Big service on a small ship: Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas review
As I stepped aboard Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas for my very first cruise experience, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Would this older, smaller ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet deliver the vacation experience I was hoping for? Spoiler alert: it absolutely did, and in ways I never anticipated!
On this page:
- A small ship with a big heart
- Service that feels like luxury
- Enchantment of the Seas cabins: Cozy, clean, and functional
- Enchantment of the Seas dining: Fewer options, solid quality
- Entertainment & activities: Small ship, big fun
- Enchantment of the Seas destinations and shore excursions
- Hidden perks: The Royal Caribbean app
- Cruisebound tips for Enchantment of the Sea cruisers
Related: The best small cruise ships
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A small ship with a big heart
Despite being one of Royal Caribbean's older and more modest vessels (83,000 tons with a max capacity of 2,700 passengers), Enchantment of the Seas delivers an experience that feels anything but "budget." The ship's smaller size turned out to be one of its greatest strengths, creating an intimate atmosphere where I regularly bumped into the same friendly faces throughout my sailing.
By day two, I'd made friends with other passengers at the pool bar, and crew members not only recognized me but remembered my drink preferences! This personal touch is something I suspect might get lost on Royal's massive mega-ships. In fact, when comparing Enchantment of the Seas vs. Oasis of the Seas, this intimate atmosphere is a major differentiator. The Enchantment's layout is remarkably efficient and easy to navigate, with public spaces clearly separated from most cabin areas. For first-time cruisers or anyone who values connection over flashy amenities, Enchantment offers something special that can't be measured in square footage or the number of onboard attractions.
While the ship doesn't have the high-adrenaline features of newer Royal vessels (no water slides, zip lines, or surf simulators), it compensates with a fun, friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome. The ship was lengthened in 2005 and last refurbished in 2017, so while you'll see some signs of age, everything is well-maintained and comfortable.
Related: Curious about Royal Caribbean’s newest ship? Learn about the Star of the Seas.
Service that feels like luxury
Reading through Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas reviews online, I noticed many mentioned the exceptional service, but experiencing it firsthand was something else entirely. If there's one aspect of the cruise that completely blew me away, it was the service. As a first-time cruiser, I had no idea what to expect, but Royal Caribbean doesn't just talk about great service - they absolutely nail it.
Despite having thousands of guests onboard, the crew somehow made me feel like a VIP from start to finish, creating a ‘boutique’ cruise atmosphere. Their friendly, top-of-the-line service made everyone feel welcome, from single cruisers to families, and helped fellow passengers connect. I could already tell that my RCCL Enchantment of the Seas review is going to be a positive one.
In the My Fair Lady Dining Room, even without reservations, the staff made sure my friend and I were seated with the same waiter each night. When we were once assigned to a different section, our original waiter actually asked to take care of us instead! By the end of the cruise, they knew us by name and remembered our drink preferences. The assistant waiter would have my drink waiting before I even sat down, and our head waiter stopped by each night to check on our experience. This level of personalized attention was truly impressive and easily the highlight of my experience.
The bar staff were equally attentive, often remembering my order when I'd return for a second (or third!) drink. At the Solarium Bar, the bartender remembered I preferred my piña coladas with extra rum after just one order. This exceptional service alone makes me want to cruise with Royal Caribbean again in the future.
Even the stateroom attendant went above and beyond, creating adorable towel animals each evening (the elephant on night three was my favorite) and ensuring our ice bucket was always full. When I casually mentioned we were celebrating my friend's birthday during the cruise, our attendant surprised us by decorating the door with streamers and leaving a small cake in our cabin, completely unprompted!
Enchantment of the Seas cabins: Cozy, clean, and functional
After reading numerous Enchantment of the Seas cabin reviews, I booked an Oceanview cabin on Deck 7 (midship), which, while not the fanciest option, provided everything I needed and gave some awesome budget-friendly views. With the types of cabins available being, inside, oceanview, balcony, and suites, there are plenty of options for a cozy cabin or connecting cabins for families. For those searching for the best cabins on Enchantment of the Seas, I'd definitely recommend this deck location. To be honest, I spent minimal time in the room anyway, there was too much fun to be had elsewhere on the ship!
