Yes, we are at it again.
After only a few months, we could not help but escape this brutal New England winter for another cruise. Taking advantage of some accrued travel points, we were able to secure a 3 day Bahamas cruise onboard Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas for free, paying just port charges and taxes.
Considering it had been a while since we had traveled to the Bahamas, we thought there is no better time than the present to have a little fun in the sun.
Below is a quick recap of this short cruise. You can read our detailed day-by-day review here. Or, for those who would rather listen, you can hear DB give a review of this trip on a recent Cruise Radio podcast.
Enchantment of the Seas Summary
Embarkation
Getting on the ship was a breeze. We got to the new terminal at Port Canaveral right around 10am. We were through security, checked in, and ready to board in less than 10 minutes. Getting to the terminal early is always a good idea as we were able to board Enchantment of the Seas by 10:45am!
Inside the New Cruise Terminal at Port Canaveral
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: The Ship
Enchantment of the Seas is the largest of the Royal Caribbean’s Vision class, as it went through a major renovation in 2005, being cut in half and extend over 70 feet. For a three day cruise, Enchantment of the Seas was a great ship with much to offer.
Upon entering the ship in the Centrum on Deck 4, you are greeted with a large open atrium. This is the one of hubs of activity hosting entertainment during the day as well as evening events. The main attraction here is the R Bar, serving signature cocktails and great fun!
When Open the R Bar on Deck 4 was Always a Happening Venue
The public venues were mostly well maintained, although you could tell the ship has been in service for a while. Some furniture was worn, and the decor in some venues could use a bit of sprucing up. One of the more popular venues on other Royal Caribbean ships, Boleros, was actually not very busy during our cruise.
Boleros
Outside, there was plenty of space on the Pool Deck, Deck 9, and getting a lounge chair did not prove difficult during the three day cruise. We found the layout to be very conducive to relaxing and getting some much needed sun.
Pool Deck
The pool deck was also home to another one of our favorite spots, the Oasis Bar. We were not alone as this bar was always crowded. We did purchase a drink package, which seemed to be prevalent on this sailing. There were some long waits at the bars, but just a great excuse to strike up a conversation with those waiting around you.
Preparing for the Onboard Rush at the Oasis Bar
Of course, there were all the other Royal Caribbean staples including the casino, the Schooner Bar, and the Viking Crown Lounge, which served as the night club in the evenings. It was busy, loud, and the happening nighttime spot.
This Dance Floor Was Packed Each Night of the Cruise
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: Our Cabin
When redeeming our reward points for this cruise, it specified that it had to be an ocean view cabin. Due to our last minute booking, this meant we were stuck with a cabin on Deck 2. While at first we were disappointed, it actually turned out to be a perfect location-a few decks up to the Centrum and MDR and a quick elevator ride up to the 9th deck for the pool and outdoor hot spots.
Inside our Cabin
We normally book an inside cabin as we are not cruising to stay in our room, so this ocean view cabin was pretty standard in terms of layout and size. If you have never cruised before, these are some tight quarters, but you get used to it pretty quickly.
Our Room Before We Unpacked
Our stateroom attendant, Mark, was very attentive and had a great sense of humor. He always remarked how much I liked to drink…coffee!
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: Entertainment
Let’s be honest, the main reason people go on a cruise is to have a good time, and Enchantment of the Seas delivered with plenty of entertainment. If fact, there were so many different shows and activities that it was difficult to fit everything we wanted to do into 3 days. From the Royal Caribbean theater productions, to pool deck parties and the Belly Flop Contest, and even a midnight buffet, it was all here with only three short days to enjoy it all!
Cruise Director Mark Hosting a 70s Disco Party
If you are looking to test the waters, this ship and itinerary is a perfect way to try out a cruise and get the complete Royal Caribbean experience. Give it a try, and I bet you will be hooked!
Headliner Show Featuring the Magic of Puck
The evening shows included the Royal Caribbean singers and dancers, as well as a headliner Magician, Puck, a finalist on America’s Got Talent. There was also a late night comedy act, Al Ducharme, which provided some rather offbeat humor.
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: Dining
When we were not at a show or relaxing by the pool with a frozen cocktail in hand, we were probably eating.
While the dining options on Enchantment of the Seas are somewhat limited compared to newer ships, the quality and service lived up to the Royal Caribbean standards. We frequently visited the Park Cafe in the Solarium on Deck 9. This restaurant offers some fresh signature sandwiches, salads, and soups and is a nice alternative to the buffet for breakfast and lunch.
Sandwich and Panini from Park Cafe
The Windjammer, the buffet found on Deck 9, is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner. It does have a good selection of food, but we recommend you try some other venues too!
