We decided on a sunshine cruise from Florida, to get away from the winter weather, not really sure of what to expect. We hoped we had chosen a cruise ship that was not too formal, but were going into the "unknown". We stayed at the Lago Mar Resort, Fort Lauderdale, for one night before joining the cruise. Lovely hotel right on the beach, was nice to be back in Florida. Limo transfer took us to the Pier and embarkation was quick and efficient, albeit basic surroundings. We were in our mini suite stateroom in no time, and the luggage was waiting for us when we returned from our initial orientation of the ship. The stateroom was excellent - enormous amount of storage - more than any hotel room we have visited - lots of hanging space, and spotless bathroom with full bath and shower and lots of toiletries. The balcony was really nice and despite being open at the roof (on Dolphin deck), because we were at the front of the ship quite private.
Took a little while to orientate ourselves as such a big ship and our first cruise, but everywhere was spotless and we soon became accustomed.
The dining rooms (Da Vinci and Michaelangelo we used mainly) were very pleasant and a good variety of dining menus presented and we were always seated at a table for two. The lounges and bars were of a really high standard, as were the informal all day eating options.
Our cabin was in a very quiet location towards the front of the ship, we really enjoyed the balcony space (despite no roof) and privacy was no problem at all. There were young children in the family suite next door but we hardly heard them and when we did they were just excited at their trip.Very quiet in the hallway too. Lovely mini suite, very comfortable bed, with side cupboards,lots of lighting, and just the right seating area to enjoy breakfast in our room. Nice rounded shape to the cupboards, gave plenty of storage space, very easy to move around. Fridge supplied with bottled water (reasonable priced) and ice and sodas. Two modern flat screen TVs, on in the bedroom area and other in the seating, but with everything available on board we hardly turned them on. Plenty of hangers in the hanging space, and lots of room in the side cupboard, with room safe. Lots of toiletries in the bathroom and we 'borrowed' bathrobes for the trip which was nice. Fresh fruit each day was another really nice amenity.