We flew to southampton and got the train. The port was within walking distance from the train station (15mins ish) we left our bags at the port early morning and went off shopping in southampton centre. We boarded the boat at around 12 for a 4pm departure. Getting on the ship was very very quick and easy! Cabins werent open straight away so we headed for FOOD! The ship was great not too too big but big enough to keep you occupied. Food was great, sorrentos was a little disappointing. We also paid the fee for johnny rockets just to see the diner and dancing waiters. Only did this the once food was nothing special actually preferred windjammers burgers. Service is fantastic couldnt fault the staff and 99% of the entertainment was fantastic. Bingo tickets were very expensive and the ice rink was open on very few occassions and for very short amounts of time. Though the session we went to was not very busy. I did think it would be open 9-5 most days unless bad weather but this was not the case. Do not go to the art auction unless you really are interested. We went for the free champagne got stuck there THREE hours and then hounded by the dealers for the remainder of the holiday to purchase something! We also won a 'free' piece of art that they wanted us to pay to be delivered (wouldnt let us take away with luggage). Bit of a scam. Drinks packages worked well for us. My hubby didnt think he could consistantly drink enough alcohol to break even on the package so he had the non- alcoholic coffee package and i had the soda package. I think we did get our money back. The non- alcoholic cocktails my hubby had looked great. Overall good value for money, no problems with the excursions we booked online. All in all a very smooth stress free holiday.