Booked through our travel agent and did all the paperwork easily online, including reservations and waivers for activities. Stayed overnight before cruise in Hollywood and arrived to port via hotel shuttle about 1:30 when boarding was scheduled to begin. Many people had arrived as early as 11:00. Embarkation was rather easy and we went through the total process in probably 20 minutes. Given our Seapass cards that acted as credit card, room key and identification for everything.

We went straight to our room on Deck 10. Room 1402 is considered a "whale-tale" room at the back of the ship. We feel that it was the best room we have ever had on a cruise ship. Almost a suite, wider to fit the sofa bed with a king bed and huge balcony. Since I hate crowds, it was a perfect place for me to hide and enjoy the water and the sunsets/sunrises. We actually had room for two chaises, two chairs and a small table! Incredible! The room was immaculate and the bathroom actually felt like a normal size room with a decent shower. Our room attendant was wonderful. Debra was very pleasant and introduced herself right away and was always smiling and asking if everything was in order. We loved her "towel animals" she left for us - absolutely adorable and surprising. Our luggage didn't arrive until dinner time but since we opted for My Time Dining, it wasn't really a bother.

After the first day, we hardly ever saw our 13-year-old son. He participated in so many activities with the teen groups and then made numerous friends in his age group. He took the Flow Rider classes and the instructors were great. He loved the Flow Rider and did it every day after that. He also loved the rock climbing wall, ice skating, and well, all the teen activities and supervisors! Since this cruise was his choice, he couldn't have had a better time. He actually had wished it had been a full seven day cruise as he didn't want to leave his new friends. Read more