This was my first-ever cruise. We were on a family reunion with 13 people and seven rooms. To put it simply, I have become a cruiser for life.

Embarkation was a nightmare. The process seemed to last for hours and it did. I have had smoother check-in at the airport. We circled on-line for almost two hours before reaching the check-in counter, where the agent had difficulty assigning everyone in my party to their proper rooms. Be sure to pack your patience and lots of snacks. Our bags were in our rooms by the time we got there.

I found the size of our cabin small but, again, I am a first-time cruiser. The bathroom was equally small but the shower was terrific. The closet was above average size. My favorite spot to hang out was the balcony. I cannot understand how anyone would cruise any other way without seeing the ocean up close and smelling the saltiness of the water. We brought extension cords and surge protectors for extra electrical outlets. Read more