This Nov 29 -- Dec 2, 2012 review is written as a second-time cruiser on the Nieuw Amsterdam and a multi-time HAL cruiser on Vista-class ships.

Luggage: Since so many new cruisers are interested in "packing," I'll add a few tidbits. With a laundry package included in the stateroom price, we pack for three days casual and one formal night that translates to one suitcase. A second suitcase includes miscellaneous non-expensive photographic support items (spare batteries, chargers, tripods, adapters, computer case, etc.), backpacks, thermos bottles, white noise machine, extension cords, duct tape, curtain clamps, computer carrying cases (computers, tablets, and cameras are always packed in carry-on luggage sans cases), HAL collapsible suitcase for potential souvenirs, and lots of empty space for my pre-cruise purchase of Mountain Dew (2 per cruise day), granola bars, and liquid toiletries.

Pre-cruise hotel: We stayed at the Sleep Inn in Dania Beach, Florida, with its walking distance to Walgreen's, three restaurants (Chinese, Italian, and Mexican), and a Publix grocery with a good deli. The hotel facilities were fine but breakfast in a cruise-oriented hotel is always chaotic and crowded. The hotel chain has a dedicated van but we chose to take a taxi for $14 + tip to the port to avoid the crowd and stacks of luggage for several stops. Read more