First cruise for me and the wife. First of all (and I knew this up front), anyone who thinks the intial price you pay for a cruise is "all inclusive" is living in a fool's paradise. If you realize this up front, you will be ok. If not, you will be like some of the people I saw on this cruise that complain and moan about every aspect of having to "pay" for anything, like the guy at the lobby bar who complained to the bartender about having to pay $6.95 for a shot of Makers Mark, or the old man who had a free drink certificate that could only be redeemed in the dining room complaining to the bartender at the Lido Deck because he couldn't use it there. The intitial price you pay gets you in the door...if you like to drink cocktails, shop, spend money on shore excursions, etc., you will pay. And it will probably be at least $1000 more. So do your research and stop complaining. It's still a decent value. Here are my impressions.

Embarkation - LOL at all the people complaining about delays. Yeah, if you arrive at the cruise terminal at 9:15 AM like some of the people I saw that were staying at the Hotel Maya like I was in Long Beach decide to do then you will wait. Is being first in line at the free buffet that important to you? We took the shuttle to the cruise terminal from the Maya, arrived at 12:20, dropped off the bags, and were on the ship by 1:00 PM. We basically never stopped moving going through check in, customs, picture for the Sail and Sign, etc. The ship doesn't sail until 5 PM for heaven's sake. Sleep in, eat brunch at the hotel, take a walk, then go to the ship. The food will still be there when you arrive. By the way, The Maya in Long Beach is a fantastic place to stay. Loved it...had a great night in Fuego (the bar/restaurant at the hotel) the night before the cruise.

The Ship - Big. So big that we never felt crowded even with 3000+ on board. Immaculately clean with friendly people (who must put up with some very difficult people on board) who make you feel welcome at every turn. Read more