We are a family of four - husband/wife, plus two boys (4 and 18 months) - and this was our first time cruising. Overall, Paradise is a clean and handsome ship; obviously not a luxury cruiser, but certainly a terrific value, especially considering the price we paid ($1200 for 4 people total, 4 nights, with a $100 onboard credit). That's $68.75 per person per day, factoring in the credit. The major upsides are what we expected - contained and comfortable environment, robust kids' program for our outgoing 4 year old, value for all inclusive food, and we were pleasantly surprised by the quality and comfort of the stateroom. Spa also very nice. Major downsides were the lack of opportunities to procure sitting for our 18 month old, not much outside of camp for small kids to do on board, and the schedule of events favored the evening party crowd, not the early rising family crowd. Read on for details about specific portions of the ship:

STATEROOM: Clean and comfortable ocean view room - beds were especially comfy, and the wall-bed made for better space during the day. Good design, about a 19" flat screen TV, although very few channels to pick from. Empress deck convenient for boarding, and is only 1 deck below dining. Bathroom was fine, but the lack of a tub made bathing the little ones difficult.

PUBLIC ROOMS: Very nice. Central atrium has a subdued, wood paneled look, with blown glass in a floral pattern ringing each deck. Faberge egg replicas dotted the landscape, which were nicely done. The bars, shopping areas, hallways, casino, Elation Dining room and such also nicely appointed. Elevators, however, very slow. The glass elevators are a nice touch, though. Read more