The Embarkation was curt , calm and very smooth , we were onboard in under half an hour. I was travelling with my 2 older teenagers in a quad which was laid out well. My daughter had her own makeup area and a huge private dressing area in front of the washroom which was larger than average. She was happy. (BD cabin 701). The balcony was smallish but very adequate. No lifeboat obstruction looking downward , I enjoy seeing the water. Quiet !

The ship layout is fairly straightforward if you stick to Promenade to get anywhere and don't get fancy. We were at the stern so never missed the amidships stairway which I hear they are adding anyway. The lack of a functional walking outdoor promenade is a BIG problem for me. The walking track on the top deck doesn't cut it for walkers , The Grand Class Princess ships have a great promenade. The demographic target for this cruise (45-70 it looks like) omits the rock climbing walls , surfing machines , water slides etc. , and replaces them with quiet areas and a private Sanctuary , perfect for us. The central pool area has live entertainment and the huge movie screen which is great for hot tub movies and night time movies , great fun. The dancing water fountain is a bit of a bust I thought. Joining the pools together seemed a better use of real estate.

The food was excellent in all areas. We had Early Fixed Dining near a window that worked really well for getting to the shows which filled up quickly. The beef and seafood were always excellent. The Norman Love chocolate deserts were the go to desert although my son orders the Love Boat Volcano . Another must order ! Read more