I was a first time cruiser when we set sail Jan 3 and was pleased with our first time cruise experience.

Accommodations: We were in a 2bdrm grand suite on the 6th floor. I was a little worried about how much room we would have for a family of 7, and also worried about how dated the cabin would be, but I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of space and the updates. Our balcony was huge and nicely equipped with a table for 4, a Jacuzzi, 2 sun lounges, and still room for the kids to play. We spent a lot of room time out there.

Dining: As suite guests we had private dining breakfast in Chop Grille. This was great to be able to dine with great views of the water in a more quiet location. The Suite Lounge offered free cocktails & drinks from 4:30-8 so we didn't bother buying a drink package. I wasn't impressed with the main dining room menu options, but the service was still great. Those in our family who chose whatever beef was served that night were generally pleased with it. I didn't particularly care for the lunch options in the Windjammer so we ordered room service or ate in the suite lounge most days for lunch. Read more