We booked this cruise when the open booking began in September of 08. Watching the progress of the building of the ship, and the subsequent sailing updates from Captain Bill, only psyched us up all the more. The ship and its staff did NOT disappoint!!

I did extensive research on Trip Advisor, as we planned on staying 3 days prior to our cruise, in the Ft. Lauderdale area. We chose the Napoli BelMar hotel(Summerland Suites/Birch Patio)on Orton Ave. Walking distance to beach, shopping, restaurants and the water taxi. ($130.00 per night for efficiency with stove/fridge/microwave, king size bed) Angela DeSanto was very good to us, gave us great recommendations for dinner. I look forward to staying there again. We rented a car at the airport and were able to go to Everglades National Park for an Air boat ride ( Contact Capt. Greg at... captgreg@bellsouth.net )we ate Alligator, little bit chewy, but was tasty!

The time we were told in our cruise documents said to be at the ship no sooner than 2pm. We did what other cruise critic members said, and we were at the port at 1230pm, and on the ship, eating lunch at the Solarium Bistro, shortly thereafter. THE SHIP!!!! What can I say? The first walk onto the Promenade was awe-inspiring. Absolutely beautiful. Be prepared to be just simply happy to be there. Even though there were so many people getting on board at the same time, it did not feel frenzied or disorganized. Royal was doing the best they could to move the crowds in the proper direction with as little discomfort as possible. Read more