My Long Majesty Review

[cruzeluver]

We are home, unpacked, trying to regain our land legs, and already reliving our great week on the Majesty. I will attempt to give as much detail as I can, and am happy to answer any questions I can. Here goes.

 

Embarkation: If you are being dropped off, do not get in the line of cars. We were dropped off at East Bay and Market Streets, walked one block to drop off our luggage, took the shuttle to the terminal, and were processed and onboard in about 30 minutes. As we walked into the terminal we were handed a revised itinerary. It explained that due to continuing engine problems, it was decided that the ship would not make its scheduled call at Grand Cayman. We were a bit disappointed, as we were really looking forward to swimming with the stingrays, but it hardly ruined our vacation. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised that instead of being stuck with an additional sea day, it was arranged for us to have two days in Cozumel. This was great as we were able to see and do far more then we could have done in one day.

 

The ship: I honestly do not get the criticism this ship gets. No atrium, big friggin' deal. Instead of overwhelming passengers with neon, bright colors and cheesy decor, the Majesty can best be described as comfortable. The colors are soft, relaxing and very easy on the eyes, especially after a long day in the bright Caribbean sun. There are some signs of rust on the upper decks, but we are talking about a 14 year old ship here people. I thought she has been very well maintained. One advantage she has over a lot of newer ships is lots of wood and brass, not much plastic. The Palace Theater is small, and the low ceiling takes some getting used to, but we always managed to get good seats. The Rendevous Lounge became a favorite spot to unwind or just relax between activities. Big, comfy chairs, warm atmosphere and prompt service from the bar. The casino had the best ventilation I have ever encountered on a ship. Despite a lot of smoking in it, it never was overwhelmingly "smoky". The Polo Club is a great lounge for relaxing, having a cocktail, and listening to the piano player. It was also used for meetings and the art auctions. The Crossroads lobby is very attractive, with a lot of marble, tall plants, and more comfy chairs.

 

Food: For us, the new menus were a big hit. Nearly everything was wonderful. The only thing I didn't care for was the gnocci served one night at dinner. It was mushy and pretty bland. However, the lobster, beef wellington, all fish dishes, cold soups ( so glad those are back!), crostada and salads were terrific. Desserts were very good as well, with creme brulee, chocolate souffle, and apple tarts being the best. We are not huge buffet eaters, as I'm not a fan of walking around carrying a tray like a third grader, picking food off a steam table. However, we did have breakfast twice and lunch once at the buffet this time, and thought the food to be pretty darn tasty (the exception being the bland, watery scrambled eggs). The deck barbecue is not to be missed. Ribs and chicken were great, with a rich, smoky flavor. Small buffets were set up each evening at the Rendevous Lounge, in the casino, and a few other places for late night snacking. These were primarily small sandwiches, cookies and fruit. Wednesday night we had dinner at Le Bistro. More than worth the additional charge! The cream of mushroom soup was probably the best soup I have ever had (all heavy cream and butter, what's not to love?). The boullibase was thick, and generously full of shrimp, fish, scallops and mussels. The escargots were decadent, and among the best I have had. And the service in Le Bistro is above reproach. I highly recommend you make it to Le Bistro.

 

Entertainment: Overall was very good. The singers and dancers were talented and very energetic. This was their last week on the ship, in fact we caught a bit of the group taking over in a rehearsal. They performed four shows, and we enjoyed them all. Comedienne Patty Ross was hysterical! She did two shows and was a panelist for the Liar's Club game show. Her style is somewhat like Roseanne Barr, but not quite as grating. We ran into her in the elevator, and she was actually very warm and friendly. Hypnotist Joshua Seth was a lot of fun, in fact my partner was one of the people called up to be hypnotized. Great show. The only show we didn't care for was Sonny Rose. I hate to sound mean, but is this guy for real? At first we thought it was a joke. He is every cliche of a bad Vegas lounge singer, from the cheap toupee, to the loud clothes, and the constant wiping of sweat from his brow with a towel. He had a decent voice, but most of his between-song-patter was telling the audience about all the famous people he knows.

