We decided on this ship based on the ease of getting to Tampa and the itinerary (Cozumel, Belize, Mahogany Bay, & Grand Cayman). We also do not like the larger class ships, so this felt comfortable to us. It is a Spirit class ship. It started off a little rough, due to the internet being down and they could not get the previous guests off so we could board, so the Faster to the Fun was more Faster to the Waiting Area. Still, once on board, our cabin was ready although our luggage was not there as promised. Still, we were able to drop off the carry on, put our mixers in the fridge and head off to Lido to lunch. Once fed, got a couple drinks...thank God they had a decent craft beer selection....and back to the cabin to survey our balcony. Our balcony was fantastic, basically as large as our cabin. We spent a lot of time on the balcony, when our noisy neighbors were not around, as it is so relaxing to sit and listen to the waves roll by. Our cabin steward, Marvin, was friendly and good at his job. He really made us feel welcome and took care of our needs. Ice was replenished regularly for fresh drinks in the cabin. John Heald sent us a nice gift for our anniversary, and the Gold status got us some bottles of water that lasted us through the cruise. The cabin and the ship overall were in decent shape. Yes, she showed a little age, but so would you if you were abused day in and day out!

The MDR was nice, but the service a little off as our head waiter went down part way through the cruise and the trainees assisting were not as skilled. We watched another team do an amazing job though, so I think it was just luck of the draw. On deck 2 aft, there was quite a bit of vibration that leads me to believe a prop or shaft is not as it should be. The food was decent, but in my opinion what used to be standard in the MDR now is an up charge from the steak house most evenings. The dancing dining staff gave us a laugh. The Lido deck staff did okay, but the food sometimes left a little to be desired. After one breakfast there, we dined in the MDR for breakfast therafter and were much happier. My wife ate gluten and dairy free fairly easily. The deli menu looks tasty, but the preparation and presentation is not as good.

The Alchemy bar did the best job of making a Manhattan, with the Atrium bar a close second. The rest of the bartenders appeared clueless. My wife fell in love with the Mango Magic in the Red Frog, which was fine with me as many times they were on happy hour and I got 2 Stouts for the price of 1. They even let me carry out unopened cans so I could enjoy on the balcony. Titus was a fantastic waiter there, good with patrons of all ages. Read more