We sailed with a group of 10 ranging from age 3 to mid-60's with varying experience from first time to 9th cruise. Each person had a very different opinion of this trip. This was my third cruise and I enjoyed every second of it. Let me start by saying I had zero expectations. Even after reading several years of reviews (THANK YOU CRUISE CRITIC), I didn't have a level of fun that I expected. It seems like most negative reviews are when something doesn't meet their expectations. Several people in my group were guilty of this also. For example, Trujillo was a favorite stop for some and the least favorite for others.
First, get to the Port of Houston early. If you can get through customs early then you can eat lunch on the ship and start your vacation before most get on board. If you wait, then everything shuts down for the safety drill. Good news is that the safety drill itself only lasts about 5 minutes although it takes about 45 minutes to get everyone ready. It is mandatory and if you miss it then you must attend a make-up drill.
Second, be prepared for how small the rooms are. Get organized and THANK YOU to everyone that suggested the over-the-door organizers. The rooms do have great use of space with lots of storage, however this one tip was GREAT! We had instant access to all necessary items.
Clean, lots of storage but TINY. Our cabin did have a fold down bunk bed on one side. They will also bring in another bed so it can be wall-to-wall beds with a loft over one. When getting dressed, everyone had to be on the bed or in the bathroom, as there is only enough room for one person to stand up. We did have our stateroom steward remove the chair on the first day and clean out our mini-fridge so we could use it. Thanks again Jose Olandesca for a great job keeping our room spotless!