- Setting Sail: Our Cruise Beginnings
- Exploring the Ship: Freedom of the Seas
- Our Room: Cozy but Comfortable
- First Two Days: Settling In
- Evenings on the Ship: Dining and Entertainment
- First Port: St. Maarten
- Second Port: St. Lucia
- Final Port: St. Kitts
After 24 years of marriage, Cody and I decided it was time for a little adventure—just the two of us. With two kids in university (hello, empty nest vibes), we figured a celebration was in order. So, we stepped out of our comfort zone and onto the Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas for our very first cruise.
The itinerary? Three bucket-list islands—St. Maarten, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts. Each destination was more beautiful than the last, with postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant cultures, and those dreamlike Caribbean views.
This post is for anyone curious about cruising, especially first-timers. We’ll share what we loved, what we learned, and some tips to make your own trip smooth sailing. Oh, and expect lots of photos—it’s hard to put these views into words!
Setting Sail: Our Cruise Beginnings
We booked our cruise online through the Royal Caribbean website—a pretty straightforward process. I opted for a balcony room because I was worried about getting seasick and figured fresh air might help. (Spoiler: I didn’t end up getting sick, but that balcony? Total game-changer.) Mornings with coffee and a book, evenings with a glass of wine, and dockside people-watching were highlights. Sure, it costs more, but in my opinion, it’s absolutely worth it.
After booking, I didn’t hear much from Royal Caribbean right away, which was a little nerve-wracking. I’m a planner, and the radio silence wasn’t exactly reassuring. Thankfully, about two or three weeks before cruise time, the emails started rolling in. This is when I learned that Royal Caribbean’s base price covers the basics, but extras—from specialty dining to WiFi—are an additional cost. Honestly, I appreciated the à la carte approach. We’re not big drinkers or foodies, so paying $80 a day per person for a drink package didn’t make sense for us. We’d rather put our money toward excursions and adventures.
Using the Royal Caribbean website, we booked a few extras, including “The Key.” Now, let me say upfront: I’m still undecided on whether “The Key” was worth it. It offers perks like priority boarding, disembarkation, and reserved seating at shows, plus WiFi and discounts on specialty dining. There’s also a special lunch on embarkation day (which we missed because no one mentioned it until it was too late) and a departure day breakfast (this part was excellent). If you love convenience and are a WiFi-dependent human like me, it might be worth the splurge.
Another pre-cruise task was online check-in, which was super easy. They sent us luggage tags to print (if you’re checking bags, don’t skip this—they attach to your luggage and deliver it straight to your room). Since we only brought carry-ons, this didn’t apply to us, but it’s a handy service if you’re packing more.
We chose to sail from Fort Lauderdale instead of the closer Galveston port because, well, we’ve lived in Texas long enough to have done the Mexico circuit. St. Maarten, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts sounded far more exciting! Being a United loyalist, we booked flights to FLL and used my favorite travel app, Rome2Rio, to figure out the best way to get from the airport to the port. The verdict? A taxi was the quickest and easiest.
Let’s talk about that taxi. Was it a bit sketchy? Yep. Was the car…let’s call it “well-loved”? Absolutely. But our driver knew the port like the back of his hand, which made up for the rough ride. (Pro tip: All official taxis in Florida are required to accept credit cards. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.)
Once we arrived, “The Key” helped us breeze through boarding. Within minutes, we were on the ship, wandering the decks, and soaking in our first sunset at sea. Meanwhile, the seasoned cruisers were already in their swimsuits, splashing in the pools. If you’re planning your own cruise, I recommend keeping a swimsuit handy in your carry-on for that first afternoon onboard—you’ll thank me later.
Exploring the Ship: Freedom of the Seas
The Freedom of the Seas is a floating city with 12 floors of fun, relaxation, and a little something for everyone. Here’s a quick deck-by-deck rundown, with a few of my own observations thrown in:
Decks 6–10: The “Neighborhood”
If you’re cruising, chances are good your room is here. We spent our downtime on Deck 7 in our balcony room, which was perfect for coffee chats, reading, and people-watching while docked. Pro tip: Splurging on the balcony room is worth it, even if you’re not worried about seasickness.
Deck 1: The Essentials
Deck 1 is the “functional” deck—think debarking for excursions and access to the ship’s medical facilities. Hopefully, you’ll only need this deck for the former.
