Choosing to cruise during hurricane season with the possibility of a change in ports, I selected this ship based on the ship itself vs itinerary.

The ship:

We had a balcony stateroom overlooking the ocean. There was ample space for sitting and chatting after the kids went to bed. Room was clean. Only one outlet, which can be tricky with five people. Only two elevator areas for the entire ship. They were often too crowded to even bother using. If you got in an empty one, you would be smushed in the back by the end. Many times the doors would open for you to be picked up but the elevator was too full to get on. (On a plus side, I got my exercise in using the stairs!). The ship is starting to show signs of wear with many seats in the Amber theater having worn “leather.” Lots to discover walking around the ship. Getting your luggage was a cluster. Every cruise I’ve ever been on, they leave it outside your door. This one, they just ditched everybody’s luggage up and down the corridor and it was a free for all getting it. Very weird setup. We had a family member whose bag was held by security for no reason. When she got the notice that her bag was with security, she went down and they asked her if she had any “tools” in her suitcase,(she’s not in the trades and doesn’t sail with tools). They continued questioning her so she opened up her bag to prove she didn’t have any “unapproved” items. She was allowed to leave with her bag but not offered an apology for the hassle. Read more