ARRIVAL: Check-in was very rapid and orderly. From the time we turned our luggage over to the porter until we were on-board and in the cabin, was less than 30 minutes. The staff was strategically placed to assist people who were directionally challenged. Additionally, on each deck, at the elevators, were ship layouts. If you needed to find forward, just follow the fish on the carpets. They knew where they were going. Our luggage arrived within three hours. We had brought two bottles of wine on-board in a well marked box. We were called to deck 12 to claim it and authorize the corkage fee of $15 per bottle. NCL does have a wonderful wine list but, as this was my wifes birthday we had a special wine we wanted.
STATEROOMS: The stateroom we had was a mini-suite on Deck 11 mid-ships. The suite was clean and well appointed and very comfortable, but with all the action on the ship, it didnt see much use. A lot of closet space and, wow, a full bathtub. Internet network connection right at the desk. Only negative was no coffee pot. They did have a water heater for instant coffee or tea ad a mini-bar/refrigerator. Costs for the items were the same as at the bars. The balcony was large and allowed for many relaxing moments. Robes were available in the room also. Closet space and drawers were plentiful and a secure safe was available. There is one 120V, U.S. type outlet available in the room and one in the bathroom.
SHIP OVERALL: The ship is beautiful. It is about a year old but you would be hard-pressed to see any wear. We have heard the color selection was horrible and loud. No, while it isnt museum restful, it is quite beautiful and colorful. The colors do not clash and they do run together. Enough said on that note. The bars are adjacent to one another on decks 6 and 7. There are plenty of open areas for seating and the acoustics keep the conversations down to a murmur. One nice feature is the ability to order scotch while sitting at the martini bar and the server will get it from the adjacent bar. The Spinnaker Lounge is very comfortable. The galleria is massive also. The largest one I have seen to date. The photo shop is well positioned and not crowded when people are searching for their pictures. The art gallery is on the port side of the ship and also well positioned for casual viewing. To the heart of the ship, the Crystal Atrium. It is beautiful. Evenings find a band as well as quiet conversation. The only minor issue we had was the taking of photographs on both sides of the Atrium at the same time. It did cause a bottleneck. The Stardust theatre is large, well appointed and has very good acoustics. There is plenty of room around the pool and two decks above for lounging also. The library is very nice, quiet and comfortable. The Fitness center is very well equipped and modern. The Spa is quite good and my wife raved about the treatment.