Explorer of the Seas Review
Overrated cruise line with a ship showing its age
Rating by category
Additional details
We chose this cruise because it was cheaper than Disney and had basically the same itinerary. I had never been on Royal Caribbean before but I had been told that they were a little below Disney but above Princess, Norwegian and Costa.
Embarkation process-Very smooth and fast. Best ever.
Cabin- Was quiet and traditional with normal restroom set up(no thanks Norwegian Epic). However the shower was backed up (gross) and the door lock stopped working twice a week apart. Also third bed is a bunk bed not a sofa bed so of course I had to hit my head a few times.
Cabin Review
Interior
The cabin was quiet and had a separate all in one toilet, shower and shower which was nice. However the upkeep on the bathroom was poor and the third bed is a bunkbed not a sleeper sofa. First of all the shower drain was backed up. It was gross to have shower water go above your feet. I called maintenance and they did take care of the problem fast and there were no other issues during the cruise. Next, the door lock stopped working twice. I put my key card in and the door wouldn't open. Same problem both times. First I was told that the "battery" in the lock was dead. Ok, that is fine but to have in happen twice in one week is a little fishy. I had to wait in the hallway for about 15-20 minutes each time. These things have never happened to me before and this is my 8th cruise.
On a smaller note, I didn't like the 3rd bed being a bunk bed above my bed.I hit my head on the bunk bed more than a few times. I would prefer the third bed being the a pull out sofa or convertible bed like I have experienced previously.
Port Reviews
Oslo
Took the hop on hop off bus. Getting to the Viking Museum take about 90 minutes but coming back is about half the time. It is ok. The sculpture museum is interesting. Did not want to pay $2 to pee though
Skagen
Town is easily walkable. Went to multiple light houses and made it as far as Grenen, before the sand buses. Did not make it all they way to the farthers point however. The museum in town is just ok as it is art musuem and not a history musuem which I wanted. Good hotdogs from carts!
Southampton
Got here late at night and left early in the morning.