Our family was celebrating our parent's 50th anniversary and the task of finding the right cruise was pretty much up to me. We travelled as a couple in their 70's, two couples in their 40's, single mom in her 40's, young adult of 23, and 5 children ranging from 9 through 15. I needed a boat that wasn't too big as my parents are super mobile, something with enough activities to keep everyone busy (the 5 port stops on the 7 day cruise did that) and excellent food as dinnertime was to be our gathering time.

The ship was nicely decorated in some common areas for Christmas. Santa arrived on Dec. 25th with a present (Celebrity beach towel), for all of the kids. Rooms were fine and larger than some previous cruises (carnival and 2 Norwegian). The bathrooms could use a bit of attention as there was a cracked tile and the grout on the floor appeared dirty, but that is my only complaint.

Service on this cruise was top notch and everyone was super friendly learning everyone's names. Of my 4 cruises, the service was above and beyond. The real hightlight was the dinner service in the main dining room. No one in the whole week complained about their meal and many of the meals were the best I've had in my life (and I like to eat out at nice restaurants). The kids were seated at a table next to the adults by our choice and it worked out perfectly. They loved dinner service and when we were late one day and suggested going to the buffet, they all complained and wanted their sit down meal - not typical of kids! Read more