Background: Our party of 4 retired military adults cruise together twice annually. I thought that cruising the length of the Canal would be a great experience and I wasn't wrong. We cruised from Miami, through the Canal and debarked in Long Beach. Thinking back, those cruises that provide an experience going through either the Caribbean or Pacific locks and then return to home port would be just as interesting.
Hotel: We stayed at Homestead AFR Base and found the quarters to be modern and well maintained. I recommend checking out the space available prospects for retired service members.
The Star: I really liked this ship. Although full, I didn't get the feeling of being crowded or "too close" to my fellow travelers. There seemed to be plenty of space for sun worshipers and those who prefer to find a special nook for some quiet solitude. There are a number of dining venues so there's never a long wait for a table or a spot at the buffet - more on this under "dining." The ship exterior is colorfully decorated and well maintained by the crew. There seems to be adequate provision for handicapped travelers and both the crew and other passengers seemed to defer to those who required a little more time or assistance.