EMBARK: We arrived at Cape Liberty at 2:30 p.m. and the line to enter the parking lot was unreal. Must have taken an hour to enter terminal bldg. We heard from other family members (this was in-law's 50th anniversary cruise with 27 people on board) that 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. were much better times to arrive. Even better, get someone to drop you off! Other lines to board the ship were ok.

STATEROOM: DH and I had a small balcony room that connected to the same room for our boys (6 and 8). Rooms were quite small but adequate closet, drawer space. Beds were basically cots with a mattress on top. This was a controversy in our group. Some loved them, some hated them. I loved the beds because they were comfy, mattress and pillows seemed new and loads of space underneath to store your suitcases. Never used minibar but used safe religiously. DH one night messed up the code and room maintenance immed. sent up someone to fix it. Balcony was nice but really no view except when we were in port (that part of the Atlantic is pretty boring). Not crazy about bathrooms but standard cruise ship complaints. Attendant left several cute towel animals.

FOOD: We loved the Carmen dining room. Our waiter Lazlo was so entertaining. Generally speaking try to order their recommendations because they know was they are talking about! I would recommend the following: Filet of Beef (mignon), Mahi Mahi, Cod, Prime Rib, Stuffed Chicken, anything chocolate, any of the salads. Read more