 

In port: Because of the itinerary changes, shore excursions had to be rescheduled. We were still able to do the Fury catamaran snorkle and beach party in Cozumel. We had a blast, despite the rough seas that day and the occasional rain shower. We were very fortunate that we were able to dock at Punta Langosta both days in Cozumel, as most ships are still tendering. Our first day we were docked next to the Norwegian Dream and the Costa Magica. Day two Splendour of The Seas and Disney Magic shared the dock with us. We did the usual shopping and got some great deals. We ate lunch downtown and had some of the best enchiladas ever. We arrived on time in Key West, but keep in mind all passengers must go through immigration here, even if you do not plan to get off the ship. This went very quickly, and we were in downtown about 45 minutes after docking. The trolleys are plentiful to run people back and forth from the ship, and the ride takes about ten minutes. We also got a nice little narrated tour of the island from the driver. We walked around downtown for about an hour, then headed over to Mallory Square for the famed sunset, which did not disappoint. What a gorgeous sight! We watched a really fun magician as the sun was setting, and our friend who was with us on this trip was picked to be his assistant. Great fun! We then headed to the Hog's Breath for chicken wings (very, very good) and souvenir t-shirts. Lastly we popped into the Blonde Giraffe for key lime pie, wow!!

 

The crew: Everything we had heard about the crew on the Majesty was true, and then some. They work extremely hard, but always with a smile. Evryone from cabin stewards, dining/bar staff, maintenance and entertainers always managed to say a hello as they worked, and seemed genuinely glad to do whatever possible to make it a great cruise. They deserve every bit of praise they receive.

 

Disembarkation was somewhat slow, however, there could have been some issue beyond their control. We were the second to last group called, and we were off by about 10:15. Customs and luggage retrieval went very smoothly.

 

I cannot end this without addressing some of the negative things I had read prior to and during our trip from fellow passengers. If your vacation is going to be ruined by missing a port, do us all a favor and not go on a cruise. One evening I overheard a man tell his wife he couldn't wait to get his hands on a comment card to tell them what he thought about the itinerary changes. I heard a woman yelling at the reception desk that the size of her cabin was unacceptable. The poor crew member remained calm, appologized, and tried to explain that the ship was full, and therefor there was no larger cabin they could move her to. Her response? "Can't you go on the loud speaker and see if anyone would be willing to trade with me?" :rolleyes: It was amazing to me how many people onboard apparently booked this trip without knowing anything about the ship. All week I heard people griping that the ship was too small, the cabins were too small, they couldn't believe how short the stay was in Key West. People! Its not like any of this was kept a secret. I actually heard this one lady (and I use the term loosely) negatively compare this cruise to her previous one on Crystal !!! It took everything in me not to walk up to her and say "look you idiot, I am fairly certain you paid a heck of a lot more for your Crystal cruise then you did for this one. What on Earth did you expect?" Our cost came to about $75 a day per person. We got far more then what one should expect for a cruise that inexpensive.

 

So, as long as your expectations are in check and you go with a positive attitude, I am sure you will enjoy your week on the warm, friendly, fun-filled Norwegian Majesty.

[jentroubles]

Cruzeluver,

 

Thanks so much for you review-- I must admit I've been waiting all morning for it to appear. Thanks for taking the time to make it so detailed.

 

A few quick questions.

 

Menus--- are they the same that have been posted for the Dawn? If so, were the days in the same order? (they are posted here) http://www.kast.org/NCLDawnMenus/

 

 

LeBistro- Did they offer the discount for 5:30 and 6:00 reservations? Did you see anyone getting the fondue? (i've heard other ships still have on request)

 

Cozumel- do you remember the name of the restaurant with the enchiliadas? Also, beach party-- was that at Playa Mia? If so, what did you think of it?

