First, I would like to say I've only cruised with Royal Caribbean (16 times) and it's the only cruise line I know. My lovely wife wanted something other than the boring Western Caribbean itinerary that's offered from our home port in Galveston TX. We've traveled to Florida ports many times, to link up with RCL ships providing better destinations. We also hold shares with all three companies, so that was also used against me to try something new. side note: wasn't excited about trying something new.

We used the "fly" package that NCL offered, since it was BOGO and took advantage of all the "Free at Sea promos" they offered. We flew out the morning of the cruise on United airlines and even picked our seats. No problems with the flight coming, leaving, or the bus transfers. Although, they could have booked an earlier flight leaving, since we were off the ship by 09:45 and our flight back was at 16:52. All in all no problems.

We attended our Cruise Critic gathering and had the pleasure of meeting some of the officers and other CC members. RCL tends to promote these for us, if we have over 25 members cruising. NCL had no problem providing a space for us and refreshments. Thanks NCL and Cruise Critic member Hazelnutcns for organizing the event. Read more