Sailed 12/16/06. Have previously sailed three cruise lines. Embarkation was quick. My wife and I were in our cabin by 2 p.m. (arrived 12:30 p.m. The cabin was comparable to the Princess. Designed very practically.

The food was excellent. The "no charge" restaurants were both the same in quality and menu. The Versailles was much more elegant than the Aqua. The specialty restaurants were great. La Trattoria was free. Cagneys, Le Bistro and Ginza charged $15-$20. Well worth it. Tip- as soon as you get to your cabin, call restaurant reservations or stop by their desk next to reception. Book for three or four nights in advance -Before 6 p.m. they are all half off. Endless Summer restaurants was not tried as three couples told us that it was only average. The others were great. The meals would be worth thirty to forty dollars per person at restaurants in California. The poolside barbecues were great (steak, chicken, ribs). One drawback is the buffet - there was an odd odor every day and it was crowded. Avid it, unless necessary. You can get your food there and take it poolside.

The pool was fun, but rather small. The gym was fine, but not as elegant as the Princess. Read more