Royal Caribbean cruise experience highlights crowding and long lines

A Business Insider reporter shared their experience during a first-time seven-day Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. The voyage departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, visiting Roatan, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas.

The traveler described the experience as being vastly different from promotional advertisements. Key frustrations included significant crowding and long lines for security, transportation, buffet services, and onboard activities. The reporter noted that the sheer scale of the ship made it easy to get lost and that common areas, such as the pool decks, often felt like crowded shopping malls.

Despite the logistical challenges and the difficulty of finding relaxation due to noise and crowds, the reporter noted the impressive size of the vessel, comparing it to a skyscraper on its side. The trip included an ocean-view stateroom, which was secured at a discounted rate of $2,000.