This was our first cruise and a celebration of our 25th anniversary. We were very impressed with most of the cruise staff, particularly the dancers (who also take side duties during the day) and wait staff at the two upper level restaurants. The special dining provided a very high level of service well worth the minimal added cost. Don't eat all day if you plan to dine at Sabatini's -- yet it's an Italian meal you shouldn't miss.

A few minor problems. (1) Our cabin was an 8th floor over-sized suite designed for handicap passengers (which we are not) and the shower tended to flood the entire bathroom floor. Must use beach towels to contain the water;(2) ship did not carry local currency for Roratonga, which meant we had to waste some time at a local bank (local currency needed to buy gas for rental car); (3) no plug-ins near bed for 110-volt (U.S. standard) and had to borrow an extension cord; and (4) our dinner wait staff for Table 10 was not overly attentive and quite average.

We met great people on the cruise from all over the world. This included Malcolm and Gill from England, Mike and Jo from New Zealand, and Martin and Nichole from Switzerland. We did our own thing at each port and enjoyed the freedom to choose what we wanted to do. Given the smaller size of the ship, some rocking is inevitable on the open water legs. Yet, the smaller size of the ship makes it possible to get to know the wonderful staff. This ship has an excellent cruise director, Chris, who made the cruise an unforgettable experience. Entertainment included native dancers, a comic, and cruise ship dancers -- we enjoyed the native dancers from Riaitea the most.