We arrived in NJ the day before the blizzard. Reservations were made through Stay123 at the Crowne Plaza in Elizabeth. It is a lovely property. Service was excellent. Our rate included parkiing for the cruise. I really don't understand the reviews I've seen on this hotel. Recommend it to anyone. We arranged transportation through Abdoul at Independent Driver. He was fantastic. Got us safely to the pier under the worst of driving conditions.

Embarkation was no picnic. The most disorganized mess we've ever experienced -- compounded by the passengers who would not sit down (despite repeated announcements to do so). They were determined to stand at the front and down the isles, making it impossible to move when a boarding number was called. We were seated in the terminal from 11:30 to 2:00. Made it to the Cafe Promenade for lunch just before it closed at 2:30/3:00.

Now, there is no getting around the fact that this was a difficult cruise. Both for the passengers and for the Captain/Crew. Read more