First off let me say that this was my second cruise, the first one was only four days long so there is probably not a proper comparison.
Also like some other reviewers I made the mistake of reading some of the other less favorable reviews and was worried that the cruise would be horrendous. It wasn't I am pleased to say. So my first piece of advice would be, read the reviews but take them with a pinch of salt and go for your own experiences. You'll be surprised and enjoy yourself.
We were travelling with a tour party from the UK - four adults. Two were on deck nine and two (me and my brother) were on deck ten. We both had balconies and this was an added bonus especially on the last day when you cruise past some spectacular scenery. And there is just something about a bottle of wine and your feet up just looking at the world in general. My review is based on the experiences of myself and my brother.