NOTS was our first cruise in Oct. 2005. A hurricane had just gone through so Miami was not the best. Traffic lights were out and gas was hard to come by for our rental car. We rented a car from Dollar. Price was excellent and when returning the next day, Dollar took us to the port, no charge. They would have also picked us up after the cruise and taken us to the airport, no charge.

Due to Miami conditions and being eager to cruise, we arrived early to board the ship on Sat. Everything went smoothly and there were minimal waits. Be sure to fill out your Sail pass on line. This helps to expedite things.

We were amazed at all the art decor, and vastness of the ship. We loved the days at sea to explore. We watched a movie in the theater room, lunch in dining room since we had plenty of time on sea days. Pick up a waterproof container to hold sea passes and credit card. We shopped at the promenade shops. Remember that the shops put out specials every day. Also, some services at the spa are half price later in the week. We used internet service and set up account. We used this several times to check on family at home. We used the same computer so info was ready to pop up. We worked out in the gym each morning and would go to our room to clean up, then eat a nice breakfast in dining room (less crowded than Windjammer) to begin our day. The work out facilities are excellent, and we were able to try different equipment. View is excellent. Dining is good, not great. We used the dining room most days for breakfast. Most of the same choices are in the Windjammer. It was just quieter in the dining room. They only use one floor of the dining room for breakfast and lunch and you are seated as you come in. Some of the same wait staff work here at breakfast and lunch. This is also closer to the bottom of the ship on port days than the Windjammer. There is congestion in the stairways during port days and it helps to be on the third floor already! We also ate at Johnny Rockets one day. It was great and a good change. The service and food for dinner was good. We did not eat at Pordellios, but think that we will next time for a change. Read more