I will bullet point the important factors here, but first let me tell you who we are so you have a point of reference. Highly educated, upper middle class married couple in our late 30's. Well traveled but only our 4th cruise; high expectations but overall very easy going and not pretentious. In other words, we don't sweat the small stuff and we make the best of things that go wrong. We're pretty easy to please in general. We traveled with another couple who were cruising for the first time.

*Embarkation: Crowded of course but well managed. The line moved steadily considering 3200 people were boarding. Our room was ready as soon as we got on which was nice. Having to lug your bags around for the first hour or 2 that you're on board is a real drag.

*The ship: Stunning. I felt like I was in an elaborate Vegas hotel. The Piazza reminded me of the Venetian or Bellagio. Great layout. The ship was very clean and beautiful. We spent both sea days at The Sanctuary which was a lovely and worthwhile retreat from the crowds on sea days. Very seaworthy and pretty stable despite some rough waters. Read more