment they received. One night Kumar said I am not giving you a menu because I know what you want and he did!!. They called my mom Mama and dad Papa. We ate all meals in the dining room and asked for a private table for 4 and had wonderful service. I think I should cruise with mom and dad more often.

 

Food: The food has improved greatly since our last cruise on the Rhapsody. The selections were wonderful, presentation much better. They also served a few things family style! The Tex mex was missing but available on the buffet. Shrimp served at least 6 times, lamb twice, prime rib twice, and steak about 3 times. We were impressed that things had changed since last year.

 

Entertainment: Comedian, 2 stage shows Piano man and Pure Country, A group call the Beatlemanics, Star search solo singer, juggler comedian. Perfect shows for us. Most shows before our meal except for Formal nights.

 

Music: I have to say that there was superb musical talent on this ship. The violin piano duo was absolutely breathtaking and the group that played in the Atrium covered all types of music. We loved to sit and listen and dance. They even played in the dining room.

 

One thing I forgot to mention is they had just decorated the ship for Christmas before we boarded so it was absolutely beautiful! How lucky can you get?

 

Cruise Director: Hamish, this was his last week on the Rhapsody. Lots of personality and lots of fun. He delivered a bottle of champagne to my parents in the dining room when he found out it was their 60th anniv. A nice personal touch!

 

Went to the wine tasting, arts and crafts ( made beaded earrings, bracelet and necklace) . We spent evening hours in the Casino. Only went to Derek in the Schooner bar a few times because of all the smoke there. Derek was great as usual.

 

The average age on our sailing was about 60. Hardly any children. No lines, no crowds, lots of seats at all the shows and on deck and in the lounges. This was a very relaxing , calm, quiet cruise. It was great for my parents. I did hear people who had sailed on the larger ships complaining. They felt they needed more activities but with moms limited mobility we were fine.

 

I probably would not sail this time of year again. I am glad we did it once. It was actually warmer here in Houston. It was chilly and it rained in Jamaica. It was comfortable in Grand Cayman and Cozumel but a little too cool for us to swim. I wore shorts in both ports but I am not used to wearing long pants on the ship during the day. Those from the east coast had no problem. We actually had better weather than the Thanksgiving cruise! I actually prefer March or April. I actually used the fold up rain poncho I bought! The rain in Jamaica was torrential.

 

Jamaica: The last time I visited Ocho Rios was about 7 years ago. I hated it then. This time I was pleasantly surprised that they had cleaned up lots of the riff raff around the pier. We actually walked to the island center without being bothered. Of course we did not get off with the masses so that could have helped. No one approaced us except one taxi driver. I suggest that you get off after the crowds and you will avoid the bother.

 

RCCL went above and beyond for my parents on this cruise and made it a memorable experience for them. I would not hesitate to put my parents on another cruise with them. You can also keep a wheelchair on board if you fill out the proper papers. The ship is very accessible for the disabled.

 

The Rhapsody is leaving next Sept. as we all know and the Voyager will be arriving for a short stay. No one seemed to know what ship would be here after that.

 

This cruise was better than we had expected and we are glad we booked the Rhapsody versus the other ships in Galveston.

 

If you have any questions just ask away!

 

was on the Rhapsody in last Oct & Kumar was our waiter (now I understand that is a common name and there are 2 at least waiters) did your Kumar have glasses and a cute little smile? he was great for us & quite a dry sense of humor. and he could pretty much peg our 11 family members every nght as to what we would choose. When we were back on the ROS this past Spet we asked about him & he had cut his hand bad the night before and was quaranteened, but we did see our asst waiter Cleophas and he told him hi for us. I am really sad about the ROS leaving and understand from reading posts that the crew is too. When we were on in Sept we told some of the crew that they were going our of NO, which was the origianl plan and they said they did not want to leave Galveston. Hope some of our favorites are on next Sept when we go through the PC on her.

 

Good review, thanks for sharing

[cruisecrazymama]

We were on Rhapsody the week before you for Thanksgiving. Glad you guys had a great time. Yes the weather wasn't the greatest but we had fun anyway.

You mentioned your CD was someone named Hamish, and it was his last week aboard. Rico was our CD and he took over last month from Dan. Did he mention if maybe Rico was ill or something? We really liked him.

We usually sail the same week you guys did. After all the children on our cruise, I think we will go back to the week after Thanksgiving.

Thank you for the wonderful review.

Brenda

[BonNYTX]

Thanks for taking the time to post your review. Looks like you had a great cruise in spite of some bad weather. We were on the Rhapsody July, 2005 and are going back on Jan. 2007. Can't ask for a better crew, staff AND friendly passengers.

Brenda-crazy4cruising. if you are reading this, again, for the bajillionth time, happy sails to. Can't wait for your review.

Smooth sails to everyone.

[blyle]

Yes, Brenda we had the same Kumar. We enjoyed his dry sense of humor but he also said that not everyone does and sometimes he gets in trouble. We were sure to mention him on our comment cards since that is very important for them. Sorry but I did not hear anything about Rico. Hamish was great though and a real asset to RCCL. I would agree with you about the children. I prefer the ship on off weeks when the little ones are in school.

