Having read some very mixed reviews of this ship I was curious to form my own opinions and experience Splendour for myself. It always intrigues me how there can be so vastly differing reports of the same ship. I am pleased to say that my experience was superb and fulfilled an ambition to cruise through the Suez Canal. From start to finish the ship and its outstanding crew did a great deal to make my experience memorable.

Boarding at Venice could not have been easier, the ground staff helped me with my bags from the taxi and I was onboard the ship 15 minutes later. Virtually no line in the terminal. The muster drill was quick and painless and we departed as the sun was going down in very cold temperatures.

First things first, if you like a drink (and I do) then buy the drinks package and forget about it. I found with around 4 drinks a day I would break even and was able to relax at the bars and enjoy good wines with my dinner. My Elite status with Celebrity transfers to Diamond status on Royal Caribbean which gained me access to the Crown and Anchor lounge event from 5pm until 8pm daily where we had the pleasure of being served by one of RCCLs very best bar tenders, Vinny. Read more