Embarkation: We arrived at the Seattle airport and were met by a lady who directed us to take our luggage to the far end of the baggage terminal, then head to the complete opposite end to board our bus to the ship. Turns out we could have taken our luggage to the end where the bus was - so that was kind of a bummer but we weren't going to let a little misinformation ruin our trip! Once we boarded the bus, we waited a bit for more people to board and were finally on our way. Quick line at the port and we were on the ship in less than 30 minutes! Very smooth embarkation... FYI they take your picture immediately so have your makeup on ladies! After traveling early in the morning we did NOT want our picture taken but they made us wait in the line anyway. This is the first of hundreds of photos you will be in during the next 7 days!

Cabin: We were in A608, a category BB balcony. We had originally booked an inside and at the last minute, decided to call and see about paying for an upgrade to a guaranteed category BE balcony. This worked out GREAT for us - - because since the prices often drop as you get closer to your sailing date, you can take advantage of the lower prices. We paid at least $400/person less than if we had originally booked a BE - - and since we then booked it as a guarantee, we got a visit from the upgrade fairy and ended up in a BB. The cabin was nicely decorated, with plenty of room for all of our clothes, books, etc., with room to spare. All four of our suitcases were easily stored under the bed. I used one suitcase as the "prize" suitcase and filled it with all the things we were bringing back to people at home - - this made the room stay more organized and clean, without a ton of different souvenir bags laying around. The bed was definitely not new and was very lumpy and uncomfortable but we immediately called our room steward and ordered an egg crate mattress which made all the difference in the world! The bathroom was fine and shower was bigger than I expected. Our room steward, Chai, was excellent. He was always right there if we needed anything, and was very prompt about servicing our room whenever we left for dinner or activities. He was very friendly, had a great sense of humor, and we couldn't have asked for a better room steward. TIP: Pick up little gifts and leave them for your room steward every night when you leave for dinner - - just as a little thank you for taking care of you!

Food: Horizon Buffet: Our first impression of the food on the ship (unfortunately) was the Horizon Buffet. Not good. We did go back there a few times just because it was convenient for the times we ate sometimes, and my hubby had a few things that he liked. The best thing I found was the sandwich making stuff - the bread was very fresh and soft and the cheese and meats available were plentiful and yummy. Other than that, to me the food was okay. Regency Dining Room: We did traditional dining and were in the second seating (8pm). This was by hubby's first cruise that offered traditional dining and I wanted him to see what it was like - he loved it! Once he ordered ginger ale the first night, it was there waiting for him every night after that. Our wait staff was awesome - very friendly and we looked forward to seeing them every night (Denisa from Romania and Steve from India). The food was always excellent - a huge variety to choose from and always perfectly prepared. We ate way too much on some nights - never ending king crab legs! Read more