My husband and I (both in our mid 50's) have cruised twice on Royal Caribbean and once on Carnival. Enjoyed Royal Caribbean, Carnival- not so much, though it was an older ship. This time, due to the need to travel during my Spring Break, NCL worked out the best. We flew to New Orleans on Sat. and stayed at the W. Okay hotel, great location if you want to visit the French Quarter. We had never been and were able to really enjoy it, even just for a few hours that evening. Lots of energy, great music, outstanding food, both at dinner (Mr. B's) and breakfast(Stanleys).

Embarkation- very easy- they start letting people on the ship at 12, but they let you line up prior to that so if you get there before 12 no worries. We were on within 1/2 hour.

Stateroom- clean, larger than others I have been on- lots of space for luggage, cosmetics, etc. Hair dryer, nice shower, shampoo, body wash. NOTE- bring a clock that lights up- your cell phone won't work and if you want to know the time in the middle of the night... I had read reviews complaining of the hard bed but we did not find it to be an issue- felt firm but not hard. Read more