This was so much nicer than the mega ships we've sailed on in the past. Everything was top notch. The cabin was not huge but there was plenty of storage for all our stuff and the cabin was kept very neat and spotlessly clean. The food was good, not gourmet but very good especially in the specialty restaurants. Food presentation was excellent as was the service. The entire staff was friendly and professional.
Although we engaged a private guide in St Petersburg the shore excursions offed by the cruise line were well organized and there were several options in each port. Our 3 days in St Petersburg was the highlight but I can't imagine visiting this city with 48 fellow cruisers on a motor coach. We used Alex's Tours & Travel and it was fabulous and easy! There were just 6 of us in a spacious private car with an amazing guide who knew everything about everything. And the cost was no more than the ship's shore excursion. Embarkation and debarkation were very easy and went smoothly and quickly.
Although not huge there was plenty of room for all our clothing and stuff. Cabin stewards were excellent and the cabin was always perfectly cleaned and neat. Each day there was fresh fruit and a full ice bucket which is so much nicer than those silly towel animals found on other cruise lines.