Our trip was flawless from beginning to end. I highly recommend this cruise to those who are on a budget who don't want to sacrifice the special treatment and beautiful accommodations one might expect with a higher priced trip. There were many families on board, especially those with small children who seemed to have a wonderful time with the counselors who entertained them all day giving moms and dads a chance to enjoy themselves. I traveled with my daughter (turning 16) as a Sweet 16 gift, joined by many friends and neighbors who were part of a neighborhood reunion. I read many negative reviews about this ship before leaving and I must stress that after sailing, the cruise is what you make it. I didn't experience any of the negative things I had read about, and was pleasantly surprised at how much of an opposite experience we had as well. If you let every little thing bother you then you won't have a good time no matter what they try to do for you or where you travel. I'm sure there are those unfortunate tales of woe that some would have, but I thought the ship and crew were outstanding and very friendly and willing to make our vacation a memorable and enjoyable one.

TIPS: Book reservations for restaurants early in the day. Get the Teen Passport and a soda card (teen passport allows for 20 sodas OR virgin tropical smoothies which are more fun!!) Read your Freestyle daily newsletter in order to keep track of all activities for the day or you'll miss some very cool stuff! The pool gets crowded early; eat early and get your chairs early. If you can't deal with the crowds, the kid's Buccaneer pool on deck 10 aft is great for sunbathing and alot less crowded. Go for the extra money and get a balcony cabin. There is nothing like sailing in the tropical sunset outside on your balcony or sipping your morning coffee out in the glorious sunrise of the islands. It's roomy, beds are great and soooo worth the extra money!!

EMBARKATION: As native New Yorkers, we didn't need to travel very far to the pier. We arrived early (at my insistence thanks to reading these reviews!) and breezed through the short line to register. They served beverages and snacks and the NCL reps were very friendly and helpful with any directions and questions we had. We waited about an hour before boarding and luckily the passengers who registered early (like we did) went right on board. They give you your room key at that point and you may explore the ship, eat lunch, etc... until your luggage arrives at your cabin door (anytime between 2-7pm). Great bon voyage barbeque once we set sail to kick things off and it was awesome hearing "I'm Proud to be an American" blasting as we sailed passed Lady Liberty. Read more