 

continuing Engine problems-- can you elaborate? (or is should say did they elaborate?)

 

Onboard- How were the activities? Did they have a fair number? Trivia?

 

Thanks so much in advance-- we are scheduled for the New Year's Cruise and can't wait!

[bakechef]

Thanks for the review. My partner and I will be on the majesty next month, and are looking foreward to it. I think that you hit the nail on the head about people not knowing anything about a ship before boarding, either they needed to research the net, or if that's not their thing than their travel agent needs to give them this info, thinking that a cruise line is pulling one over on you because a ship is small is crazy. :(

 

And I agree I am expecting a nice trip, but for the money paid, and the size/age of the ship, I am not expecting the same experience as my last cruise on the RCI Voyager (although I bet the service will be better).:)

 

Thanks

 

MAC

[cruzeluver]

jentroubles-

 

Here are my answers to your questions:

 

The menus are the same as posted for the Dawn, and they were in the same order.

 

Le Bistro did have the 50% off for 5:30 and 6:00 reservations. Did not see the fondue listed. However, my partner proclaimed the chocolate mousse the best, and my apple tart was exceptional.

 

Can't remember the name of the restaurant in Coz, but its right next to the Hard Rock Cafe. Highly recommended. They also had a mariachi band playing and we got great pics with them. The excursion we did was the Fury Catamaran Snorkle and Beach Party. Great excursion! The crew was terrific, the margaritas great, and the private beach was a lot of fun, and not overrun with people, as it is only for those on the Fury excursions.

 

All we were told about the engine problems, was that although repairs had been made, futher repairs were needed, and had we tried to go to Grand Cayman, our time would have been cut short, and it may also have impacted our time in Cozumel. They were very apologetic, and like I said, the additional time in Coz, plus docking both days, made for a nice stay there.

 

Onboard activities were plentiful and well attended. There were at least two trivia contests per day (we won two!!), bingo out the ying-yang, three art auctions, cooking demos in Le Bistro, karaoke every evening, martini clinics, ping pong tournaments, sing-a-longs, line dancing lessons, a sock hop etc. We were not hurting for things to do!!

 

Hope you have a wonderful time, we sure did.

[cew1]

Cruzeluver, Thanks for the review, Glad you had a great time. Looking forward to leaving on Saturday.

Cliff

[jentroubles]

cruzeluver

 

Thanks SO much for the replies. We are recent converts to NCL and have done the Spirit and the Dawn so far this year, so we know what to expect. We've also learned how great these boards are for insider info.

 

We are big fans of lebistro, and heard that even if it wasn't listed, you still might be able to get it.

 

My sympathies on the post cruise withdrawal that I'm sure youare going through and thanks again.

[heelfan94]

Great review. We're leaving on the Majesty on Saturday.

 

Quick question....did the ship leave Cozumel after the first day so the casino and shops could be open, then dock there again for the next day? Thanks in advance. :)

[cruzeluver]

Yes, we did leave Coz at the end of the first day, and returned the next. We docked Tuesday from 9:00-8:00. Drifted overnight, and docked Wednesday from 9:00-3:00.

[heelfan94]

Yes, we did leave Coz at the end of the first day, and returned the next. We docked Tuesday from 9:00-8:00. Drifted overnight, and docked Wednesday from 9:00-3:00.

 

Thanks! I really don't mind the extra day in Cozumel if our itinerary is changed, too. Grand Cayman is nice but it won't ruin my trip if we don't go. Actually, I think only one of my cruises went by the original itinerary. Anything is better than the snowy weather we have here! :)

[jentroubles]

I don't think I'd be that upset either. As long as you get a few days on a beach--any beach, i'm happy :)

[saw1953]

cruzeluver, thank you for the review. I'm glad someone finally said something good about this ship. We like to smaller, older ships even though they don't have all the bells and whistles that the newer larger ones have. We have been to all 3 of these ports more than once so missing one won't be the end of the world for us. Could the restaurant in Cozumel have been Pancho's Backyard? It sort of sounds like it was. I'm glad you had a good time. We sail for New Year's and can hardly wait.

