I travelled with my two sons, ages 14 & 11. I have been on a few other cruises, this is their 2nd cruise. We live in Ottawa, Ontario
We had a great time!
It was terrific leaving from NYC, I would definitely take another cruise out of NYC. I drove us down the day before and we stayed at the Sheraton on the Hudson. We left the hotel at 10:35 or so and got the ship by 10:45. Thank goodness I know my way around a bit in midtown! We had hoped to board a bit early, but they do not allow non US citizens to check in early. A tip: get a seat right near the front so when they open the desks for non US you can get checked in right away. They will take your passport til the end of the cruise (only non US). Last passengers were off the ship by 11:30 or so, so no one could really get on til about noon.