There was some talk about the Rhapsody returning to Galveston in the future so who knows? Perhaps when the Voyager leaves Rhapsody will return. SHe could use a little updating!

[crazy 4 cruising]

Yes, Brenda we had the same Kumar. We enjoyed his dry sense of humor but he also said that not everyone does and sometimes he gets in trouble. We were sure to mention him on our comment cards since that is very important for them. Sorry but I did not hear anything about Rico. Hamish was great though and a real asset to RCCL. I would agree with you about the children. I prefer the ship on off weeks when the little ones are in school.

There was some talk about the Rhapsody returning to Galveston in the future so who knows? Perhaps when the Voyager leaves Rhapsody will return. SHe could use a little updating!

 

I sure hope she comes back. I like the small ship. we are leaving early Sat morning for Miami and our first try with the Voyager. It's going to have to be some kind of spectacular to win our heart away from ROS!!!

[crazy 4 cruising]

Thanks for taking the time to post your review. Looks like you had a great cruise in spite of some bad weather. We were on the Rhapsody July, 2005 and are going back on Jan. 2007. Can't ask for a better crew, staff AND friendly passengers.

 

Brenda-crazy4cruising. if you are reading this, again, for the bajillionth time, happy sails to. Can't wait for your review.

 

Smooth sails to everyone.

 

thanks bonnie, we will. it is FREEZING cold (well almost) here in San Antonio. I am READY for some warm weather, sunnin and sippin by the pool!!! I promise I will try to post to MFPPP while on ship. thanks for the happy sails

[Nitra]

Rhapsody is due to go into dry dock in Feb, if I remember correctly. I hope Dan is gone for good, he is one cruise director I did not like. I hear some of the crew is going to Voyager too so they can stay. Since their contracts are only on average 6 months, they could flip ships easily as long as they can find a place for them.

 

In case you cant tell, Rhapsody is my fav ship! I cannot want to get on her again in May.

[cruisecrazymama]

I spoke with our suite attendant, and she said moat of the crew is not going to Asia. Alot to do with the language barrier. But there are other factors as well. She did mention that RCI is going to have to train a whole new crew from Asia.

Rhapsody is home to me, and I also hope she comes back to Galveston. I overheard one of the cashiers in the liquer store say they are considering a radience class ship for Galveston. Not sure how much truth in involved.

I was never on a cruise with Dan. Last time we were on Rhapsody Andrew ( can't remember his last name) was the CD. I think he went to Freedom.

I'm thinking about a late May cruise on Rhapsody, but haven't decided for sure. We don't usually do but one a year, but I so want to go once more before she leaves for Asia. DH said I can go but he has to work. I need to decide if I want to take our 14 yr okd DD or rope a friend into going with me.

Happy sailings!

Brenda

[BonNYTX]

Rhapsody is due to go into dry dock in Feb, if I remember correctly. I hope Dan is gone for good, he is one cruise director I did not like. I hear some of the crew is going to Voyager too so they can stay. Since their contracts are only on average 6 months, they could flip ships easily as long as they can find a place for them.

 

In case you cant tell, Rhapsody is my fav ship! I cannot want to get on her again in May.

 

Rhapsody sure is special. On our July 4 cruise on the ROS our cruise director was not good at all!! Hamish was one of the cruise director's staff and he was wonderful, all over the place, high energy. Glad to hear he WAS cruise director but sorry he won't be on the ROS anymore. Dan the Party Man came on board the week after my cruise. I wonder what happened to the cruise director on our ship. He had no life. Just made announcements and let his staff do all the work getting passengers involved. Didn't stop me from having one of the best cruises we ever had.

I would have loved to go on the Rhapsody AFTER drydock but travel times for us hinge on DH and his business travel schedule. Does anyone know what will be replaced? Bedding for sure. Anything else?

[tkportersat]

Does the Rhapsody ever have a CD for very long? Seems like it is always someone different. I had Drew Devine from Canada last November, he was my fav CD ever.

[BonNYTX]

Does the Rhapsody ever have a CD for very long? Seems like it is always someone different. I had Drew Devine from Canada last November, he was my fav CD ever.

 

As of our cruise July, 2005 there were 4 CDs that I am aware of on the Rhapsody. The one I didn't care for on my cruise don't remember his name, Dan the Party Man, Hamish and the CD who took his place. Anyone know who will be CD on the Rhapsody Jan. 14?

[BonNYTX]

As of our cruise July, 2005 there were 4 CDs that I am aware of on the Rhapsody. The one I didn't care for on my cruise don't remember his name, Dan the Party Man, Hamish and the CD who took his place. Anyone know who will be CD on the Rhapsody Jan. 14?

 

With Drew Devine, make that 5.

[lawsoncd3]

Thanks for the great review. I too, will miss Rhapsody. She was our first ship as a family, and we had such a wonderful holiday. I've made so many friends from CC and the M&M. I wish she wasnt' going to Asia, but hopefully, someday, she'll be back, or we'll be on her in another part of the country.

 

I think I'll look at my scrapbook now!

 

Dona :)