This the first time we cruised with NCL and freestyle dining. The experience was mostly positive with only a few exceptions. We were booked on a Nickleodian theme week cruise and there were over 700 children on the ship. We knew going in that it was that way but unfortunately many people we spoke to didn't and they were unhappy with the amount of children running wild through the buffet area and pool deck. For the most part the children were well supervised by their parents, as in every situation there were those exceptions who ruined it for the others.

The service was exceptional. Every staff member we came in contact with went out of their way to be pleasant. The food was good and the selections varied. We went to a specialty restuarant, Le Bistro, and it was outstanding. There was a $20.00 added on fee per person for the restaurant but it was so worth it. If you aren't fond of crowds and children, stay away from the Garden Buffet and go to the main dining room, Tsars.

We had a balcony stateroom and we loved it! This is the first time we had a balcony and it made the cruising experience so much better (for us) than an inside cabin. In the past we didn't want to spend much time in our cabin because it was so small. This time we had wine out on the balcony...very romantic!