This is my second cruise on NCL (1st one- NCL Spirit booze cruise out of NYC), but my first experience with the "freestyle cruising" concept.

What worked: 1.Port em/disembarkation: they were fast and efficient. I have never been on a cruise where you can check in at 10 AM. 2. People cruising: some of the friendliest people so far- even the kids were great and well behaved. 3. Ports of call: If you are going to go on a Western Car. cruise, you must see Mayan ruins. The excursions are top notch. 4. Price: the price for the location, ports, excursions was right. 5. Gym: better one I have seen so far.

What did not work for me: 1. Food- I get it...and other reviewers know how it works. Yes you can eat when you want and with who(which you can now do on other lines as well), but the food is one level above cafeteria. Breakfast is the best bet. If you are eating in Windows, order two entrees and eat the one you like better. Or order a steak- they have to cook it to order so you know it is always fresh. The trick is that if you want better food you have to pay for it. So if you cruise for food- this is not for you. 2. Steward service...not what I expected. Room was formatted for queen bed when it should have been two singles. Found items from past cruisers. The bed was uncomfortable AT BEST. A chiropractic hazard! Had to pad the mattress with my quilt- and they never asked me why or what they could do about it. 3. Location of cabin- BE CAREFUL. This is a smaller, older boat. Modern boats have better soundproofing. Spirit does not. When you book- take a close look at the floors above and below you. Ask where the anchor is in location to your cabin. I had an inside cabin on the 11th floor- as I prefer sleeping on higher floors. My cabin was right below the service area of the Raffles Court. So between 10PM-1AM and 5AM-7AM you can hear the service crew cleaning, banging, dragging, spilling, knocking...well you get the idea. My friend can sleep through a parade and was started on several occasions. Read more