Deck 5: The Social Hub
This deck quickly became our favorite. Decked out in holiday spirit (we cruised in December), it had a stunning Christmas tree that became a popular spot for family portraits. There were professional photographers stationed here frequently, capturing memories in front of the tree, the staircase, and more. We didn’t jump on the photo train (camera shy?), but there was rarely a line. My guess? You can book sessions on the Royal Caribbean website.
Shops line Deck 5, offering everything from steeply discounted jewelry to classic beach destination staples—think hats, flowy outfits, tie-dye, magnets, and toys. There’s also a Starbucks-style coffee shop, where we took full advantage of our pre-purchased coffee card (15 drinks for the 8-day cruise). While we mostly stuck to mochas, next time, we might skip the card. The shop has free coffee and tea in the back, and honestly, we’re pretty basic when it comes to caffeine.
This deck also has a few bars and one of the main dining entries. It’s a lively spot that captures the energy of the ship.
Deck 4: Games, Trivia, and Maybe Pool?
Deck 4 is the home of the casino (not our thing, but always packed) and a sports bar where Cody and I spent a good chunk of time. Picture us watching games and chatting with fellow passengers—definitely our vibe. We even attempted a game of pool here, but let’s just say the ship’s movement made us better at missing than sinking shots. Lesson learned!
Trivia fans, take note: Schooner Bar on Deck 4 is where we flexed our (sometimes questionable) knowledge during trivia sessions. Spoiler: We had a blast, even when we didn’t win.
The Upper Decks (11–13): Adventure Awaits
The top decks are where the action happens. Deck 11 houses the Windjammer buffet (more on food later) and pools galore, including adult-only areas and hot tubs.
Deck 12 ramps up the excitement with slides, a FlowRider surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, and a basketball court. There’s something uniquely entertaining about watching people wipe out on the FlowRider (don’t worry—it’s all in good fun).
There’s also an ice skating rink, a “library” (quotes intentional—it’s tiny), and theaters for shows and movies. These decks offer endless opportunities to stay busy—or do absolutely nothing if that’s more your speed.
Our Room: Cozy but Comfortable
Cruise ship rooms are famously small, but ours felt a little more spacious than I expected—though, let’s be honest, it’s still cozy. The layout made smart use of the space, which included:
- A closet with about 12 hangers (bring extras if you’re an over-packer like me).
- A small bathroom with amazing water pressure and fantastically hot water (seriously, it was a highlight).
- A couch, a sitting area with a mirror, and a large bed.
The bed was a little firm for my taste, but it got the job done.
The true standout, though, was our room attendant. Not only was he always cheerful and kept the space spotless, but he had a real talent for towel origami! Each time we returned to the room, a new creation awaited us—monkeys, hippos, you name it. By the end of the trip, our room felt like a miniature zoo. We couldn’t bear to dismantle his masterpieces, so they stayed with us as whimsical little roommates. His artistry and kindness took me right back home to Indonesia, making the experience even more special.
Pro Tip: Bring some extra cash for tips. I’d heard $3 per day was standard, but I gave more because our attendant truly went above and beyond.
First Two Days: Settling In
Here’s something I didn’t anticipate: Florida in December + open water = way too cold for this tropical girl! Goosebumps were my constant companion. Still, we bundled up and braved the outdoors because, well, we’re on a cruise! While the pool areas filled up quickly (career cruisers were staking out their spots before I’d even finished my morning coffee), there were plenty of chaise lounges scattered all around the ship. Many overlooked the ocean, making them the perfect retreat. I spent hours lazing on a chair, reading my book, and soaking up the commotion and music from nearby activities. Totally my kind of vacation. Side note, seriously consider these towel bands as the wind is EXTREME!
Most of our meals those first days (and every day, really) were at The Windjammer, the ship’s all-you-can-eat buffet. It’s included in the price, which also gets you access to Sorrento’s Pizza and Main Dining if you want to mix things up. We stuck to the Windjammer for breakfast and lunch—it’s a buffet, and I love being able to sample a little of everything.
The selection was impressively broad, with plenty of options no matter your dietary needs, including a gluten-free section at lunch (shoutout to my fellow GF friends!). The food was solid—a mix of hits and “really good” moments. Nothing life-changing, but also nothing disappointing. By day eight, the offerings did feel a little repetitive, but the service? Absolutely not.
