Shakedown Cruise - Employees and Invited Guests

• This was a unique experience for quick-to-respond frequent cruisers.
• When the invitations arrived, the internet was abuzz with speculation from non-believers.
• Fortunately, we responded quickly and waited patiently for confirmation.
• With a capacity of about 7500, the ship sailed with (only) about 5000.

Entertainment

There was too much to see on this short cruise.  The following were highlights:

• Back to the Future, the Musical, Royal Theatre
• Millennial Mania on the Promenade
• ”SOL” Ice Show, Deck 6

Dining

In short, the food was great.

• The Main Dining Room offered superb options, served promptly.
  • Lobster was on the menu night 2
  • Waiters were excellent and provided napkin figures (i.e., like towel animals)
• Pearl Cafe - Deck 6, 24 hours
  • Take the stairs from the Promenade
  • The desserts are amazing
• Windjammer Marketplace
  • Lobster was on the lunch menu, after boarding
  • Not too crowded, compared to other ships we’ve experienced (either due to operating under capacity or due to the many choices available)
• Multiple other choices
  • AquaDome Market - unique to the Icon Class
  • El Loco Fresh - as seen on many ships
  • Surfside Eatery - geared toward children and families
  • Several specialty restaurants at extra cost