I have to admit, I was a bit apprehensive about cruising. The boat. The water. The people. And while some of it came true (there are many disabled and older, 70+, folks on board) - we had a great time!

From the check-in process, which was very easy (we each brought a bottle of champagne in our carry-on, properly told the CBP official and got through effortlessly) to baggage delivery (before 4p!) - we were impressed from the jump. We did not mind the tip fees once we saw what it entailed - almost ALL the staff were VERY friendly and went out of our way for us! We even waited for a table each night to ensure that we got placed with our favorite Crimson Dining wait staff! The cabin was cleaned twice a day and while some of the towel animals were a bit indecipherable, it's the effort that counts.

I will say that the Chef Art's Steakhouse was NOT worth the extra money. Fancy dress nights? FOOD WAS DELICIOUS! Lunch was great each day, I can't even complain about breakfast! Read more