Flew from Chicago with American Airlines on Memorial Day weekend. Very disorganized at the airport, with too few AA staff onhand to assist passengers. TIP - Check in on-line before going to the airport. Stayed 2 nights in Miami prior to the cruise at the excellent Conrad Hilton. Met parents there who had flown in from UK for the cruise, their room wasn't ready so they were offered free food and drinks. Hotel outstanding quality, but 2am check-in at empty reception desk after flight delayed 4 hours still took 30 minutes...way too long.

Took taxi from hotel to port, embarkation - reasonable queue, but moved along well. Embarkation staff gave incorrect information about immigration forms (see later). Longest line was 'sign and sail card' onboard the ship, which was obligatory. Could have been improved with better trained staff. Given early dinner seating, requested late sitting, but Maitre'D was able to accommodate our change request. Room was dusty, but bathroom was clean. Excellent service from room steward. Balcony room worth the extra money in my opinion. Small, but enables you to check the weather before venturing outdoors.

Food in dining rooms was of excellent quality. One of our party is vegetarian and there was always a good choice. However, the buffets on deck are like a cattle market. I highly recommend taking the time to visit the dining room for formal breakfast and lunch...no waiting in line and excellent service, with just as much if not more choice as the buffet. Buffet is good for those with children who can't sit still for long, or who don't want to change out of swimwear. Read more