We had a group of 24 going on this cruise. Group included, friends and family. We sailed out of Miami on the Liberty. We flew into Fort Lauderdale 2 days before the cruise and stayed at the Hyatt Summerfield Suites for one night then Had SAS transportation pick us up and then headed to Miami. Hotel in Fort Lauderdale was very nice. Hotel was within walking distance to many stores and a few restaurants. SAS picked us up at hotel and then we went to the airport to pick up the rest of the group and headed to Miami. Stayed at the Holiday Inn downtown Miami by Bayshore Mall. Holiday Inn was also very nice. I was skeptical after reading some reviews but hotel was clean and staff very friendly.

Saturday: Cruise day. We got a shuttle from the hotel to take our group to the port. They charged $5 pp. Very worth it because we got to keep the group together. We got to the port by 10:30 and were on the ship by 11:15. Went to the Fish and chips for lunch and then had a few DOD before going to our cabin to drop off carry on. We had a balcony room for the first time. I was looking so forward to sleeping with the door open and listening to the ocean. The first night we slept with the door open and was woke up by moving balcony chairs, loud talking and cigarette smoke. Had to close the door. Thought we would try it again the next night. Same thing. I was very disappointed with our situation. Everytime we were on our balcony or had our door open we had a cigarette with our neighbors even though we don't smoke. I don't know if this was an unfortunate situation or if other people experience this. Don't know if I would get a balcony room again due to this. We were very pleased with the room otherwise. Room Steward was great.

Sunday is a sea day. Sat by the pool. This was the first formal night. We had early seating in the Silver Dining room. Did not like the set up of the dining room on this cruise ship. Our table was along the windows but had a silver wall blocking your view from the rest of the dining room. Food very good. Food was very good every night we ate in the dining room. They do have less choices on the menu than they had 2 years ago. Read more