Never having cruise NCL before and reading the reviews about freestyle cruising our expectations were set fairly low, but I have to admit now it was much much better than expected.
This cruise left from Tampa and we stayed at the Westin Waterside. You could almost walk to the terminal/ship from there. Lots to see and do in Tampa and we wish we had a little more time to do so.
The Tampa embarkation terminal was fairly small and there was a bit of standing around, but on the whole it was pretty simple getting on the ship and our room was ready shortly after arriving onboard.
This room selection was unique. It is listed as an MX, but we actually got to pick it on line. Not sure why, but a bonus.