We got a group of family and some neighbors to plan this cruise well in advance, almost a year ago. My daughter and her guy were first timers, others all have cruised at least once before, and it was our 7th, all with RCI. We all met a day early, as is always necessary when coming from western states to Florida. You just can't make it there in one day and get to the ship in time. Plus you can always find something fun to do in Florida. Stayed at the Fairfield Inn in Dania Beach. Great place, very clean and close to airport and cruise port.

EMBARKATION: Got to the pier around 12:15 via a shuttle arranged right in the hotel. Had read where this ship had one of the easiest embarkation ratings, and it did only take less than 30 minutes, no problems. Went right aboard.

CABINS: We all booked balcony suites, three right together and were able to open the connecting partitions on the balconies to make one big one. Very nice. We not able to do that in some past cruises. Cabins were on Deck 8, port side, slightly aft. No problem with noise. Size about the same as other inside, outside, balcony cabins on other RCI ships. Every other cabin has bed near balcony. The ones that don't are much harder to get around and get dressed. Room attendants were good, as usual, nothing special. One couple had the cabin next to us and the A/C wasn't working well. Complained, and people came to look, then found balcony door wouldn't lock, and other "reasons". This went on the whole trip, some A/C but still not real comfortable. After several complaints they were given a voucher, or will be sent one, for 20% of what they paid on a future cruise, good for 1 year. I thought that wasn't right. I think a letter will be written soon. Read more