I chose the Epic to try the studio cabins. I enjoyed the studio cabin and the "Living Room" area for the studio cabins. Embarkation was not awful, although slow. On board, couldn't get an elevator, of course, so had to walk up four flights of stairs with carry-ons. Once on board and in cabin it was fine. Had made my reservations for shows and specialty restaurants ahead of time, or on the first day on board, and had no problems. Glad I read up on the Epic or I wouldn't have known to make reservations before arriving on board or about Freestyle cruising. For me personally, the Epic was too big, with too many people. I found the crew and staff friendly and accommodating. Am going on the Epic again next January, but probably will try a small NCL ship after January 2018. Food was good, not exceptional. Specialty dining was very good.