Trying to get 3 families together was a challenge and this cruise fit the timeframe as well as being a great destination. The ship was smaller that what we were used to which was a nice treat but we missed some of the activities of the larger ships. The ports in Norway were amazing so the limited activities was not a big deal but would not want this ship on a transatlantic cruise or itinerary with a large amount of sea days. The staff in the restaurants and bars were fabulous. If you are on this ship make time to do the teppanaki and request "Velmond" (I think I got that right), he was the outstanding member on this cruise. He wa such an entertainer as well as cooking a great meal. The other highlight was the Elements show. If you only see one show on this ship, then this is the one. I had read many good reviews on this show and it did not disappoint. I loved not having to sign a receipt asking for another tip every time I got a drink (they do not make you sign for every beverage when you have the beverage package). As the tips are charged with the beverage package, no one was asking for another tip, although there were a few that provided exceptional service and we were happy to give them something extra at the end. The service from the bar staff was prompt and friendly. The Java cafe staff was always entertaining and made you feel so welcome. Our stateroom attendant was good, being friendly and always checking in. I loved the fitness center and did a workout every day of the 9 day cruise. There were lots of machines. The ladies welcoming you into the spa thermal suite were helpful and the thermal suite was amazing. That was definitely worth the cost. Unfortunately we had an issue with our travel agent (United cruises) and they did not load some offers that should have been on my account. NCL did everything they could to help and I appreciate the time they spent. We unfortunately had an issue with out stateroom bathroom and noticed it the minute we got into the cabin. There was a leak which had to be sewage behind the wall. It was not fixed until the second day and we could not use the room until the third day without feeling nautious. We could not "air it out" as the smell overtook the cabin. Fortunately I had purchased the thermal suite and could use their bathrooms and shower (they were one floor up from ours). The weather was fabulous so we could leave the balcony door open which helped. The ship was sailing full so they said there was nothing they could do and may have actually done something if it had lasted longer. These things do happen and I appreciate the repair crew and my stateroom attendant for getting a special cleanser to try and mask the smell and continually cleaning the area to try and help. I do feel that they should have refunded my thermal suite fee or at least comped our dinner one night. Overall, the smaller ship worked great for a port heavy cruise (7 port days and 2 sea days). The servers (buffet and bars) were some of the best we have had. Yes, everything you have read about the smoke from the casino is true..and it does make its way into neighboring bars, wish they would improve the ventilation. We were able to plan routes without going through the the casino.