we first sailed ncl in 1980, and have enjoyed this line for many years. however, we had not sailed ncl in the past 7 years,and did not know what to expect.(last ncl ship was dreamward to bermuda).lately we have taken holland america, princess and cunard qm2, so we set low expectations for the dreamward.embarkation at nyc was outstanding. we had carry on luggage, and checked it with an attendant. lunch buffet wastypical banquet type food, good and plentiful.our balcony cabin, while not spacious, was clean and comfortable. best shower we have ever had. toilet placement was placed on an angle, and anyone over 6'2 and overweight will have problems.we took no land tours and purchased a two day water taxi(bus) pass for 24.00 ea. a one way ticket is 4.00 ea way perperson, so the one to three day pass is a good idea.we loved the italian and french restaurants at 10 to 15 dollars per personthe steakhouse was 25.00 per person, and felt it was a bit overpriced.we ate breakfast and all other dinners in the venetian and found acqua too noisey and crowded.all in all we were very satisfied withe ncl and the norwegian dawn, and will take ncl again.desembarkation was smoothe, and freestyle cruising is a great alternative to formal.