We have just arrived back from a Norwegian fjords cruise on the Magellan. Our previous experience was with MSC and on each occasion we have been attracted by the value for money fares and the fact that we don't have to negotiate airports. Embarkation at Dundee was smooth, even though ours seemed to be the first cruise ship to depart from here. Parking was at a car park in central Dundee ( a very short taxi ride away), in a secure car park. (The parking attendant and taxi driver were delightful and a great credit to their city.)

The cabin was lovely; spacious and well fitted out with loads of storage. The cabin steward was attentive but not obtrusive. The public areas were very well decorated and there was usually enough seating in public areas. We paid for the all inclusive drinks package which included a wide range of beers and cocktails. The bars were often quite busy and it could take some time to get served; this was an issue of insufficient staff rather than incompetent staff. Every member of staff which I met was, without fail, friendly and hardworking. We didn't see the entertainments other than the comedian (Les Bryan who was hilarious) and a lecture on life in Norway by Eric ? which was very interesting. We only ate in the formal dining room for 2 evenings. Whilst we enjoyed the food, the company and the experience, we found we preferred the informality of the Raffles Bistro which had an excellent range of quality food. The ship moored up in small harbours and due to its small size these were central locations and an easy walk. In conclusion, we had an excellent holiday. We do notice that there always seem to be a contingent on any cruise who like to spend their time talking about how other cruise lines are invariably better and how many times they have cruised before. There are always problems if you look hard enough, but for value for money and a feeling of being well looked after the Magellan ticked the right boxes.