My wife and I are relatively new to the cruising scene. Most certainly when many of our previous fellow passengers appeared to spend most of their leisure time on board some cruise ship or other.
We have previously enjoyed four Cunard cruises, starting with the late lamented QE2 and including the maiden voyage of the Queen Elizabeth.
My wife let it be known that she would like to spend her landmark birthday on a cruise visiting the Norwegion Fjords. Not a problem. Cunards Queen Victoria and Fred Olsens Balmoral were both visiting and, as Cunard prices seemed to be on an upward spiral, we looked at Balmoral. We duly booked at the Cruise Show, and were sold on the idea that due to Balmorals smaller size, she would be able to get into ports that larger liners couldn't. We were also sold on the 'excellent customer service'
Fantastic access to the staircase and therefore the rest of the ship.
Excellent picture window and view.
Comfortable bed.
The tea/coffee making facility in the cabin was very useful and used a lot.
Good size shower.
Plenty of storage space.
Toiletries were sparse.
TV did not have any Olympics coverage at all which was disappointing. We did not want to watch all day but wanted to keep up with the precis of each day.