Ok, so I will start by saying this was my second cruise ever. My family cruised on the Pride last year and had a wonderful experience. We were very excited about the Splendor because it was a larger and newer ship, so we had grander expectations of what type of experience we would have.

Embarcation: This was very smooth for the most part. Let me explain. We embarked at the Manhattan Cruise terminal and it was a very efficient terminal. We had purchased the Faster to the Fun VIP status and we sailed through the initial lines. We were put into a bit of a holding pattern once we had gotten through the line where you show your boarding pass and get your Sail and Sign Cards. They said it was because there was some sort of Coast Guard Test on the ship but I don't believe this. I think something happened. Just not sure what. Once the boarding resumed we were on the ship and in our cabins quickly.

Cabins: We traveled with two children and purchased adjoining interior cabins so the kids would have their own sleeping area. We had a balcony room on the Pride last year and found it to be very tight. We loved the setup of the interior cabin. We had plenty of room. My only complaint is that it was above the casino which got very loud and rowdy between 2-5 am. The room was kept very nicely and we had a wonderful Steward Alit (Al) who made it a point to always address us by name and make conversation with us and the children. One night I reluctantly let my daughter attend a show with a friend she had met with strict orders she return to the cabin after, and when Al learned she was at the show he seemed concerned she was there without one of us. He was very, very kind. We tipped him very well as he took great care of us and he worked very hard and seemed to appreciate the tips. Read more