We drove into Galveston on Saturday and spent the afternoon driving around the island and walking downtown looking at the lovely homes. It was a very pretty little town and we would like to have had more time to explore, we plan to go back. We drove in via Bolivar Island and it was quite a sight with pasture on one side and beautiful, undeveloped beachfront on the other...nice.

We left early for the port, around 10:30 am because, quite simply, we were so excited. The porters were friendly and helpful and before we knew it we were checked in (by friendly, efficient staff) and awaiting the time to board. The waiting area was neat, clean, cool and comfortable. The staff were very professional and patient. There were 2 wedding parties on this cruise, they took priority and were allowed to board first. Then it was our turn. We took our pictures with a tropical background and were off!

My husband, 13 y/o daughter and 15y/o son were all so happy to finally be on our first cruise. We went to our cabin, which was ready (the time by then was around 12 or 12:30 pm). Put up our carry-on items and headed to the Lido deck for a buffet lunch, which was very good. Back in our cabins we didn't even know we had left port until my daughter ran in and told us, so we went back up and watched as we sailed out into the Gulf. Dinner the first night was fried shrimp for my daughter and myself, steak for my son and husband...all very tasty. Read more