We flew into Ft. Lauderdale a day early. On Friday, we got up rather late and had several errands to run. So, we didn't get to the port until about 3:00. When we pulled up, there was still a significant amount of luggage left to be loaded. We gave the porter 5 bucks and went on our way (we packed 2 large suitcases and 2 small suitcases). We were very pleasantly surprised that the facilities for boarding the ship was empty; there was one other couple who happened to come along at the same time. So, we provided our passports and a credit card and we were on our way! As we walked onto the ship, there was the normal champagne and mimosa's. We found our room and dropped off the couple of bags that we'd carried on and then headed to the buffet for a bite to eat (we hadn't gotten a chance to eat lunch). The buffet was very good and there was plenty of open seating to be had.

After lunch, we headed to our room to get our life vests for the drill. This exercise was pretty painless and was soon over. In the auditorium, we met our first friends. From San Antonio and owned at one of the same timeshares as we do!

After this, we took a short nap and were soon getting ready for dinner. We had the early seating (at 6:00 PM). We were seated at a table for 8 and again, met a new set of friends; two couples from Prince Edward Island (absolutely charming and never a dull moment). Also a couple from Buffalo who where great fun also. We were always the last table to leave the dining room. Our waiter and assistant waiter were fantastic always wanted to make sure that we were happy with your selection. They had no problem at all with bringing two servings or several different servings to try (several times, I received both the soup and salad without really even asking). The first night, my wife asked for iced tea. The assistant server brought a glass for each of us and he always made sure to give us iced tea for the rest of the cruise. Delightful. The quality of the food was very, very good. I had the lamb chops one evening and lamb shank another and both were excellent. We all loved the breads excellent! Be sure to try the chilled soups they were very refreshing and had a hint of cinnamon. The cream brulee was extraordinary. The appetizers and soups / salads are a bit on the small side, but are perfect when paired with a large meat dish portions, plus a dessert. Read more