You should make time to eat in the My Fair Lady Dining Room, located on Decks 4 and 5. We opted for My Time Dining on this cruise, and made all of our reservations in advance. We never had any issues getting a table for two, and we were sat in the same section with the same excellent waitstaff each night.
Just one of my scrumptious meals at the Main Dining Room
Having sailed on Royal Caribbean many times, we were quite familiar with the menu, and I was ready to order all of my favorite starters and entrees. Yes, you can order as much as you like, and I do!
Cheesecake Anyone?
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: Ports of Call
This short 3 day Bahamas cruise is really about getting away for an extended weekend of fun, sun, and relaxation. That said, you do stop in two Bahama ports-the historic Nassau, Bahamas and Royal Caribbean’s private island Coco Cay, Bahamas. Both stops have a diversity of things to do and see depending upon how much you want to cram into your vacation.
In Nassau, we booked an island tour which visited a couple historic forts as well as the famous Queen’s Staircase. It also made some quick stops for photo-ops and allowed for a brief jaunt at Atlantis on Paradise Island. If you have never been to Nassau, this tour might be the best way to get a glimpse of the beautiful island. We will have a complete picture review of this excursion posted soon.
Fort Fincastle in Nassau, Bahamas
On the third day of the cruise, we relaxed at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Coco, Cay, Bahamas. It had been five years since we last visited this island, and it was much nicer than we recalled. We spent all day lounging near the beach.
Don’t You Wish You Were Here?
The beach at the farthest end of the island, Barefoot Beach, is a bit nicer and less rocky (and less crowded). There are plenty of things to do on this great island if you prefer a bit more adventure like jet skis, snorkeling, and even a nature walk.
Coco Locos!
Or like us, you could just catch some rays while sipping a few Coco Locos, the island’s signature frozen drink. This was the perfect way to spend our last day of the cruise!
Enchantment of the Seas Summary: Disembarkation
Just like getting on the ship, getting off was simple, but depressing. We carried our own bags and were off the ship in literally a few minutes. There was a bit of a hold up at customs as there seemed to be a shortage of agents. The line was quite long, but did keep moving.
Back at the Cruise Terminal, Boo!
It was okay, we were fine with staying in Florida a little bit longer!
Final Impressions
The Enchantment of the Seas over delivered when it came to a short cruise. First rate entertainment, excellent food and service, and plenty of Royal Caribbean staples to be had. The cruise director Mark and his staff kept the party going. The bars onboard Enchantment of the Seas were the busiest I have ever seen on a cruise ship-seriously. Many travelers, like us, purchased drink packages and they came ready to use them.
Great Food, Drinks, and Entertainment Onboard Enchantment of the Seas
Fellow travelers were definitely more of an eclectic mix than other cruises. Plenty of first time cruisers, and others just out to have a good time, including at least 10 bachelorette parties. Getting seats for shows was relatively easy, and public spaces (beside bars) never felt too packed, even the casino was not too crazy.
If we had the vacation time, we would certainly sample a four day cruise on this ship!
Want more? Then don’t forget to check out our detailed review of this Enchantment of the Seas cruise, complete with compasses, menus, and photo gallery.
Comments
Have you sailed on Enchantment of the Seas? Ever done a short, Bahamas cruise? Drop us an anchor below to let your fellow travelers know about your experiences cruising. We would love to hear about your voyages, so don’t be bashful!
35 comments
Elizabeth
I have done 3 cruises on enchartment of the seas love this ship even thought this is not a tremendous cruise ship like oasis or maybe allure it does offer you plenty to do while you on board either the 3 days or the 4 days I love this ship so much that I will be there on jan.2017 this will be one of my first one for 2017 I love cruising I have never cruise with any other cruise line than royal am a diamond member already and of cause soon I be in another rank
JenJacqs
Oh the cruise ship is beautiful! I wish I could go on a cruise in the future. I would love to put that on my bucket list. 🙂
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Jen for the comment. Enchantment was a very nice ship. It is a great cruise for a “newbie”. There are many beautiful ships out there, and this is one of them. Safe Travels.
Kiwi
I actually have a free cruise myself that I have to pay port fees and taxes. I cant wait to go with me and my best friend this summer! YAY!
Myrabev
Oh wow I am absolutely jealous, this all looks so fabulous and so my kind of place. I have never been cruising and only been dreaming. The set-up is really awesome.
Rosey
Everything looks just decadent. And you got pictures without a bazillion people in them, nice!!
