This was our first NCL cruise after multiple Royal cruises. Embarkation was smooth and quick. We were onboard by 11:15AM and were directed to the Garden Cafe for lunch, which did not open until noon. By that time, the crowds were building and getting food proved to be get what you can. The room, and balcony, were smaller than expected but the bathroom was a nice surprise for its size. Dinner the first night in the Manhattan Room was a 2 hour 45 minute ordeal. Our waiter disappeared after taking our order.

I found the gym a bit cramped but it had all of the necessary equipment for a good workout. Spin classes are $20/class extra, but they do supply the shoes. Walking back to the room at 6:45 AM, i noticed most of the deck chairs on deck 15 were already "reserved" with towels and personal items. By 8AM there were no chairs to be found. For adults, try the H2O Zone on the back of deck 16 for a nice waterfall and kid-free experience. Getting a drink was extremely difficult as there was not waiter service on deck (if there was, none came my way). I had to go to the bar, 4-5 deep, to get a drink. This might be the way they control the drink package.

Rock of Ages, Howl at the Moon, and the jazz club were all fantastic entermainment options. Burn the Floor is for dance lovers only. Read more