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DH and I along with our another couple took this same cruise out of Baltimore last year. I reviewed the cruise at that time. However, we created a new memory and experience the second time around so I felt it was worth reviewing again.
Baltimore is an easy to port to sail from - very efficient and easy to get to. This year, there was a delay in the return of the previous cruise so we were delayed getting on the ship. The Port personnel were prepared for the circumstance and despite the long wait to embark, everything was smooth.
The highlight of our cruise was the Chef's Table -- well worth the $75/person. We signed up as soon as we boarded the ship for Tuesday night (offered only twice during the cruise and no more tha 14 people for each offering). Vivek, the Executive Chef at the time (he is now on his vacation), came to our table in the dining room on Monday night to introduce himself and tell us what a wonderful experience we will have.
Tuesday, we received a call that that evening's Chef Table was cancelled and the 4 of us were being moved to Friday's Chef Table (the rest of the guests for that dinner were a party of 10 and someone got sick so they cancelled). Vivek came to our table on Tuesday night to apologize and that he looked forward to seeing us on Friday (even if everyone else cancelled - he would still have the Chef's table dinner for the 4 of us).
The Chef's table was superb!!!!! There were 12 of us. We had a tour of the galley along with a champagne reception. I don't eat certain foods and Vivke ensured that my food was prepared without those items. We then went to the Disco where an elegant table was set. We had a 7 course meal. wine kept appearing in our glasses (wine and the champagne were included ni the $75). Vivek explained each dish. Food was fabulous. The Wagyu beef short ribs fell off the bone and melted in the mouth.
Part way through the meal, we took a break from eating and were entertained by a mentalist. He was very entertaining. We still have my husband's quarter that the mentalist bent. I highly recommend the Chef's Table.
First two days were at sea. The roof was closed for the main pool, the sun was shining and people spent time up on the pool decks. The adult pool area's pool had a cover on it (it was cold), but the hot tub was in use.
In Port Canaveral, we took the excursion to the Magic Kingdom. Weather was perfect - about 70 degrees (16 degrees in MD :) ). Had plenty of time in the park and arrived back on board at 5:30 p.m.
Nassau and Freeport - did not take any excursions. Our friends hired a driver to take them on a tour of the caves in Nassau and had a great time. Weather was perfect again in Nassau (high 70s) and we walked around town then spent the afternoon at the Adult Serenity Pool.
Disembarkation was smooth and we were home by 12:30.
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