We had been on the Independence two years before going up the Maine coast. We enjoyed it so much that we signed up for the Hudson River cruise (and also have another planned for 2015 down the Mississippi).

Before our trip up the Hudson we stayed at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square and saw two Broadway shows. On Sunday morning a short taxi ride took us to the American Cruise Line ship, the Independence. I cannot say enough about the cruise. Our room was larger than on most large cruise ships, the room service was always great.

The food was excellent (on both cruises). Because the ship is staffed with young people who multi-task, you have them serving your breakfast bright and early (or later if you want), and then you see them in the halls cleaning rooms and halls! They are ALWAYS pleasant and fun to get to know. And the do work very hard. Read more