Boarded the Epic Saturday in Fort Lauderdale at about 12:30 pm; 45 minutes later (not bad for a 4,100 passenger ship)we entered through the casino (Deck 6) and found our way one floor down to Taste for lunch. Cabin ready at 2pm. Though a bit unorthodox, we got used to the cabin layout quickly. Having the sink in the cabin area actually improved the closet space which was next to the bathroom; shower on the other side next to the sink (understand that this layout will not be used on new ships - too many complaints). Muster drill again went quickly considering size of the ship. Dinner in Sheehan's (Deck 6), a 24 hour restaurant, comfort food, with bowling lanes. Do not miss the brownie with ice cream; in fact, make time to have more than one during your trip. Howl at the Moon (dueling piano's) are a favorite of ours, and was just as enjoyable on the seas as on land; arrive early and stay late. Blue Man Group was wild, but entertaining. Good idea to book shows in advance. Seats in the showroom were all good and comfortable. Day 2 was SuperBowl Sunday. Buffet very well layed out and found everything for a hearty breakfast. Again, because of the size of the ship, we decided to find Spice H20, adults only (Deck 15 & 16) early and get our seats for football madness. Pool, hot tubs, food and drink, tables with umbrellas and lounge chairs are available. Huge screen and full house for the game; great fun. Monday - sea day - pool area is right next to stage area and Great Outdoors restaurant. Area gets very, very crowded - get there early. Had a wonderful dinner in Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian - style) - salad bar and bread fill you up, but save room for the wonderful meats served by very professional wait staff. Well worth the extra fee of $20.00 pp.
Tuesday - St. Maartin - not as quaint as I remember, but offers a nice beach, port shopping and restaurants. Dinner in Manhattan Room - nice music while eating; food was good. Fat Cats Lounge - Charlie Love and the Silky Smooth Band are great. Other musicians will jam with the band after their venue. Very entertaining.
Wednesday - St. Thomas - beach day, Sapphire Beach; take a cab ($10.pp), beautiful water and beach (next to resort). Look for the cute ducks and iguanas.
Quiet area, not far from elevators and just a few floors down from Garden Buffet area, and up from Epic Theatre, Bliss Lounge.