Took this trip (the latest of over 50 cruises) to take the Panama Canal off our "bucket list".

NCL got just about everything right . . . from a great variety of food to a pleasant "right size" ship to a fantastic crew. I have a mobility issue and help was there all the time . . .without ever asking.

This is the sister ship of the Jade and Gem. The Russian Palace theme works great to make the dining areas light, relaxed, and yet elegant. The cruise was well set up as to ports and NCL has gotten better at their sightseeing options and operations. The food choices include two main dining rooms with varied and tasteful choices plus a 24 hour on-board "diner" and an Asian restaurant . . . all complimentary with a long hours buffet. There are also four premium restaurants if the included variety is not enough, and NCL does things like German fests and barbeques to mix it up even more. Read more