First time to the Mediterranean, we chose this beautiful brand new ship to embark on. Reasons for choosing this ship were mainly the karting track, thermal spa, and itinerary. We opted for the 2nd guest flies free, 2 specialty dining package among the Free at Sea promotion offerings. I traveled with my husband, 5 year old son, brother-in-law, and mother-in-law and had connecting balcony rooms on deck 12.

Embarkation in Lisbon: Quick and relatively smooth. The person checking us in clicked two incorrect answers on our health survey, which required the ship's medical doctor to come and override. Arrival to the port to stepping foot on the ship took less than an hour.

Once on board, we headed to the Food Hall for lunch and to wait until our rooms were ready. You use tablets to order your food, which is all included. Servers deliver your dishes to you and help you with beverages, if needed. There is a self-service beverage station in the center of the food hall. There are plenty of tables outside of the food hall, as well, as a self-serve ice cream machine (which we didn't find until the 2nd to last day of our cruise!). The variety of options were good and the menu changes slightly for dinner. I liked everything we had. My favorite was probably the Topofos (Nachos from the Latin Quarter). Breakfast is also served, but it's more like self-service buffet. NOTE: If you find the Surfside Cafe (buffet) is too crowded for breakfast, head to the food hall for pretty much the same offerings with plenty more space to sit! Read more