My husband and I travel extensively to Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Canada and the U.S. I am not a "cruiser", but when friends were unable to join us for our annual anniversary trip to Mexico, we decided at the last minute to take a short cruise to the Bahamas "just to get out of town" for a few days.

We drove to Cape Canaveral last Friday, went through the customs building, then unloaded our suitcases in our cabin on the 8th floor. The space was larger than the last cruise we were in in the early 80's, and had a nice window view. Was happy to see a safe and mini-fridge. The bathroom and shower were extremely small, but tolerable.

Next we strolled around the ship to "check it out". The pool area was packed with "people sardines". Loud music was blasting from speakers--a "Chucky Cheese" on steroids. No breeze-sun blasting in. Guests were literally inches from each other on deck loungers. The Solarium area was much quieter, but it was very hot. Surrounding this pool/ whirlpool area were very tacky plastic flowers and greenery. So ugly when live plants would have enhanced the ambiance. The spa is in this area, as well as the Park Café, where you can get small salads, sandwiches, and soup. Cocktails can only be obtained from the Oasis Bar at the main pool. Deck 10 is a jogging/walking deck, with Teen and Kid's Centers, a nursery, video arcade, fitness center, Rock climbing wall, "The Jump Zone", and gym. Deck 11 is the Viking Crown Lounge.(disco) Read more