Fi Ní Neachtáin
What a beautiful looking ship! I’m so jealous, I’d love to sail around the Caribbean someday, it’s so beautiful! 🙂
Micah David Bella
I haven’t been in a cruise. I wish I will have the opportunity to be able to embark on such adventure.
JamericanSpice (@Jamericanspice)
Wow! What an adventure!
The cabin looks big and comfortable.
I would love to take another cruise with our family sometime.
Shanéy Vijendranath
Wow, looks like a lovely cruise! I love the setup and the entertainment looks awesome. I wouldn’t mind going on a cruise like this.
Rebecca Swenor
This looks like an amazingly relaxing cruise indeed. I would so love to go on a cruise like this some day. Everything looks totally amazing. Thanks for sharing.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Rebecca. Yes, it was a very relaxing cruise. Just what we needed to escape the awful winter weather here in MA. Appreciate the comment.
Betsy @ BPhotoArt.com
We did a very similar 3 day cruise that included Nassau, the private island, and the Florida Keys. It was our first cruise, and probably our last one until we to the Alaska cruise. A little too structured for us!
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Betsy for the comment. We actually did an Alaskan cruise last year and it was amazing. We have a full review and tips on our site. Cruising in the Bahamas can be care-free or structured, just depends on the ship you choose and your traveling preferences. Thanks for reading.
Angelic Sinova
What a fun cruise! I’ve never been on a cruise but I really want to go on a Disney cruise next year. i love the decor of the rooms and that food looks super yummy (that’s always important!) <3
Nicole Herose Escat
I’ve never been there, or in cruise this is looks beautiful and peaceful, I wish I could go there love it.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Nicole for reading. The Bahamas is great place to visit, and even better when on a cruise. It was definitely a nice R&R sort of trip.
Stephanie
I’ve never been on a cruise but I’d really like to someday. We’re considering a Disney Cruise at this point because my daughter is 4, but any will do!
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Stephanie for the comment. We have not done a Disney cruise, yet, but we here they are great. They also do short cruises like this, so you can visit the Bahamas. If you ever need help planning your trip, feel free to reach out to us!
Nancy
Oh these are the types of cruises I would LOVE to join in on. I’m hoping to go on one before my husband and I have a baby 🙂 🙂
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Nancy for the comment. Short cruises are super easy to book and to try out as they are constantly happening and you only need a few days off from work to enjoy them! They make great family vacations too, once you have some little ones. 🙂
Vera Sweeney
I would love to cruise like this!! I love the idea that everything is all together and while you sleep you are actually drifting off to a new destination!
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Vera for reading. Yes, one of the best things about cruising is the ability to see a variety of places all in one trip. Sure beats flying to different destinations! Appreciate the comment.
Liz Mays
The cruise ship is so pretty and it sounds like a blast. The stops in Nassau and Coco Cay would be so nice too.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Liz for reading. The ship was nicely appointed, especially for such a short cruise. Both islands were nice and very picturesque. We have complete photo galleries to accompany the review for the ship and ports of call. Appreciate the comment!
HilLesha
I went on a cruise for the first time to the Bahamas last spring and enjoyed it! I wouldn’t mind doing it again sometime in the future.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks HilLesha for the comment. The Bahamas is a great place to do a first cruise. Now we have to get you to the Caribbean! LOL. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoyed the review.
Penny Struebig
Cruises can be a really fun time. We haven’t been on one in years. Great pictures.
DB
Thanks Penny. Glad you enjoyed the review. Looks like we need to get you back on another cruise soon! Appreciate the comment.
Robyn Clifford
This was brilliant! I’ve never been on a cruise before, but the more I hear about them, the more I want to go! Love the look of the food and cocktails!
Robyn
http://www.thetechgypsy.com
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Robyn for the comment. Cruises are a great experience. The food, and drinks, are well worth it. There are plenty of sustainable cruise options out there and the industry has been increasing the variety of places cruise ships visit, so I am sure you can find one that suits your still of traveling. Safe travels!
Amy @ Will Run For Ice Cream
I’ve never been on a cruise, but I would love to take one some day. There are so many to choose from and this looks like a great one to try 🙂 The pictures are stunning.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks Amy for reading. We need to get you on a cruise soon! This was a very nice short escape, but as you mention, cruise ships go to many unique destinations all over the world, that you can definitely find a cruise that is right for you! Appreciate the comment!
Bethaney - Flashpacker Family
Great post. We did our first cruise in December, on board Adventure of the Seas, and loved it! Looking for another one to do in October.
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Appreciate the comment Bethaney. Enchantment of the Seas offers plenty of options and was a nice escape for a long weekend. We are actually sailing on Adventure of the Seas this August. Would love to hear what you thought of the ship. Thanks for reading.