Greek/Turkey Cruise

Sharon Tiernan-Murphy 02 March 2015
We had the pleasure of taking a Royal Caribbean Cruise on Navigator Of The Seas which is part of the Voyager Class of ship. What a fantastic experience. Our particular cruise departed from Rome Civitavecchia Port which is approx. 50 minutes of a drive from Rome City but longer from Rome Da Vinci Airport. We chose to stay 1 night in Rome pre cruise, but honestly we should have booked a minimum of 2 to fully appreciate and explore the city. But sure it’s a good excuse return to the chanting city of Rome!

We decided on the Greek/Turkey Cruise as these places are close to heart. We opted to go for a balcony stateroom as it was a special occasion. Being honest I would book the balcony cabin again as it is fantastic when you are coming in to port and also for those lazy days at sea when you can sit out and read a book sipping on a nice cold glass of wine.

Yes the cabins are not overly spacious but they we very well equipped with all you need and require. Ample wardrobe, storage space with a seating area and large comfortable beds. A completely acceptable bathroom with separate shower and washbasin. Over the years with new ships being launched, it is clear that the furnishings and décor are more modern and up to date. But we didn’t complain or find any fault with Navigator as this was our first cruise, so we didn’t have anything to compare it to.

There was a very good selection of bars and restaurants to choose from. We particularly took to the Champagne Bar just off Main Street for our pre-dinner drink each evening. They provide you with the options of everything from an Irish Bar to Vintage Wine Bar. The night club is open every night bar one, if you fancy taking to the floor.

Restaurants range from the formal main dining room, to the informal buffet at the Windjammer Café. You can choose to dine at the specialty restaurants also, which carry a very small supplement but well worth it. Johnny Rockets is also available at a small supplement and will fill you for the day. The Café Promenade is perfect for a cuppa or a coffee and snack. Every meal we had on board was delicious and offered such a variety of cuisine. You can avail of 24 hour room service if prefer some R ‘n’ R in your stateroom.

There is varied entertainment every night in the form of shows in the main theatre or live music in one of the many bars. On board there is an ice skating rink for your own use and also for professional shows. We had the famous rock climbing wall, pitch N putt, walking Track, basketball court and teenagers zone. Full Gym and Spa available plus 2 pools to choose from, the larger family area with pool side entertainment or the smaller more relaxed adults pool and solarium.

A complete casino if you are in the mood for a gamble or just a bit of fun. Main Street shopping hosts a number of shops from Duty Free, to Jewelry, to clothes and souvenirs Last but not least there is a small Chapel.

Our overall experience of cruising was fantastic and we will definitely board another cruise in the not too distant future. I felt that it had the perfect combination for a holiday. If you want to relax by the pool, in the spa or on your balcony, or feel more energetic by going to the Gym or walking/running the track, or taking one of the many tours to the sights at each port the option is yours. Whatever you do make sure cruising is on your to do list.

If you would like to ask me anything about my cruise experience, please don’t hesitate to contact me.