This was our third time on the Spirit leaving from our home base Newcastle on Tyne. First of all I was delighted by the efficient way the port authorities dealt with the passengers before we actually booked in. Quickly and efficiently our cases were taken from us Thomson staff gave out literature and directions before we went into the main hall. We were given a number asked to be seated and when our number was called in batches we boarded a shuttle bus to take us to the ship.

I realise this is an old ship but was pleasantly surprised to see that a lot of refurbishing has taken place with new furniture and carpets in several locations. Apparently this is on going. We were travelling to the Baltic which included Germany Estonia Finland St Petersburg, Sweden and finally Denmark. The only disappointment being the weather which Thomson have absolutely no control over. Rain and fog so thick you could not see the sea. Fog horns going all night.(no complaint there) safety takes precedent over sleep.

The crew were as always amazing cheerful polite and efficient. Even tried to help me learn some Russian. Read more