This was our first cruise, and we were limited to this cruise due to dates of sailing and proximity to Monterey (we didn't want to fly). We went in with an open mind, as it was our first experience.

Booked a Balcony GTY and got an 8H, Riviera deck 8247. Not a bad assignment at all! The cabin was clean and kept that way by our stewards, who often had to wait for US to leave the room. Although small, it was laid out nicely and had a ton of storage. Our garment bag fit under the bed nicely, but our rolling duffel did not collapse enough and we had to store that in one of the closets. Always had ice in the bucket and glasses were replaced at least once a day. The bed linens were cozy and soft. Spent a LOT of time on the balcony reading and drinking and enjoying the fresh breezes and view.

Food was excellent across the board, from the Lido Deck Buffet (you MUST try a grilled reuben) to the Normandie Restaurant to David's Supper Club. Attentive and pleasant service throughout the ship. If you tried an item and didn't like it, it was no trouble at all to switch it out. My only complaints were the 24 hour pizza wasn't available 24 hours, and a few times all the ice cream machines(also supposedly 24 hours) were all down at once for cleaning. Read more