We chose this cruise because of ports and price; both were great so when we realized it left out of New Orleans, which we had never visited, we booked immediately. We spent 2 nights pre-cruise at Place D'Armes, which was very nice and well located. Thanks to a great CruiseCritic roll call, we met with several cruise critic members for a great NOLA tour the day previous to the sailing. We had a great time, thanks especially to Raymonda and his wonderful wife. Boarding is well organized and lunch is readily available upon boarding. Cabins are ready by 2 or earlier.
OUR INSIDE CABIN: it was just perfect and very quiet. We loved it. The bathroom was very nice, with a shower door that slides, rather than the shower curtain that sticks to your body. There were both a desk chair and an arm chair and plenty of closet space as well as a safe. It was kept very neat by the stewards and turn down service was prompt as well.
THE FOOD SERVICE: We found no reason to pay extra for our meals; we ate breakfast in Raffles everyday, and loved it. Lunch was either in port or at Raffles, or blue Lagoon. and dinner every night was either Windows or the Garden restaurants. All of these restaurants were free and served tasty food. Service was fine at all the restaurants and you can order as much food as you want, Most nights I ordered 3 appetizers and some nights my husband ordered 2 entrees. The coffee is delicious and free. (They do have extra charge specialty coffees, though.) Ice cream (soft serve and hard) is available almost all the time, and yes, we both ate way too much.