We are two travellers in our early 50's. We have been on 13 cruises in the last 10 years and have four more booked - one with Celebrity (Europe), one with RCI (New England) and two with Azamara (Antarctica in Jan and St Pete's next June). We went on the INDY as we wanted a no-fly holiday and a bit of luxury so we were prepared to pay top whack for a Grand Suite. Before we left my sister said we would love the ship but not our fellow passengers.

We had a private car to travel to Southampton, arriving at 12.30 p.m. As gold card suite guests embarkation was flawless. We went straight to a check in desk and we were on board within minutes. Unlike most other ships we have been on the first impression of our welcome was somewhat lacking. There was no-one there to really welcome you on board, no welcome glass of champagne and no-one to show you to your cabin. Because of the size of the ship you can understand that, but considering we had paid well over £4000 it was a little disappointing. On the other hand - we were impressed generally by the ship, it's appearance, pictures, fittings, facilities etc. That was a good first impression.

We had to wait a while for access to our stateroom but when we got in we were well impressed. We were in a Grand Suite 1556 and it was fantastic. Our stateroom attendant Elena became a friend over the 11 days on board and nothing was too much trouble for her - well done Elena and RCI. Read more