This year's Annual Family Cruise was a big hit. For us, the children and grandchildren - it's a great opportunity for quality time together. With two of driving and the others arriving on two different flights, staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-Airport South-Blue Lagoon was a good choice. Take in works for dinner and a free breakfast is included. Van service to the port at $10 per person is very convenient.

Embarkation was smoother than we had expected and after a quick Windjammer lunch, we were enjoying the ship. Having sailed on Mariner and Explorer for previous family events, the big issue was figuring out the differences and new locations on Freedom. Smart move was to have FlowRider working on embarkation day. Our gang was there in a flash.

Of course Freedom is monstrous in size - too large for us. But size provides what we wanted which is enough to keep everyone interested and busy. Read more