Let me begin by stating that my DW and I consider ourselves to be experienced cruisers. We have taken 13 cruises (Carnival (5), RCCL (2), Disney (2), Celebrity, Premier, Princess, and HAL) and it has become our vacation of choice. Our children (ages 5 and 8) are also avid cruise fans with 5 cruises under their belts. For this cruise we decided to try a New York departure (probably more out of curiosity than anything else) as we found our New Orleans cruise (Conquest 8/2005) to have a very different crowd than the Florida ports. So here we go:

DEPARTURE/EMBARKATION: We had an uneventful flight from Cincinnati to LGA and found our driver waiting at the baggage claim. A 45 min. drive through NY traffic and we arrived at the Manhattan Pier 90 close to 10:45. Porters were on the spot and baggage whisked away. As we were a bit early, we didn't expect the check-in desk to be open but it was. Checked in (2-min) and had a seat in the holding area. After about 45 min, we were allowed to board. I must admit, this was the smoothest embarkation we have ever experienced. Overall grade A.

Ports: SAN JUAN: We have visited San Juan on several cruises and aren't big fans. We have been to the rain forest, El Junque, and would recommend that tour. We decided to take a carriage tour to some of the local historical sites fou our daughters benefit. The girls enjoyed the ride and we returned to the ship. Overall grade C. Read more