As the 6 of us, ages 33-54, entered the Port of Tampa for what would be my first cruise, the fun began. We had a man driving, 4 women in the truck, and one man in the bed of the truck with the luggage. The security guard teased our friend who was driving about wanting to make a drop-off when it was him and 4 women in the truck! The drop-off was made, our friend went to park the car. Within minutes, a porter came by to take our luggage. We entered the port and got on the line for those who pre-registered their Sail & Sign information. Again, only took minutes to check in, have our first cruise photo taken, and enter the ship. We were all very excited, although that may have had something to do with our Margarita toast before we left for the port. Staff was available and very welcoming, and directed us to our cabin. My sister and I had an outside cabin with 2 portholes. The 2 beds were easily moveable, so we put them in 2 different directions which opened up the entire middle of the room. Suitcases fit easily under the beds, and closet space was surprisingly spacious. Plenty of hangers as well. Beautiful vanity area with a chair and good lighting (you know us girls with hair and make-up!). Bathroom had enough space and was very clean.

We then met up with our friends in the Brasserie Bistro (buffet restaurant). I'm a healthy, low-fat eater. I had no problem sticking to my way of eating. Salad bar was great, Low-carb cheesecake was just OK, but in my mind, I had cheesecake. Plenty of hot foods, and some good sandwiches at the grill. Later in the week, I had a mozzarella and roasted red pepper sandwich - loved it! After exploring the ship, we went to the Serenity (adult) area to wait until it was time to pass under the Skyway Bridge in Tampa. Enjoyed some sushi in the meanwhile, which opened at 5:00 on the Promenade. Everyone cheered as we passed under the bridge, then we headed back to the cabin to get ready for our first night.

We had the late dinner seating in the Carnivale. Our wait staff really became part of our vacation. They were alot of fun, and very entertaining. Don't ask me how, but the assistant waiter new my name after 2 days, despite the fact that I never told him. Come to think of it, he knew all 6 of our names. Personal service. I don't eat meat, so I can only comment on the seafood. I ordered fish from the spa menu (no macaroni & cheese on the side, no heavy sauce on top). Very good and elaborately presented. Had the "diet" dessert from the spa menu each night. You wouldn't know it was made with sugar substitute if they didn't tell you. I even took a picture of the orange cake. Read more