I like smaller ships and have always wanted to go through the Panama Canal. A friend found this 16 day cruise that began in Miami and ended up in our home port of San Francisco with dates that worked for us. We found the ship to be very comfortable, the food was excellent and varied, the staff were very friendly and efficient (and represented 57 countries), and the lectures and activities were wonderful.

We were on a waiting list for a veranda cabin but ended up with an ocean view cabin with a large picture window and small sitting area. I found the cabin to be small and the bathroom even smaller. (I've been spoiled by Regent Navigator's cabins with separate tub and shower and walk-in closet.) We had enough storage space for our things - but in a small wardrobe and lots of different little cabinets and drawers.

The shipboard experience really was wonderful, and we met so many interesting people. Most of the travelers were retirement age. (I think we saw only two couples under the age of 50 and no children at all & this really isn't a ship for children.) Read more