We were on the January 3 sailing of the Dawn, leaving from New Orleans. This was our 7th NCL Cruise (previously sailed on Star, Breakaway (twice), Epic, Getaway and Jewel), and our first as “Gold” latitudes members. Stayed in an obstructed window on Deck 8.

This was an excellent cruise, proving to us once again, that the smaller ships are where it’s at. Great entertainment, nightly at 7pm and 9pm. We reserved all shows and dining in advance of sail. We found for us eating at 630 and hitting the 9pm show the best route to go. Shows are all about 45-60 minutes long so even with the night show, there was plenty going on after.

We received the free booze package and the free 4-night specialty dining. On this ship, we actually wouldn’t have minded eating in the MDRs every night as the food was excellent and hot. However, because of the free package, we ate at Cagney’s and LaCucina (fiance’s faves) and LeBistro and Moderno (my faves). All were excellent as always. We had zero food issues this sailing. All steaks were cooked properly, food at proper temp, and we weren’t hassled about our cheese plate being delivered to our room at 10pm in LeBistro like we were on the Getaway. It was also interesting that on the Getaway, they short you a scallop on the appetizer at LeBistro (received only 2) but this cruise it was back to the usual 3. At the time, I thought this was going to be standard going forward to cut costs, but guess only on the Getaway do they wish to short you and cut corners. Drinks were also not watered down on Dawn as they were on Getaway. What can I say, we just really hated the Getaway, my full review is on here for those who care to read it. Read more