Having a window was definitely a nice perk that I'd splurge for again on future cruises. Watching the sunrise over the Caribbean from my bed was worth every penny of the upgrade from an interior cabin. The bed was comfortable (though I should note I sleep on a $100 Amazon mattress at home, so take that as you will), and I was genuinely surprised by the amount of storage space available.
The cabin featured two closets with hanging space, six drawers in the vanity/desk area, shelving in the nightstands, and additional storage under the bed. My friend and I probably used less than 20% of the drawers and cabinets, they somehow packed an impressive amount of storage into a compact space. The only minor inconvenience was the lack of USB outlets for charging devices, I'd recommend bringing an adapter or power strip for future sailings.
The bathroom was admittedly small but included shelving for toiletries and a shower with surprisingly good water pressure. The shower dispensers contained Royal Caribbean's signature Hydro Fresh shampoo and body wash, which had a pleasant citrus scent.
Our cabin location on Deck 7 proved ideal, far enough from the Centrum's music to ensure quiet nights, but centrally located for easy access to most venues. Understanding the Enchantment of the Seas deck plan before booking really pays off. Had we booked on Deck 4, we would have been directly below the casino, theater, and Centrum, which several passengers mentioned was noisy at night. If you're a light sleeper, definitely avoid Deck 4!
All in all, I would say that Enchantment of the Seas room reviews are spot on, cabins are functional, clean, and worth shelling out a little extra money for a sea view.
Enchantment of the Seas dining: Fewer options, solid quality
When it comes to Enchantment of the Seas dining options, I was initially concerned about variety. Since Enchantment is a smaller ship, it doesn't offer the vast array of dining venues you'll find on Royal Caribbean's newer vessels. But what it lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality. My Enchantment of the Seas food reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with praise for casual quick bites, excellent service, and larger meals that are family-friendly and delicious.
Windjammer buffet
My expectations for buffet food weren't particularly high, but Windjammer completely shattered them! It was hands-down the best buffet food I've ever had. The variety was impressive, from every breakfast food imaginable (the made-to-order omelets with fresh avocado were a daily highlight) to international stations featuring Jamaican chicken wraps, Indian butter chicken, and even Beef Wellington on formal night.
The dessert station deserves special mention, the warm chocolate chip cookies were always fresh, and the bread pudding with vanilla sauce was something I'm still dreaming about. During breakfast hours, the fresh-pressed juice bar offered combinations like carrot-orange-ginger that were perfect for starting the day.
What impressed me most was how frequently the food was replenished, ensuring everything remained fresh regardless of when you dined. The staff was constantly monitoring and refreshing each station, and the head chef often walked through to check quality and interact with guests.
My Fair Lady dining room
This more formal sit-down restaurant became our dinner spot of choice. Even without reservations, we were seated almost immediately every time. The food here was excellent, I wasn't disappointed with a single dish I ordered.
Menu highlights included the escargot appetizer (don't knock it until you try it!), the perfectly prepared prime rib with horseradish crust, and the lobster tail served on the second formal night. The chocolate soufflé for dessert was worth saving room for, it arrived piping hot with a gooey center and vanilla ice cream on the side.
Our servers provided attentive, personalized service that made each meal feel special. They offered menu recommendations each night (the herb-crusted sea bass they suggested was indeed fantastic) and performed elaborate napkin tricks for the children at nearby tables. The dining room also hosted a "parade of desserts" night where servers marched through with flaming baked Alaska while singing, a truly memorable spectacle!
Park Café
Enchantment of the Seas dining reviews wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Park Café, located toward the back of the Solarium. While it doesn't offer as much variety as other dining venues, it more than makes up for it with convenience. Open later than other venues, it's perfect for grabbing a quick midnight snack without a formal sit-down experience.
Their made-to-order paninis were exceptional, I particularly enjoyed the Cuban with mustard, ham, pickles, and Swiss cheese. Their signature Kummelweck roast beef sandwich, sliced thin and served on a salted caraway seed roll with au jus for dipping, developed something of a cult following among passengers who discovered it.
