Check-in at 2pm went smooth, all our forms were pre-filled online. The terminal was spacious, so there was a bit of walking involved, but the lines were not overly long and cookies and lemonade were available to ease the wait. This was a preview of things to come, as this was the main drink available throughout the cruise.

After a short wait at the busy elevators, we were at our cabins by 3pm and the luggage started to arrive. Most of it almost immediately, and the last one later on that evening. We headed to the Windjammer for a buffet snack before venturing onto the deck for a great view of Miami during our departure. Jade is basically the first part of the buffet, which continues as Windjammer just ahead and has slightly different choices, in somewhat oriental style. It offers sushi after 6:30 pm, but mainly California rolls, the only fish available is salmon and that is in low supply.

The Windjammer is perfectly positioned on deck 11 at the back of the ship, offering a beautiful view. The buffet has many great choices, from hot dogs to breaded fish and pasta. After a week the selection starts to feel the same, though, as it is mainly the sauces that change. The omni present ribs were a real treat. The drinks available without additional charge were water, lemonade, fruit punch iced tea and, of course, coffee and tea. Orange juice was available at breakfast. This made the pop card redundant, especially at over $40 per person. Another thing that makes the Windjammer an ideal place to eat is its location on the same deck and adjacent to the pool. Read more