We have been on approximately 15 cruises with 5 different carriers. We are not perfectionists, by any means ..... but wow, what an experience on this first time NCL cruise! I am honest, and will give credit, where credit is due. This 10 day trip included both the Christmas and New Year's holidays. Ship was very nicely decorated and did fill you with the holiday spirit. Overall, the staff did work very hard; we did hear that there were approximately 3000 passengers on a ship that normally accommodates 2500. Okay ....... holiday family cruise. No problem; we have been there, been the family with young children in the past so "suck it up". We were interested in experiencing the "Freestyling" approach on this line. Yep ..... we did!

The food at the specialty restaurants was generally good but would not challenge New York restaurants. We enjoyed late night buffalo wings at O'Sheehans several times but were disappointed that the late night offerings were so limited (no late night pizza). The pastries were a major disappointment - cafeteria stuff. The only good pastry was a Philippine pastry offered in the Atrium (raisin danish), which was the standard on Royal Caribbean.

Lots of food at the buffet, but after 3 to 4 days, you have had your fill of the same stuff. Okay ..... Let's try the dining rooms! Hmm... change of four entrees and the chef recommendation daily. Well .... are you looking for the customary lobster, prime rib and escargot nights? Not happening, folks. Yes, there are 5 (I think) specialty dining experiences which cost additional money. We signed up for 3 before we sailed. Too bad the restaurants did not have our reservation and for two back to back days, were were turned away ..... despite being told the error was rectified after the first night. Not a big deal ... but .....Christmas Eve and Christmas Day? Yes, they did offer a glass of champagne and a lunch, which was appreciated. But, after the second issue, when asked to speak to a manager, they were "busy". I really felt sorry for the restaurant manager that was left trying to fix the issue. I will say that this appeared to be a common theme from speaking with other passengers. No access to higher level officers, and the crew assigned to specific roles had to answer to issues they were not responsible for and beyond their control. Read more