Let me first say that this article was written in May of 2010, so the information regarding cabin categories and occupancy was correct as of that date. In April 2011, NCL expanded its categories and category occupancy in an attempt at revenue enhancement. That explains the difference between the categories you recite and those that we recite, so our information is accurate as of the date of the review.

Mini-suite guests are allowed to check-in with all other suite guests at the cruise terminal in New York. However, there is no distinct boarding line for mini-suite guests. By the time we completed check-in, we boarded immediately, so it was a non-issue.

We don’t feel that the rules don’t apply to us, but rather that they are often stupid and short-sighted. I have no problem breaking the rule regarding dropping hand luggage at our cabin, because cruise lines have eliminated the alternative. You see, back in the good old days, each ship offered a baggage drop area. Typically it was a lounge or conference room. Most cruise lines have eliminated this convenience, so they leave families with little choice but to “break the rules”. If you choose to carry your hand lugagge, stroller and kids around the ship for two hours, that is a personal choice. We will not do it…period.

With respect to reviewing a program that we didn’t use, let me say this – 90% of our reviews of kid’s programs are based upon factual elements that do not require actual participation. Having said that, we did participate in numerous activities run by the Kid’s Crew staff and Nick staff. We also observed the staff, lack of security and sparse nature of the club and its activities. The staff failed three critical safety/security tests. One – they skirted their own rule on requiring a signature upon enrollment and presentation of a key card from an adult to check out a child. Two – they left a rear door to the club unlocked, providing access to any passenger. This was particularly disturbing because we observed numerous breaches over the course of several days. Three – staff continued to host an activity while broken glass was within feet of children who were running back and forth, some without shoes. The staff was aware, but did nothing, beacause “it wasn’t their job”. My wife and I ended up securing the area so that kids would not get hurt. The bottom line is that every encounter with the youth staff was somewhere between average and poor. This sentiment was echoed by many other families that we interviewed during the cruise.

We have sailed with every major cruise line and several minor cruise lines, so this review is relative to all of our other experiences. If we were to choose a cruise based upon the quality of the kids program, NCL would be our last choice. We stand by that assessment.

Finally, regarding food – it is often a personal choice. The selection is very good, but as with most cruise lines, quality is a bit iffy at times. Again, we stick with factual data, then add some personal opinions. If you read our book, you’ll find that we are rather honest in our review of each cruise line. We’ve conducted a great deal of research over the course of 24 years and over 30 cruises and we stand by our conclusions.

We’re glad that you have found a cruise line that you love. Enjoy your upcoming cruises!

I’m surprised that you rated a program that didn’t use. Many children don’t want to go to a daycare setting until they are there, they hey don’t want to leave. My kids went through it too, we said we’d come back in twenty minutes and let them decide if they wanted to stay. Always a resounding YES!

You also provided incorrect information regarding the cabins. There are two bedroom suites, owners suites, deluxe owners suites, penthouses with large balconies (forward) penthouses (aft) 2 bedroom courtyard villas (now called Haven) and the Garden Villas. All of these are larger than the mini suites.

As well, being in a mini-suite does not entitle you to board in the suite line. As well, I personally follow the rules and wouldn’t break the rules in front of my kids to drop off the carry-ons, but lots of people don’t think the rules apply to them.

Looking forward to my next 4 cruises currently booked on NCL.