We cruised on the NCL Breakaway (NCLB) on the August 17-25 sailing from NY to Bermuda. As a means of background, we opted for 2 inside cabins for our family of 5 (2 adults, 3 kids) and traveled with 2 other families, each with 2 adults and 2 kids. This was the 5th cruise for my wife and I (previously on Princess, RC, and NCL Dawn) and first for the 3 kids in our family.

Let me begin by saying that I expected the worst, given the very recent negative reviews by alot of individuals on this site and others. What I've walked away from after the fact is that people will truly look to complain about anything, and that if you can't just relax and let things slide a bit on vacation you will never enjoy yourself.

Embarkation- smooth. We arrived in NYC after having driven about 1 hour from home on Long Island, dropped the bags downstairs along with the family, and after a quick loop, parked the car upstairs directly over the boarding area. We were processed through security and NCL's check-in (we are Lattitudes members and took part in online check in prior) in less than 1 hour. Boarding was smooth- wait for your number and board the ship along with the rest of your group. Upon boarding, we headed for one of the open restaurants and had a great meal. Departure from NYC was timely and festive. Sure, there were alot of people on the top deck, but everyone of course wanted to take in the great views as we departed NY and cruised under the bridge. Read more