We choose this cruise for Aruba port stop and the time of year, when most schools are open. We are trying to book cruises on RCI so we can accumulate points. We took a taxi from Miami airport we appreciated not having to go to a hotel for the night and unpack. Ship departed from Miami at 5pm giving us plenty of time for checking in. The onboard process was smoother and quicker than previous cruise which departing from Fort Lauderdale. More checkin stations and just walk in service at 11:30am. Windjammer opened at 12noon. We hung out in the pool area enjoying the music until 1pm when rooms were ready.

NOS was decorated for the holidays and everyone was in a festive spirit. Only a few school age children onboard this 9day cruise and families with infants & toddlers. Ship was full and seniors were the majority. Ship was quiet and deserted after midnight. Shows were enjoyable, especially the late night adult comedy shows. We only did 1 of the 2 formal nights using the my time dining option. We went to the Windjammer for meals. We enjoyed the trivia games and hubby went to casino once. We did RCI sightseeing panoramic excursions at each port. We only layed out on the beach at Labadee. RCI provided a fantastic beach side lunch on their island port of Labadee. Most relaxing cruise and great opportunity to meet people from all over the world.

This was the first of two back-to-back cruises for us. Same ship and in same cabin, leaving Miami on 12/17 for 5day Western Carribean Cruise. Big difference in atmosphere from the first cruise. See that cruise review for details.