We were nervous about our first cruise. We're hooked! We had a great time on the Norwegian Pearl. We stayed at the Ritz-Calton Key Biscayne the night before. Great hotel and very easy drive over to the Port of Miami. When we got to the Port we were directed to curbside luggage check-in ( Very quick and easy). The kids and I tagged our luggage while my husband parked the car in the parking structure. Also very easy. (You do have to pay for parking when you enter the lot $20/day in cash only) We arrived at 10:30am and checked in quickly and then waited 2 hours to board the ship. We should have arrived alittle later.

We booked a mini-suite and inside cabin across the hall for the kids.(Deck 11). Never cruising before we were not sure what to expect, but the cabin were very nice and well designed. We never felt cramped. The mini-suite had a nice bathroom with tub and separate toilet area. The kids inside cabin was smaller but comfortable. I am a very picky when it comes to beds and linens ( I drive my husband crazy) but I have no complaints. The beds were surprisingly comfy as well as the pillows and comforter. No icky bedspreads, yeah! We also loved the coffee maker in our room and enjoyed coffee on the balcony every morning. Good hiardryers in every cabin, I didn't need to pack mine.

Everyone was very positive and helpful onboard. The dining was great. We ate mostly at the the Grand Cafe (buffet). It was quick and had plenty of options for everyone. The kids liked the Blue Lagoon (24hour restaurant) We ate at both the Summer Palace and Indigo, both were good. Same menu at both restaurants. We tried to book the Teppanyaki but was already sold outwe should have booked the first couple of days. We did eat at the Cagney's steak house. The service was outstanding, great crab cakes! The steak were good and we would go back, worth the upcharge ($20/pp). Read more