I did a lot of research on cruise lines, ports, excursions, reviews (including this site) articles/ads in my travel magazines. My mid 20's daughter and I wanted to have a simple and fairly short cruise for the first time to get familiar with experience. Our 1st goal was to leave out of Florida and not have Mexico anywhere in our plans due to ongoing violence. We have traveled frequently to include Costa Rica and Europe and South America so we're not skittish but cautious. I booked in October timeframe directly through NCL and everything went smoothly. The airfare I booked separate using frequent flyer miles to Miami. I also didn't feel the extra expense for a balcony room was worth it since weren't planning on being in room much. So we booked the lowest oceanview available which was on 5th deck forward. It at least had a porthole and we were pleasantly surprised to see how big the porthole is that we both could of fit through it. I also felt it was wise to purchase travel insurance due to New England's unpredictable weather and transfers through NCL.

A rep. met us shortly after our plane landed at 12:30 at the baggage claim. We then took a short ride in a van to port. There we went to register and get our photo ID which was also tied to a credit card to charge any drinks, dining or extra items. The check-in process went smoothly and took about 30 minutes. Once we able to board the ship, we went straight to dining room on 11th deck that was serving lunch.

We were very pleased with our room. The closet had plenty of hangers and there were also drawers under the safe. We used the couch for 3rd person for our luggage and the twin beds with reading lamps and some shelves worked out fine for us. The bathroom was small yes but still workable with shelving on both sides for our personal items. Read more