I have only taken three cruises in the past though I've traveled extensively by air and auto. I went on this cruise alone (for privacy and paid the premium), and had a single inside stateroom, as part of a group of 30-40 people particpating in a conference.
The most noticeable feature of this cruise is that its like being in an assisted living home. The average age was well over 65 and you encounter people in wheelchairs, walkers and with oxygen tanks around every corner. Very few children and hardly any 20-40 year olds. That said, it was quiet by 9pm, not crowded, and I met some very interesting people with a wealth of life experience. Here's a recap.
1. Flew from home to Ft Lauderdale and stayed the night before at the Comfort Inn & suites near the port. Perfect choice, CVS Pharmacy next door was handy for last minute shampoo, bug spray and suntan lotion.
Loved the room since I had it all to myself! Plenty of space, I brought waaaaay too many clothes. Wake up service was wonderful since I didn't bring a watch. Steward was attentive and prompt. Plenty of room for getting ready, lots of convenient lighting. Suprised at the number of TV channels, handy for checking weather and overview of upcoming day. Would have been easy to share, though not with someone I'd just met.
good shopping here for wrapping up trip
too short a walk and not very far into the forest
Excellent views of canal, lake and operation of the canal.
knowledgeable guide, plenty of opportunity to explore, comfortable transportation, shopping
relaxing and great beach, no hawkers, no one walking around offering drinks
not worth it, not maintained and surrounded by construction fence.