AKR2011

My first cruise was in high school when my choir competed against other schools on the Carnival Fantasy. I sold over 2,000 candy bars in order to go, and I immediately fell in love with the ocean and dreamed of going back. My family didn't have any money for vacations, I went into student loan debt attending a state college, and then I started working in the nonprofit world while paying back said loans back. Many years later future husband and I opted to throw our wedding plans out the window since we were too poor anyway. We had a skydiving wedding instead, then spent the rest of our wedding money on a 7 night NCL cruise. He was hooked, I was relaxed like never before, and we vowed to come back to sea. We now try to cruise every two years or so and especially enjoy longer journeys. I dig for bargains when possible and budget every penny to make it happen. We both work in mental health now, so vacation is incredibly important. NCL has always given us a wonderful experience, so we're Platinum and don't really have plans to switch. However, I definitely follow the other boards here and have thought about switching it up someday.

A collapsible hamper, packing cubes, a mini umbrella, a luggage tag that has a sewing kit inside, a cruise safe multi device charger, magnetic hooks, and reusable straws.

Thanks for the great review, I loved following along and really appreciated the port guides tip.. I can't wait to really dig into planning since I'm headed to Canada and New England next year myself 😀

Welcome back! I'm excited to follow along. Was this your first cruise on The Spirit? She is definitely one I have on my bucket list.

Hey, Michelle. I always love your reviews but haven't been super active on here recently. I'm so glad I saw this latest report from you. Over spring break this past year DH and I took a long road trip to OK, and we did a little detour to Wemago, Kansas. There is an awesome Oz museum there that I highly recommend. We will be cruising to Bermuda next summer, so I am especially interested in your review here. As a Muppet super-fan, I will definitely have to check out the caves. Thanks so much for sharing, and I look forward to reading about the rest of your trip.

Things Others Dislike: I love to wake up SUPER early - sometimes before 5am - to walk laps around the promenade and catch the sunrise. I also pack games, including some big and heavy ones, so that we can hang out and play in the Great Outdoors area near the bar in the afternoons, or really any bar that isn't too crowded. Controversial: I dislike the pool deck and avoid basking in the sun for more than a couple hours each day when I attempt to catch a tan and read on an upper deck. There are too many other things to enjoy! I also typically avoid all beaches and instead look for long tours where I can explore the most culture. I feel like you waste a day in a foreign country if you spend it on a beach or just in the immediate port area.

I haven't read a good review in a while, so I'm so happy that you posted. I love reading about the adventures with your dad. You're making some special memories together ❤

I always enjoy your reviews and appreciate that you take the time to bring us along. I loved seeing your kids having fun this time around. Stay safe and I look forward to catching up on your next adventure ❤⚓

I love the mini golf photos. DH and I actually research mini golf when we travel and seek out the best courses. This one looks great!

The service on The Sun was the best. A small ship where we really got to know the crew. But The Escape had tons of entertainment and dining options. Howl at the Moon was our absolute favorite! I would sail either ship again in a heartbeat. That being said, nothing beats The Great Outdoors on the Jewel class ships with great shows every night and game shows at The Spinnaker. I just love being at sea ❤⚓

As a gamer, I am so impressed! I still love the classics, but Catan, Ticket To Ride, Azul, Wingspan? Seriously great choices! I usually have to pack these myself and scout out other gamers. Is there a get-together for playing?

My mom is a celiac and she and my dad are taking their first ever cruise on The Pearl with us next year. I am so happy that this an option for her!

Thanks for another awesome review! I'm looking forward to your next one 🍎NYC

It only took your first cruise to finally earn the "rare" badge. I'm looking forward to your next half 👍

I've been looking forward to this one! I'm a huge fan of your reviews. Love yout style, and you and W seem like my kinda people. Thanks so much for sharing! ❤⚓ Ashley

Thanks once again for a great review! We used the same service to enjoy New Orleans after our cruise in 2016. Such an easy way to enjoy the city without paying for an extra overnight.

I'm sorry for stepping away from The Tribe, and I hope to jump back soon. For now, I'm excited to follow your latest trip. I'm so happy that this B2B worked out! ❤⚓ Ashley

I always look forward to your awesome reviews with Patti's beautiful photos. Thanks so much for taking us along again! ❤⚓ Ashley

Thanks for starting your review so early. I appreciate all of your advice since Alaska is on my bucket list, and I almost went in 2021. You always give the most thorough reviews. Safe travels next weekend! ❤⚓ Ashley

Your review just keeps getting better. It sounds like crew really loved taking care of your dad. I always find that NCL goes above and beyond if you're a kind and appreciative passenger. That's why I can't get myself to switch.

Hooray! Matthew and Susan are back 😀 I am so excited for this review. I'm so happy you made it back to sea. ❤⚓ Ashley

I'm absolutely loving your review. Alaska is on my bucket list, and The Jewel was my first NCL ship back in 2011. I appreciate your writing style and enjoy your take on cruising with your dad. My parents are joining DH and me for their first cruise in 2023, and I'm hoping that they enjoy it as much as we do.