Majesty 4-day -- what a treat!

[lacruiser]

We are just back from the 4-day Majesty trip -- Miami, Nassau, Coco Cay, Key West. This trip had a lot of "firsts": first short trip (all others have been 7 days); first time to sail on a lower deck (Deck 3); first time to visit Coco Cay; and first time to sail on Majesty.

 

We had some reservations about the ship, our cabin, and the itinerary, since my last experiences with both Nassau and Key West were less than stellar.

 

However, I am happy to report that we had a WONDERFUL time. First and foremost, Majesty looks fantastic. I can't compare the old with the new since I didn't see her "before", but she looks wonderful and the level of upkeep is really first rate. The whole ship, from pool deck to dining rooms, elevators, bars & casino, looked fresh and polished. There are some differences in the layout (we were constantly trying to go aft to the Windjammer, for example), but nothing serious.

 

The Windjammer layout (now Windjammer Marketplace) is a bit different, but easy to navigate, and on the whole I rated the quality of food a bit above what I've experienced on prior cruises. The dining room experience was about the same; of course, there is no Chops or Portofino but there is a Johnny Rockets. We also got sandwiches a time or two from the Compass Deli that were good. Room service was prompt and got the orders right every time.

 

The entertainment that we saw (Dario El Gaucho and "Signed, Sealed & Delivered") were both good; the singers in particular were great.

 

Now for the itinerary. We were blown away by Coco Cay! What a gorgeous place! The beaches are lovely, the water clear as glass, and we were lucky enough to have a supremely beautiful day to enjoy it in. We hated to leave. If you love the beach, you will love it, too. RCI has done a great job of making things accessible without being too intrusive. It's easy to find food, drink and water toys, but there are also lots of places to go that aren't crowded. It's easy to walk, and there are TONS of lounge chairs.:p

 

We like to snorkel, so had booked snorkel trips on our own in Nassau (Stuart Coves) and Key West (Fury cat). In the Bahamas we snorkeled with sharks (!) -- what an experience! The Stuart Coves people run a nice operation; be aware that it takes a while to actually get to where the trip leaves from, though; definitely book the afternoon trip.

 

We booked the morning snorkel trip in Key West and were able to get off the ship in plenty of time for the 9:30 departure. And it was great that they left from the Westin Marina harbor, which is directly off the ship. The best thing was swimming with a huge sea turtle that we were fortunate enough to see the moment we got into the water, and were able to swim along with him for quite a while. Just cooler than cool.

 

Our worries about being down in steerage were completely unfounded. Now, I'll be the first to admit that I'm an aft balcony snob and proud of it. But, this was a quickie trip and we were able to snag an incredible rate. The room was small, no doubt about it, but perfectly comfortable. It had a porthole, so we did have natural light. The best thing, though, was the INCREDIBLY smooth ride we had. I swear, we had to look out of the porthole to see when we were actually moving! I've never had a cruise so smooth.

 

Our room steward, Susana, was competent and pleasant. We've had others that perhaps a little more personable, but her service was good. The dining room service was also good; I found the drink/wine service a tad slow, although the waiter was adorable:rolleyes: The maitre d' actually was visible prior to the last night, too!! Bar service was good without being really memorable.

 

The other good thing? Oh yes -- we made Diamond on this trip!:D

 

If you've considered a short trip, check out the Majesty! I'll definitely sail her again.

[Silvery Seas Cruiser]

We will be doing our third four-day on Majesty in just a couple of weeks. Your enthusiastic review just makes me extra excited. I can't WAIT!!!

 

I'm so glad you enjoyed the cruise and liked Coco Cay, one of my favorite port calls.

[Bribrittmom]

We'll be doing our fourth cruise on the Majesty next month. It's really nice now after the renovations.

[bbspin12]

Thanks LACRUISER,

My family will be sailing on Majesty in April and love to see the glowing reports. My DH and myself were on Majesty before the Refurb. Looking forward to see the changes.

 

I agree with you on CocoCay...one of the most relaxing days I have ever had on Vacation...Royal Caribbean created a beautiful oasis for their cruisers.

[krazy4kruisin]

Great review! I will be sailing on her soon, Second time on her. I am excited to see the refurbished product.

[quiltsnh]

We go on Nov 12th thanx for the review. We booked while on board the Freedom so this will be our first short cruise/small ship experience. But the price can't be beat. We loved Coco Cay when we went there about 9 years ago so we are def. interested in seeing the changes. Never been to KW so that will be fun

Thanx again

[Annefran]

Thanks for your glowing review on the Majesty! My DD & I are cruising on her for New Years Eve this year and are looking forward to the short trip (4 nights) also. It's nice to hear that the ship is beautiful. Happy Cruising!