Background: We are a family of 5 ( 14 yo + twin 6 year-olds ) on our first family cruise although my wife and I cruised on Carnival 20 years ago for our honeymoon.

Arrival at Manhattan Pier: Our drive to New York, other than avoiding a snowstorm in the Adirondacks was smooth and, there was plenty of parking at the pier. It was nice to be able to see our vehicle from our balcony cabin on the ship.

Embarkation: We arrived at the pier at 12:30 p.m. and were having lunch at the Grand Pacific by 1:30 p.m. Although there was a long lineup at check-in it went quite smoothly. Note for NCL, do not issue pass keys to children with credit without parental approval..why would I want my 6 year-old to be able to put things on my credit card ??? Read more