To start, we are a couple early/mid forties who sailed kid free. We stayed one night pre-cruise at the Doubletree Times Square. Great hotel, unfortunately the morning we left was the morning of a marathon we knew nothing about. Let's just say hauling our suitcases several blocks in Manhattan in the freezing cold was not how I pictured the start to our cruise, however that was the end of our bad luck!

Embarkation was a breeze. We were at the port by 10:00 ish (not as early as I hoped due to the marathon) dropped our bags with the porter, he put the tags on the bags for us with a smile, tipped a few bucks and we were off. Boarding group #6, this did not make me happy as I really wanted Vibe passes, and per prior cruisers I knew you had to be quick to board, or would be out of luck. It only took a few minutes and boarding started however. As soon as we were on we briskly walked to guest services to the Vibe pass line. There were several people ahead of us, and two couples who saved a spot for 12 people, (that did not go over well with the rest of us who were already in line), then were told we were the last 2 people they were taking. Needless to say we did end up with the last two passes, after a bit of drama and convincing by the wonderful family in front of us. :)

We headed to our room at this point to drop off our carry on's. We ended up with a spa mini suite after upgrading a couple of times from an ocean view, and were happy we did! The room was very nice, small balcony like everyone says, but two chairs and a small table were all we needed. The bathroom was wonderful with double sinks, lots of storage spots, and the best waterfall shower with a door, and multiple body jets! Plenty of storage in the room, and we stashed our suitcases under the bed. We enjoyed and used our in room coffee maker every morning, and asked for extra coffee pods, if you double up for each cup the coffee is a little stronger. After the first time we asked for extras, the room steward made sure they were there everyday. I can't remember his name, but he was wonderful, nice clean cabin, towel animals every night, and always around to say hello with a smile, and to inquire if we needed anything. Read more