Decided on Galveston since it was close to our home state. Have previously always left out of Florida. Drove from Oklahoma to Galveston the day before. Traffic from Houston to Galveston was backed up, and at times at a standstill probably since it was Memorial Day weekend. Stayed at Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort. Parking at the hotel was gated and secure. Liked the balcony looking out at the beach. Pool was pretty and had restful night before our cruise. Sunday morning had a light breakfast and headed to the Lighthouse Parking we had reserved over the Internet. Parking shuttle took us to the cruise terminal without waiting. The process at the terminal was very quick and smooth. Comfortable and cool while waiting, and the lines were short. Took about an hour for the whole process including picture, then we were on the Lido deck to have lunch and explore the ship. Room was scheduled to be ready at 1:30pm. We had 3 rooms that were located Aft. Would not have picked this particular location except we had changed our reservation from June to Memorial Day weekend, and these were the inside rooms available on Riviera Deck. Room had plenty of space for clothes and the beds were comfortable. Bathroom was what you would expect for a cruise bathroom. Being at the back of the ship on the lower level made for frequent engine vibrations and noise, but it never kept us awake. Easy to sleep when you have an inside cabin because they are so dark.

Assigned to the Monet Dining Room and had a table by the window with just the 6 of us. Was nice to be able to see out, only disadvantage was that a wall was on the other side, and you couldn't see the rest of the dining room. Waiters were good and danced 3 nights and sang a couple of nights. Menu had selections so that everyone could find something they liked. Compared to past cruises, found it odd that we were always given water to drink, but not asked if we wanted anything else such as tea. I always requested coffee with dessert and they did bring it, and a cappuccino for one of the others. Food on the lido deck was good, some better than others. Liked the way this ship had numerous buffet lines and plenty of seating. We tried breakfast on the Lido and the MDR. Both were good.

Lay out of the ship is a little confusing when you want to go to the other end. A few of the floors do not go through, so you have to study the deck plan sometimes to figure it out. Liked the small pocket sized deck plan they give you when you board, and of course there are some posted on the walls by the elevators to help also. Read more