I have sailed from Cape Liberty twice previously and the process was tolerable (multiple sheds and shuttle bus). However, this time the process was not good. Embarkation: Luggage was falling out of the bins when being transported to the ship. Took over an hour to arrive at the check-in counter; lines for different loyalty tiers were not managed well. Disembarkation: Luggage was stationed in the second shed but shuttle bus dropped us off in the first shed. Long walk to find luggage. Many luggage handlers and porters took the day 'off' as it was Christmas Eve; porters who did show up were overworked and it was difficult to find an available porter. Only four customs agents but the lines moved reasonably well.

The Silouette is lovely. I took this cruise to experience an "S-Class" ship and was not disappointed. However, I still prefer the Constellation or the little, now-departed Mercury. Will be happy to sail again on an "S-Class" ship but the port and itinerary will dictate future cruise selections.

We experienced some high seas; I thought the ship rode well (mid ship, deck 7); others disagreed. Read more