I am a cruise junkie! Have sailed with Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and even MSC so I am very familiar with what to expect from each line. My family who cruise with me are also cruise junkies and I talked with them to decide what to write (I depend on reviews so I think it is fair for me to return the favor). On this cruise my hubby had to work but for the family that could go, here are ages: myself early 40s, daughter 16, son 13, parents in mid 60s, and 2 nephews ages 12 and 15. We all had the fortune of balconies on 3 different levels that I will discuss later. Still interested? Then let me begin...

Embarkation - I have sailed from Jacksonville, Ft Lauderdale, and Miami but Port Canaveral is my FAV!!!! Majority of staff are retired folks who are very helpful and friendly. And since I did all of my paperwork on-line before boarding, it was a BREEZE to get my ship card. So fast and efficient! We were on the ship before noon and ready to eat!

Dining - I have a son with Asberger's Syndrome (high function autism) so it is a MUST that I do research before vacations. When I am able to keep our surroundings pleasant for him, we all are able to enjoy time together. I read reviews and looked at videos of the Sunshine to find out tips and tricks that would maximize vacation fun. The BEST tip I can give you is the Havana Bar seating in the back of the ship for when you eat from the buffet (lido). Most people want to sit right beside all of the food or didn't have a clue there was a beautiful seating area just one little hallway behind the buffet with a beautiful view! Our FAMILY OF 7 had no problem finding 2 tables to sit by each other for meals. And I think the food is quite good. Some choices are not to my liking, but so many are and I enjoy it! My whole family LOVES Guys Burgers and the Burrito Bar so I have no idea why others complain. My daughter ate 3 of her lunches at Guy's and my son had the server tuned into his fav sandwich of no tomatoes or pickles but double donkey sauce, lol! Read more