This cruise went to Japan (ports in all four main islands), two ports in South Korea, three ports in Taiwan and one port in Russia. We enjoyed all the Japanese ports of call and the Taiwanese ports. The South Korean port calls at Jeju and Busan were not very interesting. The choice of a Russian port was terrible, what a poor destination. Many people did not bother to go ashore. Although we had booked this cruise for 27 days it was also marketed as three nine day cruises. The shorter cruises attracted the Japanese cruiser and others. We feel that we got a great overview of Japan (our first visit there) and went to quite a few quieter destinations that the average tourist would never see. We also enjoyed the return visits to Yokohama that allowed us a day ashore to explore Tokyo.

This was the first time we have booked a Interior Stateroom so felt a little trepidation here. Absolutely no problems, we were very happy with our choice - quiet and spacious. It was 182 square feet compared to the standard interior stateroom of 168 square feet and is also a different floor plan. Running 'along' the corridor rather than inwards. We think that above us was the pool and behind us a plant room. We had absolutely no noise problems. Our closets and bathroom were located in their own area behind the TV/Fridge. We had an enclosed closet and a larger open closet (numerous coat hangers provided along with bath robes) and opposite was a closet with shelves. This area was completely private from the entrance door and the bedroom. The bathroom storage was good with a long lower shelf and a three level wall shelf unit. The shower was small but manageable with good flow of water. As usual you have to be careful to ensure the shower curtain stays inside the shower! We found Aloha level good for an Interior Stateroom as you could be looking out to sea very easily by just going up one level.

The onboard activities included Japanese/English classes that we enjoyed. It was great to meet our fellow cruiser from Japan and practice our language skills with them. We also went to art auctions, Head Chef presentation with galley tour, port lectures and many of the usual cruise activities. The pools and hot tubs, movies under the stars (when the weather permitted), quiet spots for reading and lounging were all very good. The library was a little disappointing but we had our own ebooks so it did not bother us. Read more