We wanted to sail through the canal. The price and dates worked out for us. We have sailed on numerous cruise lines. The star was average, nothing exceptional. We scheduled offshore activities through the internet. Meals were fine, but no lobster meal anywhere. Entertainment was nothing exceptional. Usual activities onboard. Good narration through the canal. Music was loud, hard to find a quiet place. Not many children aboard. Accommodating layout. We would probably choose a different cruise line next time. We had some great shore excursions, but did not purchase any through the ship. Good choice of ports, some concerns with tender service. In tendered ports, be sure to sign up early, as gold and platinum cruisers get preference. If you have scheduled excursions off the ship, you may need to call ahead if seas are choppy, as tenders are limited. Overall this cruise was acceptable, great experience, going through the cana!.