The late-night pizza selection rotated daily, with the quattro formaggi (four cheese) being the standout. I enjoyed a slice around midnight before challenging new friends to ping-pong on the nearby tables, the perfect end to a fun-filled day.
Café Latte-tudes
This venue is essentially a Starbucks at sea, complete with ice cream options. I grabbed a Flat White here every morning with my drink package, and it was consistently great. The baristas remembered my order after just the second day, and would start preparing it when they saw me approaching in the morning line.
Their selection included all the familiar coffee drinks you'd expect, plus specialty options like the "Enchantment Mocha" featuring chocolate, coconut, and a hint of rum flavoring. The gelato counter offered eight rotating flavors daily, the pistachio was exceptional and worth the upcharge not covered by the drink package.
Chops Grille
Though I didn't personally dine at Chops Grille (the specialty steakhouse), another guest I befriended described it as "nothing short of amazing." He raved about the 16-ounce ribeye, claiming it rivaled steakhouses he'd visited in Chicago. The venue features more upscale décor than the complimentary dining areas, with dark wood paneling, white tablecloths, and dedicated servers who aren't rotating between venues.
At $54.99 per person, it's definitely a splurge, but from what I gathered from other guests, the dry-aged steaks, premium seafood options, and tableside preparations make it worthwhile for a special occasion.
Entertainment & activities: Small ship, big fun
Looking into Enchantment of the Seas entertainment options before my cruise, I wondered if there would be enough to keep me busy. I needn't have worried. Despite its smaller size, Enchantment offers plenty to keep guests entertained throughout the day and night, making it ideal for Royal Caribbean cruise reviews that focus on activities rather than flashy attractions.
I was thrilled to discover all the Enchantment of the Seas recreation spots that perfectly balanced my vacation vibe. Whether I was seeking an adrenaline rush on the rock climbing wall or a peaceful afternoon lounging in the adults-only Solarium, the ship offered exactly what I needed when I needed it.
Daytime activities
The ship hosted various trivia games (80s Music Trivia in the Schooner Bar was particularly competitive), game shows like "The Quest" and "Battle of the Sexes," karaoke sessions in Boleros, and live music throughout the day. The poolside games led by the entertainment staff, including the hilarious belly flop contest and "Sexiest Man Competition", drew huge crowds and lots of laughs.
The daily activity schedule delivered to our cabin each evening (and available on the Royal Caribbean app) made it easy to plan the next day's adventures. I particularly enjoyed the enrichment activities, including a watercolor painting class in the Centrum and a mixology demonstration at the R Bar where we learned to make the perfect mojito.
For active options, the rock climbing wall on the sports deck provided a challenge with stunning ocean views from the top. The fitness center, while not enormous, offered modern equipment and complimentary classes like morning stretch and abs workout sessions. Premium fitness classes like spin and yoga were available for an additional fee ($12 per class).
Evening productions
I'm not typically a theater person, I rarely attend shows, dance performances, or similar events on land. But I was so impressed by the productions in The Orpheum Theatre that I attended virtually every show throughout my cruise!
The production team delivered incredibly diverse performances, from "Ballroom Fever," a dance showcase featuring everything from tango to quickstep, to the "Piano Man" musical tribute celebrating Billy Joel and Elton John hits. The "Legends in Concert" show featured talented impersonators performing as artists like Freddie Mercury and Madonna. The Argentine dance performance "Tango Buenos Aires" was particularly impressive, featuring professional dancers who had apparently won national competitions in Argentina.
The comedian had me in stitches with his family-friendly early show and his more adult-oriented late-night set. The theater staff circulated before shows, offering drinks to enjoy during the performances.
🛟 Cruisebound tip: arrive 15 minutes early to secure the best seats at the theater, especially for the evening shows.
Casino Royale
For those interested in Enchantment of the Seas casino reviews, I found it to be even better than anticipated. Located on Deck 5, the Casino Royale offered an impressive selection of gaming options for casual gamblers. The slot machines ranged from penny slots to $5 machines, including favorites like Buffalo Grand and Lightning Link. I might shamelessly add that I got pretty lucky on a Zeus machine that paid out $340 on a $1 spin!
