Booked a family suite on the Star. Travelled with my wife and 10 year old daughter. Tampa was an easy drive from Atlanta. With the ship leaving on a Sunday we had an extra day to make the trip. Left about 6:00 on Friday and made it to a Hampton Inn at the last Georgia exit by 10:00 p.m. Found this room for much cheaper than the Hamptons further down. Took our time travelling down Saturday. Stopped at Goodwill in Ocala and found some cheap water shoes since I had forgotten mine. Arrived at the Hampton Inn Ybor City and checked in about 3:00. Enjoyed dinner and walking around Ybor City before calling it a night early.
Left the car at the Hampton and took a 5 minute ride to the port about noon on Sunday. With the special suite checkin we were on board and in our room within a few minutes escorted by our concierge, Monica. The suite had no balcony but had floor to ceiling windows. The pool deck was less than 50 yards away so the convenience of the pool somewhat made up for the lack of a balcony.
Sail out party was great with the dancers putting on a great show by the pool deck. The pool band was also very good. Entertainment was first rate all week with the exception of 2nd city which is just not my cup of tea. We attended the 2nd City Murder Mystery on the last sea day for an additional $20 each and this proved to be a mistake for us. The entertainment and food were both very mediocre.