Embarkation - we were very disappointed with the embarkation process. Mardi Gras traffic put us behind schedule but that will not be considered. When we arrived our baggage was handled efficiently. From there we stood in a very long line to pass through detectors as only two of the three were operating. After clearing that area we then stood in long lines to register and collect needed information. That process would have been sped up with more than just a few people handling the many cruisers.

Food - we have nothing but good to say about the food. The only speciality meal we had was the Jazz 'n Brunch offering on Saturday. It was well worth the %15 charge per individual. The morning meals were taken in Raffles Buffet and the variety and quality were good. For lunch we either did Raffles, the Blue Lagoon, Windows or the Bier Garten. We must say the cheeseburgers, tomato-basil soup, chicken wings and won ton soup in the Blue Lagoon were excellent. Dinner was spilt between Windows and the Gardens. The menu is the same for both and the selection varied and was excellent. We preferred the atmosphere in the Gardens but both are very fine. We didn't see the need to try the extra cost restaurants as we were very satisfied with what we had. We also had coffee brought to our room each morning to enjoy the balcony more.

Entertainment - we made a point to attend all shows and were extremely satisfied with most. Our favorite was the tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons called 'Oh What a Night'. The 'On Broadway' show was also excellent. Jonathan Neil, illusionist, started slow but finished strong and the Second City Comedy show was very good. From a music standpoint we enjoyed especially the shows in the Galaxy of the Stars as well as Champagne Charlie's. The Galaxy of the Stars had Dixieland, Jazz, Big Band, Swing and 50's and 60's music while Champagne Charlie's had piano, blues ,etc. We made Maharajas Casino twice but found it very tight and also on part of the ship that seemed to be less steady than any other. Read more