This was our first cruise. We left from New Orleans. Spent time before hand in New Orleans. The night before leaving on the cruise, we stayed at La Quinta Inn in Metarine which a suburb of New Orleans. Not much to look at from the outside but clean and neat. Set up long-term parking before hand online. Make sure you read the fine print about what it all entails.

Check in at port went very smoothly. No problems finding room. All the staff on ship was very helpful from start to finish. Ship left later than planned due to arriving late in New Orleans.

If you don't get enough to eat on a cruise, it is your own fault. The selection of food all day, everyday is amazing. Quality of food is outstanding. Never had a bad meal on the ship. Dinner is like dining at a 5 star restaurant every night. Service was outstanding. There is something for everyone on the ship. Had movies every night on the big screen. Bands playing several locations everyday. Can go dancing every night or listen to music in the blues club. Choices are endless. Comedy shows were great. As well as the Broadway style shows. Bingo goes on several times. Computer access available to those who want it. There were 3 pools that were salt water so rather cold. Also there were plenty of hot tubs for people to use. Water slide also available. Plenty of areas for people to just sit and enjoy the beautiful weather. Bars readily accessible. Staff around all the time to see if you need anything. Casino and shopping available as well. Sales nice draw to get people into on-ship stores. Read more