We were on the November 26th Eastern Cruise.

Embarkation was fine. The lines moved a decent pace, but there were too many lines. There was one to go through metal detectors and x-ray machines for bags which is a necessity these days. Then, rather than giving you your keys when you checking in, you had to check in in one line, and then get into another line to get the keys. Then you got into a 4th line to have your picture taken by security for debarkation/embarkation procedures during ports of call (normal stuff) and then a 5th one to have the photographer take a picture of you boarding the ship with cheesy backgrounds. There was no way to bypass the photographers...you just had to stand and wait for your turn to either have a picture taken or keep walking. They were very friendly and smiley while boarding so you at least felt welcome.

Unfortunately, that is where the smiles stopped. I found that the majority of the staff on board were rude and cranky. The odd staff member smiled and were helpful, but most couldn't be bothered to say hello and be friendly. Our Steward, head and assistant waiter and bar waitress were extremely friendly and saved the cruise lines their reputation. If it had not been for them, we probably would have had a miserable cruise. Read more