Royal Caribbean Cruise Line - Allure of the Seas

By Tia Meno

Cure your winter woes with a short tropical cruise! Royal Caribbean’s 4-night Western Caribbean cruise is just enough time to get away, feel refreshed, and ready to tackle the rest of the winter!

I was giving the amazing opportunity to check out the new Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s terminal in Galveston, TX and go on the inaugural Allure of the Seas sailing from there.

The Allure of the Seas docked at the Royal Caribbean terminal

The Allure is an award-winning ship, one of biggest ships in the world, and the BIGGEST ship to depart from Texas – where everything is bigger! The Allure has won best individual cruise ship, best large cruise ship and best ship for entertainment. It’s a great ship for families, couples, or groups. The brand new, state of the art, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line terminal in Galveston is fast, convenient, and very nice! Very fast check in process – even with so many people arriving at the same time.

The arrival process is easy! Drop your bags off with the porters before going in. They will make sure your bag is tagged and they will deliver it to your stateroom. Be sure to keep a carry on bag with a change of clothes, a swimsuit, and any personal items you may need before you get to your stateroom.

Once you’ve dropped off your bag, head into the building. Go up the escalators (or elevator) where a Royal Caribbean representative will meet you to check your travel documents. You’ll then go through the metal detectors and that’s it! You’re ready to board!

Once I got on the ship, it was a little surreal! Defiantly didn’t feel like I was on a ship! We boarded on the 5th deck on the Promenade. It really felt like I was in a small town where everyone was so happy to see me!

Central Park - restaurants and a few stores

The Boardwalk - hot dogs, burgers, ice cream!

Cupcake display at the reception. The flower arrangements on either side were made of chocolate!

Your SeaPass card will be located on your room door. Your baggage that you dropped off may not be there yet – but don’t panic! It’ll be delivered by dinner. If you need anything, a stateroom attendant is assigned to your room. I was traveling with my 15 year old nephew and our stateroom had a queen bed that could be separated into two twin beds. Find your attendant and have them adjust it for you. If you don’t see an attendant in the hallway, call guest services and they will contact your attendant.

Before you know it, it’s time to head up to the 15th deck to join the farewell party! Grab a glass of sparkling wine, and wave goodbye to the stresses of normal life – the next few days are going to be EPIC!

Day 2 was cruising – an at sea day. There are tons of fun activities (check your daily schedule on the app). There was everything from a belly flop competition, mini golf, and pickle ball to a lady’s spa party and a Texas Hold ‘em tournament in the casino. You can also just relax by a pool, or in the (adult only) solarium.

There are several shows you can go to, outdoor movies, and of course – on board tax and duty free shopping!

Balcony stateroom. Watching the many ships in the Gulf.

Day 3 we arrived in Cozumel at 8am!

If you decide to get off the ship and explore the port, I suggest going as early as you can. There were 4 other cruise ships docked and that equals a lot of people! My nephew and I had booked a shore excursion. These are available for purchase on the cruise line’s website prior to the cruise, or on the app once on board.

We did the Best of Cozumel Market Exploration and Spice Market excursion. Good excursion for those who want to shop! The tour group went to the city center and visited several shops then the Spice Market where we sampled local teas and honey. The last stop was at the central city park. Had lunch at Frida’s, then back to the ship!

If you decide to stay on the ship while it is docked, there are lots activities planned – and there will be less people on board!

Day 4 cruising – an at sea day.

Lots of fun to be had at sea! Even when it rains! We woke up with humid, 80 something degree weather. By 11am, the temperature had dropped to the 60’s and it was raining. The ship has a card room that has computers, decks of cards (of course), and board games. Spent the afternoon there with lots of others who were trying to escape the rain!

That evening we got to try out one of the specialty restaurants. Chops Grill, located in Central Park on deck 6. This place was over the top fancy, so wear something nice if you go here! The steaks were cooked to perfection!

Day 5 we arrived back in the Galveston port at 6am. The restaurants and coffee shops stay open so that you’re able to get coffee and breakfast before you disembark.