We recently returned from the Equinox 12 night Venice Overnight sailing. Following is a brief recap of our experiences. Overall, we had a terrific cruise. Some parts were spectacular and others perhaps a minor disappointment.
We were picked up in Barcelona by Barcelona Day Tours to give us a 4 hour highlight tour ( and help us stay awake) We booked this with another couple we met on CC. The information was great and we had a taste of all the "important "sights. We had a 2-night pre stay at the Grand Hotel Central in Barcelona. It was a very nice, excellent location and good amenities. It has a beautiful rooftop infinity pool, but unfortunately, we had several days of cold rain so we never enjoyed this feature. Staff was terrific. Barcelona was beautiful and we did not let the rain stop us from seeing everything and having some great food.
The hotel was just a short cab ride to the port. We arrived at the port about 11:30 and the port was very busy. Funny -- we were directed to a "priority" security line (we are Elite) and it had just one security scanner. The "regular" line had four scammers so the folks in the regular line got through security WAY faster than those in the priority line. There were several different actual check-in lines, for Elite- Suite- general passenger etc. and all seemed to be moving efficiently. There was a duty free shop after security and it was evident that one could pick up additional wine/soda to bring on board.