This was the first luxury cruise my husband and I have taken; and given the price tag, we expected 5-star (or at least near 5-star) service. Sadly, it was more of a 3.5 to 4 star experience (at a 5+-star price). I don't normally write reviews; but feel I have to so that people don't waste thousands of dollars on future trips.

Multiple times we arrived in the main dining room only to wait 2-3+ minutes with no one making eye contact or saying 'hello' until we flagged someone down. I get better service at McDonald's! Then our waiter the first night came to our table without no "hello", no smile, no "My name is ... and I'll be your waiter". It was a bit surreal. Not a great way to to start a "luxury" vacation. Other nights were similar with the exception of one waiter who knew the meaning of service. We talked to many other guests having similar spotty service experiences.

We went into a lounge for afternoon tea one day and sat down at the only table available that was full of dirty cups, plates, etc. We were there at least 15 minutes and no waiter bothered to come by and pick up any of this. Again...surreal for a "luxury" cruise. Read more