Day 2::: For an older ship Independence of the seas looks to be in good shape. The promenade outdoor deck is wide, freshly painted and lots of loungers. However one side of this deck is entirely devoted to smokers. So unusable to non smokers, same with the pool deck. It’s just wrong.
My first cabin had an infestation of Asian lady bugs on the couch. They pince your skin. While sitting on the couch I saw them and called housekeeping. They came and tried to tell me it was a lady bug. They moved me to a lesser cabin.. adjoining ocean view that has very loud air conditioning at night. I didn’t notice that one had pierced my ear lobe until it swelled. I took Benadryl and put the cream on. It’s still throbbing. Maintenance said it was likely the work they do at night in Studio B above me that caused the noise It is fine during the day. I am told to call if I hear the loud noise tonight. Of course they are wrong as when I turn the knob to heat there is no noise. I have asked for compensation.
I had booked and was confirmed for early dining. But upon boarding, I was given open dining at 6:45 pm.
After waiting in a very long line, I was able to switch it for my friends and I. Tip do this as soon as you board the ship.
The first dinner in the dining room was good but took long for service. The food was hot but hot drinks lukewarm. Tip ask that your table be served first among their tables for faster service.
The ship is full of primarily retirees as it is a 9 day cruise to New England and kis are back in school. As always trivia is packed as the use one of the smallest venues on the ship.
Hope this helps
Marcia
