Embarkation: Drove to port (about an hour drive from home) and arrived about Noon. No problems getting there except we did go around a couple of times before we saw the entrance to the actual parking section. Husband was real frustrated by the time we found it. Hubby and I wanted to cruise but didn't want to have to fly so this was still perfect. Don't let the long line of people being dropped off at the terminal scare you-couldn't even tell if they were people getting off the ship or waiting to get on but they all just seemed to be standing around at the porter station. We found a porter right away who took our bags and we were off to the check in counter. Check in went quickly. We found our line and didn't really have to wait. Check in gal wasn't the most pleasant but who cares, we were starting our vacation.

On the ship: We managed to get around the photographer at the end of the gangway (managed to steer clear of ALL photog's the entire trip) and walked right in. The ship was very clean and the artwork was amazing. We made our way to the Schooner bar until it was time to get into our cabin. Barrington (Jamaica) in the Schooner bar was the best as were the drinks. We quickly appointed him our bartender of the week and every time he saw us he greeted us with a smile and a drink. Lava Flows are my favorite.

Cabin: We were able to get in our room right at 1p.m. and having a D2 was nice. The room was one of the largest we've had (compared to other sailings). The couch was large (even for my 6ft3 hubby to take a nap). The balcony was roomy and we had two chairs and a small table so it was just perfect. We utilized the balcony most when pulling into port. There is lots of cabinet space in the vanity with 3 small drawers on either side of the chair. We had plenty of lighting in our cabin and no problems with plugs-as I hear other ships have this problem. There is a large cabinet space above the safe which is above the TV. and the closet was nice with plenty of hangers. Next time I'll have our cabin steward remove the hangers we don't use as they swayed with the boat and made a clanging noise in the middle of the night. Speaking of middle of the night-if you need to go to the bathroom I'd suggest a flashlight (or torch-as our Australian friends put it) or even a night light. Its pitch black at night and finding the bathroom is quite the chore. Read more