The main purpose of taking this cruise was to escape January in the UK and this it did although we were repeatedly told that it was the worst crossing weatherwise for many a year. On the outward journey we experienced very rough seas with a severe swell although Captain Bourne did his best to make a detour around the low pressure. The weather in the Caribbean in January is by no means continuous sunshine although the sea and land averaged 26 degrees.

The captain left us in Barbados, presumably to take his leave but with the changeover of cruise director as well later it did mean there was a little lack of continuity.

As many have reported, the ship is showing considerable wear and tear particularly on deck despite the brave efforts of the maintenance crew who were out in all weathers trying to deal with rust and worn hand rails.Unless the ship is taken out of service(apparently not due until Autumn 2017)problems will nodoubt continue to occur such as leaking pipes ,malfunctioning toilets,failing tv mast. This was probably more evident on a long cruise with many sea days. Read more