This is our forth sailing on NCL, our first on the Dawn, first from Tampa, but have been on this Western Carib route in the past - most recently on the Jade from Houston 2 years ago.

As this was our first time sailing from Tampa, I didn't know what to expect. One thing I noticed right away was the clientele was a bit different than what we've seen on NCL going out of Miami. I felt like we were getting on Carnival. All I'll say for now is baseball hats and tank-tops are not appropriate at dinner. And what is up with wearing the American flag as a pair of shorts? Uuum.. ya.

Our journey began in Chicago. We decided to drive for several reasons, mostly cost of airfare, as we booked this sailing much closer to the sail date than we have in the past, and air was outrageous. Other reasons we drove were that we typically stop at family along the way - first in Indi, to see the in laws, and to kennel the dog & cat. Much more affordable there vs home. Read more