We've recently returned from the 8 night Spirit cruise to Bermuda, Tortola and St. Thomas, June 2 sailing. We're two mid-50's females and my two teenaged daughters. First time on NCL for all of us, having traveled RCCL, Celebrity, Premier, and the old Home Lines before. We had one balcony cabin and one inside cabin for the kids on deck 9, mid-ship. Overall we had a very enjoyable vacation, but I have to say I'm not too sure I'm a fan of Freestyle, especially dining.

Embarkation: We drove from the mid-Atlantic area to NYC in the morning. Must say it was easier than I thought. I was worried about driving in NYC but had no problems, and people at the port were nice and helpful, even when I dropped off the party in what was supposed to be the pickup spot. Only one ship in port that day helped I'm sure. For some reason we were delayed quite awhile, sitting around waiting to check in. I have heard that it was the fault of debarking passengers, but I don't think that NCL did as good a job as they could have in informing us what the hold up was. They really need to get microphones or bullhorns for the ladies walking the aisles trying to shout instructions over the din. When we finally did get in line for check in though, it went pretty smoothly and quick. Be ready to have your hands squirted with sanitizer before you even walk up the gangway however.

Cabin: Both the balcony cabin and the inside cabin were fine and seemed to be adequately maintained. As others have commented, the beds were rock hard however, even with the requested egg crate foam padding added. Sleeping was fitful a few nights. Storage was tight but ok for the 8 nights. This was the first time I've had a balcony, it was great ! The balcony itself was nothing special, room for 2 chairs (very comfy) and a plastic table, but the fresh air and ability to step outside whenever we wanted was fabulous. I'm probably spoiled now forever. The inside room seemed rather larger than other insides I've been in, and laid out well. Bathrooms were fine. The balcony bathroom was divided into 3 separate compartments for the toilet, the sink area and the shower. I didn't like that, as it seemed to make things a bit more crunched and it was no real benefit to us; only one person in there at a time anyway. Inside bathroom was not divided like that. The shower has a glass door and was pretty roomy, very nice. Water pressure was fine, and plenty of hot water. Cabin stewards did a fine job, no complaints there. Read more