First time cruise for a family of six, kids range from 12 to 19. Fantastic experience! Can't say enough about how much everyone loved it--they're already saying they want to do it again next year.
I read all of the mixed reviews on this site leading up to our sail date, and have to admit that I felt a little leery. Crowded pools & ropes course, nickle & diming, smoke from the casino, etc. Funny thing is that while much of it was true, it didn't even remotely detract from our experience. The only negative in the kids eyes, ironically, were the excursions, which were too much logistics & waiting. They loved every moment they were on the ship.
Yes the pool is crowded on cruising days, but you can still find a seat on the level above and come down for a swim--since the depth of the adult pool is 6'8" the entire length, there is rarely anyone in the center of the pool. And on Honduras, we came back right after our snorkeling excursion, and had an awesome time on the slides and the pool--no problem with crowds.