[whatawonderfulworld]

Thanks for posting such an informative post. It sounds like you had a terrific time. I enjoyed the read.

 

Ciao,

 

W A W W

[macdays1]

Great review! I am a huge fan of the Majesty, and it's so nice to read a positive review. I'm glad you had such a great time.

[GrannyMouse]

Thanks for the great review!! We leave on 1/27/07. Just wondering about the menu - are there alternates you can order if nothing appeals to you on the menu? On Princess you could always get a steak. The first night looks a little iffy!

[guinnessirish]

LOL! I loved your review! I remember hearing someone complain on a cruise that they were pissed off about having 2 twin beds. Hel-lo it's a cruise they are almost all twin beds! I agree about the small ships too. Who needs a rockwall or an ice skating rink-not me! Besides its easier to meet people on smaller ships and the food is better.

[cruzeluver]

GrannyMouse-

Although its not specified on the menus, you can always have a steak or chicken breast if nothing appeals to you.

[noobiecruiser]

Great review! Thanks for taking the time to post. We're anxiously awaiting our turn on the Majesty. :)

[rcrj762]

Thanks for the great review. We are looking forward to being on the Majesty for Christmas.

[weary traveler]

you hit the nail right on the head as far as the Majesty... been on her 10 times and would sail her another 10 times...it is the most comfortable "home" at sea... no glitter no glitz.. just great service, comfortable settings and no rush, no fuss .... just the way i love to relax and enjoy a vacation...the ports are just a plus in my book.. big hello to macdays... hi there neighbor..! I just love to hide in the Rendevous seats and watch TV

 

Weary Traveler

[mer_luv_vaca]

I was on the Dec 2-9 cruise on Majesty! We had a blast! Have to tell you, the water was awfully active and the small ship was very very rocky!

My family stayed on Dramamine for the week, but I never had a problem!

The food was pretty good. Not the best, but good. The crew was awesome! Look for Marisol. She is awesome! She works in the 7 seas dining room and in the Polo club and in the Disco! We just loved her!

It was a very rocky cruise! I want to take a bigger ship next cruise I think!

I wish we had stopped in Cayman, but we had a blast for the two days in Cozumel!

We did the Deluxe Beach Break the first day and enjoyed laying out, open bar, kayaking, snorkeling, water trampolines, open buffet and lots more! It was a blast!

We got back into town with almost 3 hrs to spare, so we hit Carlos and Charlies for drinks and apps, and then Sr. Frog's for some really REALLY good times!!

We danced and somehow left the place with over 30 shot glasses between 5 of us! It was so much fun!!

(dont worry, the shot girls come around to dance and their pre-made shots are not very strong at all) but, a very VERY fun time!!

Go there if you get the chance!!

The next day we Parasailed over the gorgeous Cozumel sea! It was really pretty, but also pretty scary! The guys running the thing hardly spoke english, and they did'nt give very much instruction on safety. You were just kinda yelled at and put in the harness. They drove the boat so fast that everyone was hanging on for dear life. It was like they just wanted to get us in and out. No concern about anyone being a little timid or anything! I dont really recommend that excursion!

I would do it in Key West again maybe....If the people took the time to explain safety.

Those guys took us way off into the sea and turned that boat on the waves and could care less that we were scared!

Not my favorite thing at all!

Alas, afterwards, we met up with our crew and had a great lunch at Palmeros. It is a great place to eat! Its an open air restaurant beside a park. Look for it!

We bought silver and Vanilla of course and had a great time looking around!

 

Key West was by far my favorite place! We just had the best time there. We strolled the streets and hit all the famous spots like Hog's Breath and Sloppy Joe's. It was so much fun!

