This is my 3rd cruise, the first was Crown Princess 7-day southern Caribbean in 2007, the second was Norwegian Sky 4 nights in October 2008. My boyfriend has cruised a lot more than me on several cruise lines to all different destinations around the world. He agrees with my assessment of this vacation. We are both 38 and live outside New York City.

Miami: we flew to Miami the day before (just to be safe) and stayed at the Holiday Inn Port of Miami. This is very convenient because it's close the the cruise terminal, and it's across the street from Bayside Marketplace with lots of shopping, eating, and tours. If you have no car, as we didn't, at least there is something to do. Hotel was clean and pleasant, and very full.

Embarkation: We took a taxi ($10, less than 10 minutes) to the cruise terminal around 11:30. Check in was a breeze, everyone very friendly and efficient. We were on board the ship by about 12:15. They used to greet you with champagne but do not anymore. At first we were disappointed but we later realized they have invested the money in making many improvements throughout the ship. There are many tables set up as you enter the ship with information about the spa, the wine program, etc, which is convenient if you want to learn about these things. (They do not harass you or hawk anything.) We took time to re-familiarize ourselves with the ship layout, then had lunch in Crossings, the main dining room. It was lovely, just as I remembered. Elegant decor, great service and great food. I had a braised lamb shank and my BF had goat cheese ravioli in a light tomato sauce. Appetizers were also very good. Our rooms were ready at 1:00 (as promised). Read more