The table games section included four blackjack tables (minimum bets starting at $6 during the day and $10 at night), two roulette wheels, a craps table, and Three Card Poker. The Texas Hold'em tables were particularly popular, with daily tournaments that had a $60 buy-in.
The servers were attentive, constantly checking if guests needed drinks or anything else to enhance their experience.
Bars & lounges
Bars were conveniently located throughout the ship, ensuring you were never far from a refreshment. Each venue had its own distinct personality and allowed you to bar hop until early morning hours, creating instant social scenes. Bartenders were friendly and attentive, easily remembering how you liked your drinks.
R Bar
A highlight of many Enchantment of the Seas cruise reviews, the R Bar, located in the Centrum, became our go-to spot for pre-dinner drinks. Their signature cocktail menu featured classics with modern twists, like the "R Moment" (a bourbon old-fashioned with black walnut bitters) and the "Cucumber Cooler" (gin, cucumber, mint, and lime). The central location made it perfect for people-watching as activities and live music often took place in the adjacent Centrum space.
Schooner Bar
This nautical-themed piano bar on Deck 6 hosted lively sing-alongs each night. The talented pianist could play seemingly any requested song and had the entire bar singing "Piano Man" at the top of their lungs by midnight. Their specialty was classic cocktails, the Sazerac and Manhattan were particularly well-crafted.
Boleros
This Latin-inspired lounge featured live salsa music most nights and the best mojitos on the ship. The band "Rhythm and Spice" had everyone dancing with their energetic performances of Latin classics and current hits with a salsa twist. Even if you're not a dancer, it's worth visiting for the atmosphere alone, and the bartenders are happy to give impromptu salsa lessons to willing participants!
Viking Crown Lounge
Located on Deck 11 with panoramic views, this venue transformed from a quiet observation lounge during the day to a lively nightclub after dark. The resident DJ spun everything from 70s disco classics to current hits, keeping the dance floor packed until the early morning hours. Their signature "Crown Royal" (a combination of Crown Royal whisky, peach schnapps, and cranberry juice) packed quite a punch!
Pool Bar & Solarium Bar
These convenient options kept the drinks flowing during sea days. The Pool Bar specialized in frozen concoctions like the "Miami Vice" (half piña colada, half strawberry daiquiri) and the potent "Bahama Mama." The Solarium Bar offered a slightly more sophisticated menu, including a refreshing "Cucumber Gin Spritz" that was perfect for sipping while lounging in the adults-only area.
While most bars offered the same standard drinks, each featured specialty options unique to their venue. The bartenders were friendly and often remembered returning guests, adding to the ship's personal touch. With the beverage package, I was able to sample widely without worrying about mounting costs, though premium options like the Macallan 18 were still subject to an upcharge.
Related: What are the best party cruises? Here are 4 must-sail ships
Pools & outdoor spaces
One common question I saw online was "does Enchantment of the Seas have water slides?" While it doesn't feature water slides like some newer Royal Caribbean ships, Enchantment features multiple pool areas, each with its own vibe. The main pool on Deck 9 was the center of daytime activity, with energetic music, poolside games, and the attentive Pool Bar staff keeping spirits high. Despite the ship being at near capacity, I never had trouble finding a lounger, though prime spots were claimed early on sea days.
The adults-only Solarium pool offered a more relaxed atmosphere with comfortable padded loungers and a retractable glass roof that kept the area usable regardless of weather. I spent most mornings here with a book and coffee before the midday crowds appeared. The whirlpools in this area were particularly hot,perfect for soothing muscles after a session at the rock climbing wall.
The pool towel system was convenient, simply present your SeaPass card at the towel station, and you could exchange wet towels for dry ones throughout the day without charge (though unreturned towels would incur a $25 fee).
Spa & fitness
The Vitality Spa offered a full menu of treatments, from basic massages to more exotic offerings like bamboo massage and hot stone therapy. I splurged on a 50-minute Swedish massage ($159 plus 18% automatic gratuity) that worked out knots I didn't even know I had! The relaxation room with heated ceramic loungers and complimentary fruit-infused water was a nice pre-treatment perk.