The staff at The Windjammer were unbelievably attentive and endlessly positive. They seemed to genuinely love making guests feel welcome, and their energy was contagious.
Evenings on the Ship: Dining and Entertainment
In the evenings, we had a set dinner reservation at 7:45 pm in the Main Dining Room, which you select when booking your cruise. Each table is assigned seating, and it’s family or group-style. We were paired with two other couples—a married duo and a mother-son pair—who dined with us every night. I personally loved this setup; it added a sense of community. By the end of the cruise, running into them on the ship felt like bumping into family. A quick “see you at dinner!” was such a warm and familiar moment amidst the vacation vibe.
The Main Dining Room’s service was, once again, unbeatable. Our waitstaff, Eran and Edmund, were phenomenal and added so much to our experience. Since they were assigned to our table for the duration of the cruise, we got to know each other well, and they quickly learned our preferences. Dinner each night was a three-course affair with an appetizer, main course, and dessert. There were about six options for each course, some consistent staples and others rotating based on themed nights (Mexican, Italian, American, etc.).
I really enjoyed the food overall. The steaks? Fantastic. The salmon? Almost always overcooked, but the flavors were nice. One standout moment for me: the gluten-free accommodations. On the first night, Eran and Edmund noted my dietary needs, and at the end of each meal, they took my order for the following day to ensure it was safe for me. I didn’t have a single issue during the cruise—a huge relief and a wonderful example of their care and attention to detail.
After dinner, the ship came alive with entertainment options. One evening, we saw a Broadway-style Grimm Fairytale show that was clever, imaginative, and so much fun. We also caught a comedian, though I’d rate him as “mildly amusing” rather than laugh-out-loud funny. Beyond the formal shows, there were musicians scattered across the ship, themed dance nights on the decks, outdoor movies under the stars, and more. Whether you wanted to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet evening, there was always something to suit your mood.
First Port: St. Maarten
Our first port stop was St. Maarten, and I quickly fell in love with its charm. We had chosen an afternoon excursion, “Afternoon at Orient Beach,” which left us with the morning free to explore on our own. For anyone unfamiliar with how these ports work (like I was), you don’t have to leave the ship immediately, and you can come and go as long as you have your identification.
After a light rain shower, we wandered off the ship, which docks on the Dutch side of the island. From the port, it’s about a 15-minute walk to a little town area. The walk is easy, with sidewalks the whole way, and the destination is well worth it. The town is lined with cute shops and restaurants along the beach, perfect for grabbing souvenirs or snapping Instagram-worthy photos. Warning: the island is a lot freer with their naming practices than the USA, and yes I took pictures of them! Most of the shops had the usual beach tourist vibe, and the restaurants overlooking the water were beautiful (though a bit pricey, as waterfront spots tend to be).
We decided to venture farther away from the water to find something quieter, and it paid off. We stumbled upon an Indian restaurant, Shiv Shakti, with fantastic food and reasonable prices—a great find for anyone looking for something different! After lunch, we made our way back to the ship just in time to meet our ride to Orient Beach.
The drive was a treat in itself. Our guide shared fascinating tidbits about the island as we crossed over to the French side. When we arrived at Orient Beach, I immediately understood why it’s called the “Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean.” Located in the northeastern part of the island, this white sand beach with stunning turquoise water is iconic. It’s one of the largest and busiest beaches on St. Maarten, but thanks to our tour, we had a reserved section with chairs waiting for us—a lifesaver since the rest of the beach was packed. For just three dollars, we rented an umbrella, which made our setup perfect.
The beach’s waves were my favorite part. Having lived in Curaçao for two years, I’m used to calm, still waters, so playing in the waves felt like a fun return to childhood. The Atlantic Ocean’s trade winds make Orient Beach a hotspot for board sports, and the energy was contagious. To top it all off, our tour included unlimited rum punch—an excellent touch for a tropical day.
St. Maarten was everything I hoped for: charming towns, delicious food, and a beach day that struck the perfect balance between relaxation and fun. I’d go back in a heartbeat!
Second Port: St. Lucia
The next day, we docked at St. Lucia, an island that had always been on my “must-visit” list. While I was excited to finally see it, I have to admit that a day was enough for me. It’s undeniably gorgeous—lush greenery, beautiful blue water, and picturesque scenery check all the boxes for a tropical paradise. However, having lived on a pretty island for two years, I was hoping for a tour with more historical or cultural depth. That said, if your goal is pure rest and relaxation, St. Lucia is perfect for that.
