The embarkation was good. We were greeted by our complimentary champagne and samples from the specialty restaurants. There were a few things that I did not like. We were told that we would be escorted to our room. That didn't happen; and we were one of the first people on this ship, boarding at noon. As a matter of fact, when we found our room, it wasn't even ready yet. We were told that it wouldn't be ready until 2. If it weren't for cruising before, we would've been totally lost! When we got to the room, there was no map of the ship. On Carnival, we were escorted AND there was a map provided. I also didn't like the way the casino was set up. The only way you could "cash out" is if you won $25 on their card. Otherwise, you have to use it as credit on your next cruise with NCL. I must say, this will most likely be my last cruise with NCL so, that was a no-go. I finally figured out a way to play with cash. The workers were no help in trying to help me figure that out. I can say one good thing though. The drinks were stiff! Since I am a mojito drinker, the 2-for-1 mojitos were great! They had that two nights that I recall. You can also make dinner reservations for any of the specialty restaurants a day in advance. We were allowed to do it two days in advance one time, but only because it was the first night AND we had a balcony suite. The suite, by the way, is smaller than Carnival's. Also, when you cruise Carnival, the balcony suite is considered VIP so, you get to "cut" in line. We also had an escort to our room on Carnival. I did find that Carnival had better dining options and better overall customer service, which I will detail later.

Day 2 we were supposed to go to Freeport. Instead, we spent most of the day at sea and went to Nassau due to the weather. That didn't bother me. You can't help the weather; and I'd rather be safe than sorry. The thing that ruined it for me was that we asked all the alcohol be taken from our room and filled with bottled water. To cut a long story short, it took hours after several calls and final visit to the reception desk; and we are not complainers. We are very laid back people, just blessed to have the finances to do something like this, especially twice! The Italian restaurant, Il Adagio, is ON POINT! The food and service are excellent in there. Also, if you drink at all, make sure to buy some Hennessey Pure White. It cannot be purchased in America. But make sure you keep it to a 2 bottle/person max. Customs will get you! The people running the gift shop will tell you otherwise though so, please be careful.

Day 3 we went to Nassau. It was definitely jacket weather, but Atlantis is beautiful. For first time cruisers, it is cheaper to do an "excursion" on your own, once you're off the boat. Of course, for safety reasons, if you're doing anything involving water activities, it's probably best to book your excursions with NCL. Neither my husband or I swim so, we limit ourselves to site seeing and food. This night, we did the French restaurant, Le Bistro. Horrible! The service is S-L-O-W! We had planned on doing a "game show" after dinner. Dinner took so long, the game show was actually over by the time we finished. The food was mediocre. I don't recommend that restaurant. Read more