We chose this cruise as I had cruised with RCI on five previous occasions and never had cause to complain. Unfortunately I found this particular cruise fell short of the standards previously experienced on Majesty, Navigator, Adventure and Empress of the seas. The ship looks as though it is in need of a makeover on close inspection. Overall I was disappointed in the drop in standard of the dress code in the main restaurant and the extra charges put on the drinks and the day gratuity per person per cabin. On Formal night people were allowed in the main dining room in shorts which i have never seen on other RCI ships. Even crew members were in agreement with me on this.
The shore excursion s are extremely expensive and you would be well advised to make your own way to doe of the attractions. For example the RCI water taxi from the cruise ship into St Marks Square Venice is $10 per person dearer than the local water taxi. The local boats are more flexible os you dock in Venice overnight and the last RCI taxi is 10pm yet there is no curfew on the ship.
Each cabin is charged $13.50 per person per cabin gratuity which is apparently divided amongst all the attendants and waiters. Personally I prefer to chose who I reward for service and you can have this charge removed or modified at the end of the trip.
Very good with a treaty attendant who found nothing too much trouble.
The tender to shore was efficient. We chose to get the local train to Monaco and Monte Carlo. 6 Euros return and well worth the visit.
Took the independent water taxi at ten euros per person cheaper than the cruise taxi.
Well worth it. If you have never been to venice its a must. As our cruise was docked overnight we chose to eat out in venice at night. Well worth it.
Beautiful scenery on the sail in. Get up on deck early as it takes awhile to sail in and the ships sides soon fill up to gewt the views and photo opportunities.
Well worth the visit.
Embarcation was very good. Unfortunately one piece of luggage was mislaid on disembarking. However this was quickly rectified.