Just the wife and I on this one, we have no interest in New Orleans itself. Its just a very convenient hour and a half away. Getting on and off the ship is a breeze here with very easy going customs people and lots of helpful porters. I found the ship itself to be top notch, with the exception of a few minor water leaks spotted outside the 6th floor forward elevators. We went with a guaranteed room and when I saw where it was, my heart dropped. It was one of four ocean view rooms stuck on the 6th floor forward crammed between the casino and the theater. Amazingly though, it was the quietest room we ever had on a cruise. We had a small private hallway only used for these 4 rooms with no traffic. They were so well insulated from the theater, we never heard a peep, even during the loudest shows. The only drawback was the smell of smoke in the hallway from the casino, but no trace of it in our room. Our room steward was amazing, and the most attentive we have ever had, even though he only had 4 rooms on our floor and the rest were below us.

Dining: We did not sample any of the specialty restaurants this go round. We usually do, but we were so satisfied with the included fare, there was no need. We ate in both main dining rooms as well as the bamboo restaurant, which I think is a genius addition. The only complaint was the buffet seemed to have slightly less variety than we were used to seeing on Norwegian. The quality was good though, with plenty of fresh veggies and fruit which is our cup of tea.

Cozumel: This time we opted for the secret river and we were not disappointing. This was a very physical, uncomfortable, and wonderful experience. Not for the elderly or really laid back. My wife and I are both in our 30s and are fit, so it was right up our alley. The caves were so beautiful, and being able to literally immerse yourself in them was an awe inspiring experience. The food they served us was delicious and healthy, and the guides were great without treating us like babies. You cant take pics, but of course they have a photographer with you and can buy the pics at the end of the tour. Its a bit pricey at 100$ for a flash drive with pics, but they really are professional quality and no one will believe you when you tell them what it was like. Do this excursion if you can. Read more