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I took Navigator of the Seas on a western Mediterranean cruise. We loved the shore excursions as much as any of the fun activities on the ship. Highlights included a street artist performing a flamenco dance followed by an afternoon treat of oysters from a street vendor at Plaza de la Catedral and a visit to Catedral Nueva in Cadiz, Spain. A bistro lunch on a balcony patio with hours of shopping and sightseeing — with blue skies and Moorish architecture — in Malaga, Spain. Afternoons kicking around in Barcelona and Valencia, Spain. And a great gelato in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City.
Sharing a ship with 3,000 other people, you might think that you'll have to endure long lines at every meal. But that's not the case. With a main dining room, “My Time” dining, several restaurants to choose from, a cafeteria-style dining center and bistro café open 24 hours a day, there is always someplace and something to eat. Choices include:
Looking to burn off some calories at the end of the day? You can hit the disco, which spins music until the last dancer leaves the floor. If you want to be entertained, then you can take in an ice skating show, watch or take part in a nightly karaoke contest, go to the nightly headliner show or kick back in the Schooner Bar and sing along with the Piano Man.
Venues include:
While there is a Family Zone, video arcade and daycare on board, this cruise was not geared toward children. The guests ranged in age from 6 months to mid-80s, with the majority being between 55 and 65 years of age. Available family activities included:
With such a diverse group on board, it’s hard to see how the crew is able to meet the needs of so many of their guests, but they do. By the end of our 14-day Mediterranean cruise, it was surprising how familiar the crew members became with our habits and preferences. They pride themselves on knowing the likes and dislikes of their “regulars.” They also won’t hesitate to help you find the perfect place to celebrate that special event.
Were there some missteps? Absolutely. There was a distinct bathroom odor in the hallway outside of our cabin for the final three days. The headlining entertainment each night was geared more toward the British guests. I recall hearing many of the North American guests grumble about not “getting” the humor. All of that, aside, the cruise delivered as advertised, and I feel confident just about everyone left happy.
Monica Jackson sailed on Navigator of the Seas as a paying guest. See Cruiseable's Ethics & Disclosure policy.
Updated from an earlier review.
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