First time cruiser: My group included Myself, my fiancée, and our 3 children (7, 11, 17)
My family and I went on this cruise in a large family group that included 16 people. We planned the vacation for about a year in advance and the planning was well worth it. Overall, we had a fantastic vacation and my first cruise was much better than I excepted. I am a Navy Submarine Veteran, so the thought of being confined to a ship as opposed to an all-inclusive resort was not ideal. However, I will admit that I was wrong and I would enjoy cruising again.
To start, we sailed out of New Orleans. We planned a weekend there prior to departure and had a great time enjoying the city. I could not have picked a better departure city as the atmosphere and activities got us ready for a fun time aboard the Dawn. However, the fish bowl the night before had me swaying more than the boat did the next day.
The cabin was small, but big enough for the four of us in there. The steward was great and the cabin was bigger and better than I expected.
New Orleans is fun no matter why you are there.
We visited the shops and restaurants. While we spent more than anticipated, it was a great time for everyone.
Gumbalimba Animal Preserve is the best way to interact with monkeys! We loved this port!
Beach day!! Swim up bar, what else is there to say!