We sailed from Bayonne on 8/12/12 which was a great port to leave from as we are from NJ, so the ease of parking, security, embarkation was a breeze. We arrived at 11:30 am, which allowed us ample time to tour the ship before it got crowded and to sit by the pool and get some drinks. If you like to imbibe, I recommend the Premium Drink Package - well worth its price ($391). With what my husband drank over the course of the week, they lost money on him! Drinks are not out of control expensive either. Martini Bar (large glass) is $10 and $6 for smaller glasses. Beer selection at Micheal's Bar is exceptional - Belgian's etc. although the entertainment there is a downer. Usually a guitar player and apparently your frowned upon if you'd like to actually have a conversation within the bar. The Martini Bar is quite fun! Boom Boom puts on a great show (he's a bit arrogant though, and doesn't make the best drinks - the other bartender is better). Rendez Vous is the most ridiculous lounge on the ship. Awful singers, although Karaoke night was funny, as well as Celebrity Idol. The comedian, Troy, was hilarious! The piano player, Craig Dahn, was absolutely unbearable to listen to. He dressed like Liberace but did not have the talent. We walked out after the 2nd song. The production team is very talented and the shows were ok.

Our teens said the Teen Lounge was boring with nothing to do. Xbox was only Kinect which is beat if you're a gamer. Have to question the "mixers" they have for 18 - 30 y/o...that age range is a bit odd. Not So Newlywed game was very funny and the cruise director, Jason, is quite good. Thalassotherapy pool (adults only) is very relaxing and their food bar offers sushi and healthier options than the buffet. And it's close to the pools. The outdoor pool is ridiculously small. It says no kids on the sign, but there is no kids only pool so the older guests were angry that kids were in the pool, but they had no place to go. Be prepared to get bruised in the pool when it's crowded.

Food was excellent, and the menu was quite diverse - filet mignon, prime rib, lamb chops, veal shank, lovely cold strawberry soup, desserts (with the exception of the baked Alaska - blech) were good. Definitely order the chocolate souffle. Read more