Tampa is pretty much our "local port", as I live just 40 miles East of the port. I sail a lot on whatever ships are sailing out of Tampa. I've always had a GREAT time aboard "Paradise", but this particular cruise left just a bit to be desired. Food and service, including cabin service was very good, as usual. Ship was clean, and the crew was efficient, and smiling. My main complaint was with the entertainment. Since I've sailed so much on these itineraries, I rarely leave the ship, so the on board entertainment is VERY critical for me. I found the shows to be lacking, and LOUD! All of the music aboard, with the exception of the string trio, was WAY TOO LOUD. Even the announcements were louder than usual, and annoying to the point of covering your ears to keep from having a headache from listening to them. Comics were just O.K., and nothing really special. CD, "Calvyn", was WAY too much into himself, and said "YES" every third word. The karaoke was also too LOUD, but was turned down just a bit when I complained,,,,,only to be turned back up ten minutes later. Song selection at karaoke was better than I've seen it since the equipment was "upgraded", but still sadly lacking.

Overall, the cruise was very good, and relaxing. Weather was perfect.