The adjacent fitness center featured modern cardio equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes) and a modest selection of weight machines and free weights. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided inspiring ocean views during workouts. The morning stretch classes were a great way to start the day, especially after perhaps overindulging the night before.
Sports Deck
Beyond the rock climbing wall (which was admittedly less intimidating than it looked), the sports deck offered numerous activities. The basketball court hosted pickup games and organized tournaments, while the ping-pong tables near Park Café were perpetually in use. The shuffleboard courts on Deck 10 attracted a surprisingly competitive crowd, with impromptu tournaments breaking out most afternoons.
The jogging track is located on Deck 10 and encircles the pool lounge area. The track's length is approximately 1,241 feet, meaning that approximately 4.3 laps equal one mile, a nice way to burn off some of the Windjammer's delicious desserts!
Enchantment of the Seas destinations and shore excursions
Many Enchantment of the Seas cruise excursion reviews emphasize the importance of ports, and include popular destinations like the Bahamas and Mexico. Our itinerary included gorgeous ports in Mexico stopping at Costa Maya and Cozumel, which provided a nice balance to our days at sea. Unlike some Enchantment of the Seas sailings from Tampa that visit different destinations, our Western Caribbean route kept us at a limited number of ports, letting us enjoy plenty of days at sea along with exciting destinations.
Costa Maya
Costa Maya offered shopping opportunities and a pool area right at the port. The shopping complex featured the usual duty-free shops selling jewelry, liquor, and souvenirs, alongside local vendors with handcrafted items. The giant Tequila store offered generous samples of various flavored options - the coffee tequila was surprisingly delicious!
While I didn't venture far or book an excursion here, it was nice to step onto land briefly after being at sea. The large pool area at the port complex featured swim-up bars and lounge chairs available at no charge. A group of local performers presented traditional Mayan dances throughout the afternoon, adding some cultural flair to the commercial port area.
For those seeking more authentic experiences, shore excursions to the Chacchoben Mayan ruins or the fishing village of Mahahual were available but required advance booking. Several passengers I spoke with raved about the "Salsa & Salsa" excursion, which combined cooking lessons for salsa with dance instructions.
Cozumel & our ATV adventure
In Cozumel, my friend and I splurged on an ATV shore excursion to Cenote Chempita that was worth every penny. Booking through the Royal Caribbean app was simple, and meeting our group and arranging transportation was hassle-free.
After a 30-minute bus ride with other guests, we reached our starting point for a 30-40 minute ATV ride to Cenote Chempita (also known as the Jade Cavern). Thanks to recent rainfall, the rocky terrain guaranteed we'd get dirty, which was part of the fun! The trail wound through dense jungle, with our guides occasionally stopping to point out local flora and fauna, including a family of coatis (raccoon-like animals) crossing our path.
Upon arrival at the cenote, we had the option to swim in the crystal-clear cavern water, which maintained a refreshing temperature year-round. The natural limestone formation created spectacular stalactites hanging from the cavern ceiling, illuminated by natural light filtering through an opening above. Our guides shared fascinating information about how the ancient Mayans considered cenotes sacred portals to the underworld.
After exploring and swimming, we headed back along a different route offering coastal views before finishing with the promised free tequila tasting! We sampled silver, reposado, and añejo varieties, along with several flavored options including mango and chocolate.
Our guides were knowledgeable, funny, and prioritized safety throughout the experience. They provided clear instructions for operating the ATVs and kept our group of about 12 riders together without making the experience feel rushed or overly restrictive.
At $89 per person, the excursion wasn't cheap, but the 4-hour adventure provided a perfect change of pace from shipboard activities. I'd highly recommend bringing water shoes, a waterproof camera, and clothes you don't mind getting muddy!
The port area in Cozumel also offers excellent duty-free shopping, with better prices on premium liquor and designer goods than I found in Costa Maya. The Punta Langosta mall right at the pier had all the standard shops plus some local boutiques selling authentic Mexican crafts.
