This being a relatively new cruise program offered by a lesser-known company, we resolved to come aboard with restrained expectations, focusing, instead, on the novel opportunity to explore Cuba in an entirely unique fashion, likely before some significant changes transform the island, its society and its people.

We were delighted to see that it compared very well, indeed, to smaller-vessel offerings from the better-known brands in terms of amenities, staffing, itinerary, excursion opportunities, cleanliness and all-'round enjoyment. Some quibbles with some menus (e.g., breakfast buffet was okay, just - and made better with an omelette from the omelette bar, outside; meat servings tended to be overcooked for some tastes); but the dining room offerings and experience were just fine, we found. The wine service in the dining room needs attention, though, as that staff were too few and too susceptible to confusion. Same for the drink service at various shows.

Speaking of the shows, they were all very much in earnest and included some fine talents; but in many instances their artistic inspirations and themes were less than distinct and engaging, while the repeat practice of having too much stage business happening all at once (e.g., acrobatics in front of dancers while singers belted out popular songs) kept getting in the way of a simpler and more satisfying experience. In this regard, less truly is more. Small wonder, then, that the band and the performers would lose synch too often and that the execution of the choreography would suffer, likewise. Except that we're both long-time dance parents with a keen interest in promoting arts and entertainment, there's every chance we would have given several shows a pass and be none the worse. Read more