jlat

We use them, don't give a rip about it being dorky or not. Losing one (I have) is a pain especially if you are off ship. The kids hang theirs by the door or the closet, and they never forget to leave the cabin with out it. If I don't want to wear it I just roll it up and put it in my pocket, but if I am in swim trunks it is good to have it in something that you can just grab and go to the bar.

Judge not least ye be judged :D

Its funny..we are doing the opposite. We are trying RCCL for the first time, next month for a Southern Caribbean cruise. I'm a big NCL fan, but wanted to try something different and the dates fell right for the kids spring break. I'm guessing that there isn't a ton of difference between the two lines, both seem to do a good job in providing service. I do enjoy the suite life on NCL though.

Jamie was on the Jewel this past week, not the best but she did a good job, we were happy with her.

We've been on the Sun and the Jewel with Jamie. I think she's great. She's not a balls out party girl, but I like how she interacts with the passengers and you can tell she is really passionate about her job. Didn't care too much for Sin the ACD on the Jewel though.

We just were on the Jewel a few weeks ago - I believe it was JAIME DeSOUZA from Canada who was the cruise director. We saw her at least twice a day (and heard from her more than that on the speaker system). We thought she was very nice, a little less outgoing that some, but friendly and certainly good natured. I'm thinking she must be related to the concierge mentioned above?

Jamie is awesome. We sailed with her on the Sun in 2012. She's got a very dry wit but has a wicked sense of humor. We saw her around every day. She's not a party girl type but loves her job and and no problem pulling up a chair and talking to the passengers. Glad to hear she will be on the Jewel when we sail in a couple of weeks.

The POA was our very first NCL cruise. I must say it was one of the best. We did have a problem with our cabin steward actually getting into an argument with my wife. We had her replaced on the second day with someone else and never had another problem. In fact we hung out with some of the crew at the beach in front of Marriott in Kauai when we stopped there. We had beers, swam and played volleyball all afternoon. We are good friends with the dad of one of their chefs and he echoed a lot of what the OP said. Every ship has good crew and bad crew. The POA is a fine ship and is well run. It is the best way to see a cross section of Hawaii and enjoy the perks of being on a cruise boat.

I would probably look at other lines than DCL. For the money, the value just isn't there. Most all cruise lines offer great service, RCCL is great, as is NCL many others. Do your research from a price perspective, itinerary and on board activities. NCL will be bringing the Breakaway out next year RCCL has great ships as well. Disney has adult areas, but little for adults to do other than hit the bars, a few "tastings" and a couple of "adult" shows (PG-13 actually). Their stops in the Caribbean are a little tired (Nassau...ugh). Any line you choose, you'll have fun, but go for the most bang for your buck and then plow those savings back into cool excursions, premium dining etc. Have fun!