Related: Best Mexico cruises
Hidden perks: The Royal Caribbean app
One aspect of the cruise experience that deserves special mention is Royal Caribbean's mobile app. It made navigating activities, dining, and the overall cruise experience significantly easier. For those wondering "does Enchantment of the Seas have Wi-Fi?" the answer is yes, and the app works wonderfully with it. Without the app, I'm not sure my experience would have been as easy as it was. I'd consider this essential for anyone sailing with Royal Caribbean.
The app provides daily schedules, allows for dining reservations, and sends alerts about upcoming events you've marked as interesting. You can also view your onboard account in real-time to track spending, book shore excursions, and even use the chat feature to communicate with companions without paying for an internet package.
Speaking of internet, the VOOM Wi-Fi package ($12.99 per day) worked surprisingly well throughout the ship, even in the middle of the ocean. While not lightning-fast, it was reliable enough to post Instagram stories of my adventures and check in with family back home.
The app's digital key feature also allowed us to unlock our stateroom without carrying the SeaPass card everywhere, especially convenient when heading to the pool in swimwear with limited pocket options!
Cruisebound tips for Enchantment of the Sea cruisers
Many Enchantment of the Seas reviews on Tripadvisor mention cruising tips, but these insights come from my personal experience. If you're searching for insider information about what's included on Enchantment of the Seas and how to maximize your cruise, here are my recommendations:
Best cabin locations: If possible, choose a cabin on Deck 7 or higher to avoid noise from public venues. The Junior Suites on Deck 7 aft (like cabin 7666) have larger balconies than standard balcony rooms.
Dining strategy: If you prefer a specific waiter in the main dining room, ask the maître d' on the first night to note your preference in the system. For Windjammer, arriving 30 minutes before peak times (8:00am for breakfast, 12:30pm for lunch) ensures the best selection and seating.
Entertainment booking: While formal reservations aren't required for shows, arriving 15-20 minutes early guarantees good seats, especially for popular performances like the comedian and production shows.
Drink package value: If you'll have at least 5-6 drinks daily (including specialty coffees, fresh juices, and bottled water), the Deluxe Beverage Package quickly pays for itself. Watch for pre-cruise sales that can reduce the package price by 20-30%.
Pack smart: Bring a power strip (non-surge protected, as those will be confiscated), magnetic hooks for the metal cabin walls to create extra hanging space, and a reusable water bottle to fill at Windjammer's drink stations.
Embarkation timing: Arriving at the terminal between 1:30-2:00pm meant virtually no lines and immediate boarding, with our cabin already available.
Would I sail Enchantment of the Seas again?
As I conclude my Enchantment of the Seas review, I can say with confidence that my experience was absolutely fantastic! Is Enchantment of the Seas a good ship? Most definitely!
For those looking at Enchantment of the Seas reviews 2025, I can confirm the ship continues to deliver excellent value and service. While I'd love to try cruising on different Royal Caribbean ships in the future (perhaps one of their newer vessels with all the bells and whistles), if someone told me I was going on another Enchantment sailing, I'd be genuinely excited.
The exceptional service from crew members in the dining room, the Solarium Bar, and our cabin attendant created a truly memorable experience. The intimate atmosphere allowed me to form friendships with fellow passengers that I'm maintaining even after returning home.
While Enchantment of the Seas lacks the flashy features of Royal's newest ships (no FlowRider surf simulator, no Broadway shows, no robot bartenders), it delivers where it matters most: comfortable accommodations, delicious food, entertaining activities, and that incredibly personalized service that made me feel valued throughout my stay.
For travelers who prioritize value, easy navigation, and a friendly atmosphere over cutting-edge amenities, Enchantment of the Seas offers an excellent choice. Cruises start around $350 per person, making this a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy Royal Caribbean's legendary service and entertainment.
As I reflect on my time aboard Enchantment of the Seas, I can confidently say I'd recommend it without hesitation, especially for first-time cruisers, families seeking an easy-to-navigate ship, or travelers who value personal connections over flashy attractions. This ship punches well above its weight class in delivering a memorable vacation experience.
Thank you, Royal Caribbean (and Cruisebound), for an unforgettable first cruise experience!
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