This was only our second cruise, but it was so different from our first, both in the cruiseline and the ports. Our first one was in the Mediterranean and this one was in the Caribbean (western) - our first time to the Caribbean.

The NCL freestyle cruising suits us more so than RCI's traditional cruising. Also the variety of eating venues on the ship was awesome: 4 which were included in the cruise fare, as well as room service, and another 6 speciality restaurants ranging from $10-$25 cover charges per person. We did try one of these, Teppanyaki, at $25 pp, and it was worth it. We were seated around a large table with other guests (a maximum of 12) and we were entertained by 2 very capable chefs as they prepared our food in front of us, while juggling knives and salt and pepper shakers and spinning eggs and making jokes. It was so much more than food, which, by the way, was very good. The dress code is "freestyle", which means if you want to dress up, go ahead, but if you choose to keep casual, that's ok too.

The entertainment in the Stardust Theatre was exceptional. We saw 3 shows: "Shout, The Mod Musical', "Angels" and the finale "Elements". We were happy with our balcony room, except we found the bed to be quite hard - the only downside to an otherwise perfect vacation. Read more