My first impression while waiting to embark, was there are soooo many children, this is going to be a total nightmare! Embarkation went fairly quickly, and we found Baltimore to be an easier port than bayonne, and new york. We were in our cabbin by 230pm. Our balcony room was spotless, and had a broken thermostat (which did not affect us)and a broken light, but was otherwise spacious and beautiful.

This ship does not have all of the glitter and jazz, of some of the bigger and newer ships. If you are looking for the rock wall, wave pool, and ice skating, or upscale cruising, this is not for you. This cruise seemed to be ideal for families with the exception of the nude decor and gigantic nude anatomically correct male statue in which my 7 year old dared me to put a bikini bottom on all week long. Despite my initial thoughts of way too many children, the decks and pools never seemed crowded, and we were always able to find chairs, which seems to be a problem on bigger ships. the families on this ship were decent, and appeared to monitor and take care of most of their children. The pools and hot tubs had ample space. However, if you would prefer not to be splashed, or share a tub with a small child, again this is not the ship for you. The shows were good, however we've seen much better. We didn't have trouble finding seating, unless we showed up late.

The service on this ship was EXCEPTIONAL, some of the best we've ever encountered in the cruising industry. Every staff member went out of his way, to assist in every way. We encountered only happy faces, and a warm greeting from all employees. They accomodated the children in every way, and were happy to open doors, or carry trays to tables for me. Many staff members, took the time to ask about the 1 and 7 year old, and memorize their names. Read more