After abundant research, I was a little concerned about the prior negative reviews. We are so glad we disregarded these and went on this cruise! People who complain about so many little things need a wake up call! What a beautiful ship - absolutely exciting, well kept, clean... The staff was PHENOMENAL to us in all regards at ALL times. Please be sure to treat them with a lot of respect - they work so hard and for very little, always with a smile. Junior was our stateroom attendant and was wonderful! In the Northern Lights 'your time dining' we had Augusto who was great and a lot of fun!!! It was amazing how well staff remembered your name and addressed you by it all the time. I have tremendous respect for the people working on the ship.
If you come into IAH airport, we had a private van transfer us out to the ship. LJ Cormier from Texas Cruise Ship Shuttle was UNBELIEVABLE and worth the money. For about the same as all others charge, he will pick you up at your hotel, take you to Galveston and give you a tour around. He was EARLY and waiting both pick up times, told us an abundant amount of information about Galveston, Houston, etc... and was so very entertaining and pleasant. He clearly loves his job. He is a wonderful man and we highly recommend him!!!!!!!
Our stateroom was a balcony room on the 9th floor (VISTA) It was very accessible to the Lido Deck. We had a great view from the balcony and spent relaxing times out with a drink there. The odd time at night (around 4 am) we may hear the movement of deck chairs, etc. being moved for cleaning. Doesn't wake you up but did hear it twice. No big deal. Better than loud or drunk people stomping around.
9372 Balcony Stateroom 8E
great balcony view on starboard side. great location to get to Lido Deck. Close to elevators and stairs but not too close. Midship. Lots of space for our items. The odd time heard chairs being moved in night from Lido Deck. Loved it!