Not sure where all the bad reviews have been coming from regarding the Dawn. First let me say we were suite passengers so received several VIP perks such as priority boarding, breakfast and lunch in Cagney, etc. Embarkation was a breeze. We were on the ship and in our rooms within 30 minutes after arriving at the port.

Day 1: We did not leave the port until 7:30. There was a health inspection in the morning and a problem with the tug boat/barge when they arrived to push us off. We missed our 4:30 deadline for departure and had to wait for incoming commercial traffic as there is only room for one ship leaving Tampa. As a result the sail away party was apparently cancelled. It was great last year on the Star with all the ship's dancers taking part on the pool deck. Our room was a bit smaller than expected although the balcony and bathtub were great. Opening night production was a bit of a disappointment. Majority rules game show was very funny.

Day 2: At Sea. Played team trivia which was fun. Band on the Run was pretty good. Dancers were a bit risqué for my 12 year old daughter. I was not wowed by the musical entertainment from the singers or dancers all week. Production values and singing ability were a level below what I am used to but they were all decent. Assistant cruise director Luz performed an amazing Tina Turner tribute show but it should have been performed in the Stardust theatre vs. the Spinnaker lounge. She was a better singer than anyone in the main troupe. Read more