This is my 5th NCL cruise and my 4th time on the Dawn (3 other times were prior to the refurb) and I have to say that in almost every area NCL exceeded my expectations.

The embarkation in Miami was fast and we were onboard in less that 15 minutes even though we went at 12:00PM. Cabins were not ready yet, which was fine, so they directed us to the buffet and pool where we got to enjoy the Miami sunshine for about 30 minutes before we could head down to check out our cabin and put away our luggage. Our luggage came within 2 hours and we were unpacked before sailing.

The refurb helped clean up a few ragged carpets and for the most part helped the ship. The only thing that they changed which I didn't think was for the better was moving the Blue Lagoon (diner style) restaurant to a more formal space. It was odd to eat that kind of food in a formal setting but the food was good none the less. Read more