For our excursion, we chose the Jeep Safari and Beach Adventure. Our tour guide was an absolute gem—hilarious, charismatic, and apparently friends with everyone on the island. As we drove through the streets, she waved at her neighbor, her cousin, her aunt, and probably her dog-sitter. Her charm made the tour delightful! The driver, however, was new, and let’s just say it showed. There were a few white-knuckle moments, but hey, we survived and now have a story to tell.
The beach was where things got interesting. First, chairs and umbrellas weren’t included, so we had to fork out $10 per chair (cue wide-eyed emoji). To save a little, we opted to share one chair and parked ourselves under a tree for shade. The beach was packed—think sardines on a very small stretch of sand. It was a far cry from the spacious, breezy beaches of St. Maarten. Even the bathroom had a fee: $1 per use.
Despite the crowded setup, the beach did have its charm. The water was calm, great for swimming, and there was definitely a lively, fun vibe. The highlight? A floating bar bobbing just off the shore, perfect for anyone looking to soak up the party atmosphere.
St. Lucia was beautiful, and while it didn’t leave a lasting impression for its history or uniqueness, it’s definitely worth a visit for a day of laid-back tropical vibes.
Final Port: St. Kitts
Our last stop was St. Kitts, and wow—I never knew I needed this island on my travel radar, but now I can’t wait to return. This was, hands down, my favorite port of the entire trip. We chose the “Essential St. Kitts” tour, and I can’t recommend it enough. If you’re planning a visit, do yourself a favor and book this one!
Our guide was fantastic. He drove us around the island in a comfortable bus, sharing endless stories and facts about the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty. To make it even more interactive, he’d stop to pick and pass around local treasures, from almonds and apple-like fruits to—you guessed it—marijuana leaves. His engaging and hands-on approach kept everyone on the tour hooked.
First Stop: Romney Manor & Wingfield Estate
This stop was a highlight. Set on 8 acres of lush, historic grounds, Romney Manor has a fascinating backstory that dates to the 1600s, starting with evidence of Amerindian settlements. Over time, it became the property of Sam Jeffreson II, the great-great-great-grandfather of U.S. President Thomas Jefferson. Later, it gained fame for its connection to Lord Romney, who, in 1834, declared the enslaved people on the estate free men—making it the first estate in St. Kitts to do so.
Today, Romney Manor is known for its batik enterprise. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous, with vibrant gardens and the show-stopping Saman tree—a 400-year-old giant with a 24-foot circumference that spans half an acre. Walking under its canopy felt magical. We also got to see the batik-making process up close and shop for some beautifully crafted items to take home.
Second Stop: Brimstone Hill Fortress
Next, we visited Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historical fortifications in the Americas. The fortress is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity of British engineers and the endurance of enslaved Africans who built it.
The views were breathtaking, and the history was fascinating. If you’re a history buff or just love stunning vistas, this is a must-see. My only regret? We didn’t have enough time to explore every nook and cranny of this incredible site.
Third Stop: The Lookout Point
Our final stop was a scenic lookout where you can see the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. It was a perfect photo op and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the island one last time.
St. Kitts left a lasting impression on me with its history, charm, and stunning landscapes. It’s a place that combines rich culture with natural beauty, and I’m already counting the days until we can come back.
Exploring the Port
After our tour, we spent some time wandering around the St. Kitts port, which was easily the liveliest and most bustling of the trip. The area is packed with shops offering everything from souvenirs to locally made goods, and right in the center is a bar with reasonably priced drinks—perfect for a quick pit stop.
Of course, I couldn’t resist indulging in a little exploration of the shops. In one row, a sign caught my eye: “Chocolate (Special Chocolate).” If you know me, you know exactly what happened next. We went in, and it was FAN-TAS-TIC! I enjoyed a delightful little chocolate treat, and if I’d been hungrier, I could have easily sampled much more. It’s a must-visit for chocolate lovers!
Overall, this cruise was an unforgettable experience filled with stunning scenery, vibrant cultures, and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. Each island had its own unique charm—from the waves at Orient Beach to the lush greenery of St. Lucia and the fascinating history of St. Kitts. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, I’d highly recommend this itinerary. I can’t wait to set sail again and see what new discoveries await!
Recalculating ... 