We ended the day with a key lime pie dipped in Chocolate on a stick! So good! Not enough time there though, and the cruise staff was a little unorganized at getting us all through customs and to the right check in spots. Kinda upsetting because we did'nt have much time there to begin with, and we spent over and hour and a half going through all that bull!

 

All in all, a great time! The ship is small enough to get to know other cruisers and staff very well!

 

At the end of the day, I would have to say the Freestyle dining is not my thing. I actually like having the same serving staff at dinner every night! I like the formality of dressing up on cruises. This was so laid back, and so casual.

Its fun, you will have a great time! Dont worry about Cayman. Once you've been to one tourist Island, you've been to them all! Make the best of it and enjoy!

Have fun guys!

 

I cant wait to cruise again in 07!:rolleyes:

__________________

--==Meredith;) --==Meredith<img"]

[mer_luv_vaca]

:p Oh and Ryan..

Did you go to the art auction?

My BIL bought all 4 of those paintings that were like,

all the people were in large hats...remember?

There was like one where it was just a sexy lady in a huge hat and you could'nt see her face, and then one were its a casino and everyone has on the hats..

Do you remember them?

They were hanging on the hallway outside the dining room!

He bought all 4 for like $2600.

Pretty good deal I guess.

 

I think I spotted you and your husband at one time, but I did'nt want to yell out to you just in case!

We had a 1 yr old baby girl with us. My neice Ava. We were in a large group of 6 and we were together everywhere!

You may have seen us!

Oh, and my dad also was hypnotised! It was so cool!

He was the old guy with the big belly that fell out in the audience and came up last!! Do you remember? He was the one that coul'nt remember the number 6 or his name! It was hilarious!

He doesnt like to talk about it! He doesnt seem to remember a thing! He is almost embarrassed of it!

My mom bought the dvd but has'nt shown him yet b/c he still acts weird about it all.

He remembers the rap part and thats it. He says he must have come out of it then. He walked off stage and just couldnt figure out why he was up there!

It was really funny!

Anyway, we had a blast too!;)

Glad you guys did as well!

It was so fun, and Im kinda sad its over!:(

Peace

[mer_luv_vaca]

Hey Ryan!

I think I spotted you and your husband once or twice, but I didnt want to yell out to you just in case it wasnt you!!:p

Anyway, my BIL bought all 4 of those paintings with the hats. Do you remember them?

There was the one with the sexy girl over the craps table with the huge hat on that covered her face!

Then there was one in a casino and everyone had on the big hats. He bought all four of them that hung on the wall outside of the seven seas!

 

My dad also was hypnotized! He was the short old man with the big belly that fell under in the audience and went up very last! He was the one that forgot the number 6 and his name! It was sooo funny! He cant remember a thing about it! He almost gets bothered when we bring it up!! My mom bought the dvd but he wont watch it! He is embarrassed or something I guess! It was very strange to say the least!!

 

We had a 1 yr old baby with us (my neice Ava) and had a group of 6. We were together everywhere so you may have seen us at least at some point!

 

I agree that the staff was awesome!

We had the greatest time!

Im so glad you all did too!

Wish we could have met up, but there was just so much going on on the ship!

When I got home I was sleep deprived! We just had the best time!

 

I loved Key west! I want to move there! That is the coolest place ever!

I hate we did'nt get to stop in Cayman, but Cozumel for 2 days was awesome!

:cool:

Peace!!

 

Have fun everyone getting ready to sail away!! Wish I was there!

It ended too fast, so soak in every moment!:rolleyes:

[mer_luv_vaca]

OOPS!:o

 

Sorry...I didnt think that first one posted so I re-wrote the same thing!

Oh well!

Peace:cool:

[mer_luv_vaca]

OOPS!:o

 

Sorry...I didnt think that first one posted so I re-wrote the same thing!

Oh well!

Peace:cool:

[mer_luv_vaca]

Dang!!

LOL!!:D