wwaggone

We just back from a NCL cruise and the only complaint we had was the dining. It was a complete disaster and even though we had dining reservations we made before the cruise, every night we sat at a different table, the wait staff didn't to really care and the wait for food was long because some tables were having salad at the same time others were having dessert. IMHO, freestyle or dynamic dining is a complete failure. There were long lines at every restaurant every night that we had to cut through since we were the lucky ones with pre-reservations. A set table at a set time is wonderful and we really missed this luxury!

We love to try new types of foods, especially those that have unique spices. I was pleased to see that these ethnic foods are even appearing in the MDR on various ships. Unfortunately, many cruisers are happy with pizza, burgers, and chicken fingers.

The United States Cruise Line MS Patriot also sailed the Hawaiian Islands until 9/11. It seems that the fear of flying followed by the cost of flying was much more a factor in the demise of the pre-NCLA than crew issues.

Aside from the surfing, the two classes seem virtually identical. For those that have sailed both, what is the pros and cons between the two. Thanks.

Our first cruise was also on the Dolphin IV. I remember sitting on the floor leaning up against a cushion in the show lounge. I also remember all the layers of varnish and paint everywhere on the ship, even on the shuffle board and ping pong table. Things have really changed. It was a great beginning. If it wasn't for the Dolphin IV, we may never had started our obsession with cruising:) .