We are a couple in our early/mid 40s and this was our 4th NCL cruise, first on the Pearl.

Embarkation -- arrived at the port around 11:00. Very efficient and well organized process. We waited in the holding area about 15 or 20 minutes and were on board by about 11:30. Room -- balcony room on level 9. May seen a bit tight at first but there is plenty of storage space and I am NOT a light packer. Bed was very comfortable and I even liked the pillows. Balcony was roomy enough for the two of us and we enjoyed spending time there. Even got to see some dolphins following the ship and several sea turtles. Bathroom was very clean. Shower stall is great with a sliding door as opposed to a curtain. Room has two 110V outlets and we found this to be fine. There is a coffee maker and hair dryer in the room as well.

Ship -- a really special ship this is. I wasn't sure I'd like the color scheme or the "funky" furniture in the public areas but it actually works well and, in my opinion, was not at all offensive. I could live w/o the big screen in the main atrium area (well, not exactly and atrium more like a lobby) but there are so many great things about this ship, this is minor. Liked that there are two pools - one for adults and one for kids. Liked Bliss lounge and the bowling alley. Again, I thought I would find Bliss a bit over the top and upon first glance it can be, but it grows on you and the bowling was very popular and a great addition to a cruise ship. Ship itself is kept perfectly clean, even the public bathrooms were very clean. Fun to go to the bridge viewing area on deck 11. Padded lounge chairs on the promenade deck are very nice touch and they were always in use. Elevators on this ship are super fast -- an odd thing to notice, I know, but we were always amazed by this. Read more