We just returned from our 4-night Wonder cruise of 10/24. This was our first cruise, and I was the most reluctant member of the family going in. Some observations, for what they are worth:
1. The service is FANTASTIC ! We over-tipped nearly everyone and they deserved it. Everyone was sunny and friendly and would help you out any way they could. An unbelievable staff, even the attendants in the parking lot were great.
2. The food is very good to excellent, especially the dinners. Considering that they are serving 3500+ per night, the presentation was first rate and some dishes were outstanding.
3. Some kids programs were very good, some not so. Our 15yo DD had no interest in the teen programs, and the programs for 5-7 year olds were more tailored for younger kids. 7yo son lost interest quickly and didn't want to go back. 11yo DD LOVED it and spent every day there. She met many new friends from all over the world.
4. The first night was very rough, until we got farther out to sea. Some staff told us they hadn't been in seas that rough before. To use a fellow passengers term, it was "barf-o-rama". Once through that though, seas were fairly calm and the ride was good.
5. Palo was great, but a rough ride. I'm not sure why this was, but the decorations on our table were shaking the ride was so rough, it was uncomfortable. I'd be curious if this was normal, or just our trip.
6. Entertainment and on-board activities are top-notch. They really think of everything, and the shows were very enjoyable. We did so many things in four days it seemed more like a week. And with 3000+ on board, it never seemed over-crowded.
7. Nassau was good, but Castaway Cay was great fun. Again, everything was done first class.
8. On-board prices were very reasonable. From drinks to gift shop things, we didn't spend nearly as much on board as we thought we would.
Overall, a memorable trip that was worth every penny. As new cruisers it took a full day to get into the "rythym" of everything, after that, we had a ball. I can see why people go back time and again and I think it's likely we will too. We're already talking about how much we'd enjoy a 7 day trip as "experienced" cruisers.
Oh, and a big THANKS to everyone on this board for all of the tips and helpful info.
Balloo
1. The service is FANTASTIC ! We over-tipped nearly everyone and they deserved it. Everyone was sunny and friendly and would help you out any way they could. An unbelievable staff, even the attendants in the parking lot were great.
2. The food is very good to excellent, especially the dinners. Considering that they are serving 3500+ per night, the presentation was first rate and some dishes were outstanding.
3. Some kids programs were very good, some not so. Our 15yo DD had no interest in the teen programs, and the programs for 5-7 year olds were more tailored for younger kids. 7yo son lost interest quickly and didn't want to go back. 11yo DD LOVED it and spent every day there. She met many new friends from all over the world.
4. The first night was very rough, until we got farther out to sea. Some staff told us they hadn't been in seas that rough before. To use a fellow passengers term, it was "barf-o-rama". Once through that though, seas were fairly calm and the ride was good.
5. Palo was great, but a rough ride. I'm not sure why this was, but the decorations on our table were shaking the ride was so rough, it was uncomfortable. I'd be curious if this was normal, or just our trip.
6. Entertainment and on-board activities are top-notch. They really think of everything, and the shows were very enjoyable. We did so many things in four days it seemed more like a week. And with 3000+ on board, it never seemed over-crowded.
7. Nassau was good, but Castaway Cay was great fun. Again, everything was done first class.
8. On-board prices were very reasonable. From drinks to gift shop things, we didn't spend nearly as much on board as we thought we would.
Overall, a memorable trip that was worth every penny. As new cruisers it took a full day to get into the "rythym" of everything, after that, we had a ball. I can see why people go back time and again and I think it's likely we will too. We're already talking about how much we'd enjoy a 7 day trip as "experienced" cruisers.
Oh, and a big THANKS to everyone on this board for all of the tips and helpful info.
Balloo
