This was our 4th NCL cruise. We have previously been on the Star, Jewel and Dream. While on the Jewel last year, we purchased what was then called "Latitudes Bonus Rewards", whereby you would pre-pay for future cruises. (This program is no longer offered.) We paid the amount that would make us Platinum Latitude members, thus we have had premium service since. While we were assigned to Penthouse 9500, our booking was originally for a BA aft balcony. The upsell desk contacted us approximately 90 days prior to sailing, offering the AC penthouse for a total of $500 more. It was a "no-brainer" to make that decision. With that in mind, here is my Review:

Embarkation Day: Our flight left El Paso, TX about ½ hour late since they had to de-ice the plane. This is not supposed to happen in the desert! Arrived in DFW on time and would've left on schedule, but again, de-icing was necessary. This delay, and the horrendous Miami airport, nearly caused us to miss the ship! Our flight was scheduled to land at 1:55 PM, arriving 15 minutes late, and then we walked a mile to reach the luggage claim area. As soon as that was in our hands, we were out the door, hailing a cab. Miami has a flat rate for taxis to the pier, so it only cost us $12 each to reach the pier. We were so late; we had no line at all. Registered and picked up our cards and we went through the scanner without a hitch. We were too late for the Concierge Lounge, so we boarded the ship on our own. 3:30 PM and Penthouse 9500 was ready and waiting for us!

Our suite was gorgeous! From the two-sided closet, the 37" flat-panel TV with DVD/CD player, coffee/espresso/cappuccino maker, a huge bouquet of fresh flowers, basket of fruit and chilled champagne, dining area for 4, sitting area, wonderfully comfortable bed, nicely appointed vanity area, ample storage, robes, and luxury towels/bedding, this was exactly as pictured/imagined. We also had a huge balcony that we took advantage of every day. A sign is posted on the bulkhead door to keep the door closed at night, but it was never locked and we were able to enjoy this space at all times of the day and night. Being a forward cabin, it was windy but no more so than any other forward area of the ship. It was very peaceful reading and listening to music on our balcony while enjoying a beverage. Read more