I'm motivated to write a brief review here to counterpoint some of the negative things that have been said. We have cruised with NCL before, cruised with them this time and will cruise with them again; why? Because we don't like being 'organized' and prefer to do our own thing with whom we choose (if any), when we choose to do it. If that's not what you enjoy then don't pick NCL, it's that simple!

The destinations are what they are so you make your own choices there, there was something for everyone; personally I love Willemstad, sea days and not having to engage my brain very much. Cruise company excursions are also a known quantity: somewhat diluted, overpriced and easy. Like trading in your car, if you want the best value for money - do your own thing. If you want easy - use the dealer.

Now if you have taken the time to look at comparable prices for comparable destinations, flights and food costs, you already know that that cruising is very cheap by comparison and that's the point, you get what you pay for... What you pay for here is above average 3 star accommodation and food. If you're expecting more, you'll be disappointed. If you WANT more then just budget an extra $20 a head per day for a great evening meal in a specialty restaurant. This will get you up to 4 stars (but not 5). Given the $$$$ amount you spent on the cruise, adding $200 or so for the specialty restaurants rather than complaining about food and being mad about it is a money well spent. The specialty restaurants are generally very good, try a few and go back to the ones you like best. Better still buy the Ultimate Dining Package $279 for 11 nights and try them ALL! Read more