We just wanted to get away for a few days and the Cruise Critic email we got a few months ago offered a fare we couldn't pass up. Ship sailed from San Pedro pier and we flew in the day before and stayed at the Crowne Plaza there, just a few blocks away from pier. Their shuttle took us over about 10 and after the usual security check, and other assorted matters, we finally boarded about noon.

I'm 72 and so please pardon the "used to be's" as we've been cruising for about a dozen years. I know the economy is bad, so the ship had to cut fares to fill it up, which meant they have to invent new ways to get into your billfold after you're on board. My wife and many others remarked this was the most beautiful ship we've ever been on.

Service in restaurant was very good, although some costs have obviously been cut. No more basket of rolls on table; the ass't waiter brings a basket around, gives you one or two, then later comes back with more. No more sommlier nor bar water in restaurant. Your waiter takes drink orders. On most cruises, I would have a barmaid for our table that knew what I wanted, automatically would bring it to table; she would know my folio number so I wouldn't have to mess around with the card, etc. They had us at a table way back in corner. Two of our table mates signed up for the Cheffmakers class ($350 UGH!!) and they made them switch to later seating the rest of cruise, and then put them at a table with no companions. Food was so-so at best. About had to use a chain saw to cut my prime rib the first night. Lobster night is always a highlight, but it was small, so our waiter brought us seconds on that. The head waiter did come around every night to see if everything was OK. We get the impression that main dining room food is being downgraded to get folks to sign up for the extra cost specialty dining rooms. Read more