We arrived at Avonmouth port in good time for our 6 night cruise to Spain and France, calling at Getxo (for Bilbao), La Pallice (for La Rochelle), and L'Orient . We normally have to travel to Southampton for our cruises, so this was convenient as we live in the South West, saving us an hour of travelling time. The facilities at Avonmouth are basic, but parking is just a couple of minutes walk from the port, which is a bonus.

The ship underwent a refit last year, and we found it to be light, airy and spacious. The food in the restaurants is good, and the service throughout the ship is of a high standard.. We liked the new coffee bar, but didn't try the outdoor Grill restaurant. N. B.there is a supplement for eating in this restaurant, which started at £15 per person, then was reduced to £10 per person after a couple of days!

Entertainment was of a high standard, with a comedian and an international flautist, Stephen Clark, as well as the ship's company. The port lectures given by Hazel Griffiths were very useful, and its possible to visit all the ports without having to take the ship's tours if you wish. There were also some interesting lectures given by Mick Dawson about his successful trip across the North Pacific in a rowing boat. Read more