New ship review

The online check in process is certainly improving the process for arrival/embarkation, except the priority for return customers has gone. Beautiful ship, very clean however a few inaugural season issues, mainly for me with lack of sound proofing – the vacuum flush in surrounding rooms sounds like a huge lift door being slammed and then the sound like a swimming pool had been upturned. I appreciate very much that they took this seriously. The facilities on board are excellent, shows stunning and while dynamic dining took some getting used to, it was good, although I feel the themes could be taken further – example Silk the Asian restaurant have chopsticks available and play appropriate music. Having a dietary requirement I found it very difficult to choose from the menus, despite them saying they offer options, so got very bored with same couple of offerings over the 13 nights. Previous experience of menu choices with royal Caribbean was much better, better range, better quality. I really miss seeing the ice and fruit carvings and the midnight buffet. Without a central restaurant we also lose the singing, dance parade by chefs and waiting staff, all things which made a cruise “wow”. My room attendant was fabulous and demonstrated her artistic skills with towel art many nights, which made me smile on returning to my room. ?Shame we don’t get the chocolate on the pillow, coffee in the room or any free films or programmes to watch. Overall great job. Less benefits to crown and anchor guests which is disappointing. The North star is a unique and fun feature as were the bumper cars but I do miss the ice shows.