We just got back from our Epic cruise in the Western Caribbean. Before we left, I checked out all the reviews and have some insights on the negative comments posted.

First, we are not new to cruising. It is our favorite vacation. We have always cruised small to medium ships and thought we would try a larger vessel. I'm mentioning this to let you all know we do have basis for comparison.

Embarkation. This had me a little worried, 4,000+ people seemed a daunting task, but NCL has it down to an art. We arrived a little before 11:00 am having taken a cab from our hotel (near the airport). The cab ride was $20 for 4 of us. The porters we right on the spot and smoothly took all our luggage. We helped our friends up the stairs to their area, then went onto gate C. We waited no more than 10 minutes to be checked in. We sat in the lounge for about 1/2 hour. Very comfortable, plenty of seating, water and orange juice provided. Had a very nice chat with our neighbors and were called on board in the order we arrived. We were on board a little before noon. Very smooth entry onto the ship. Our stateroom was ready by 1:00. Read more