After reading the reviews online before sailing on the Discovery I was very apprehensive but I have to say I absolutely loved the cruise. I did not find one member of staff miserable, they were all very friendly. We had an inside cabin which was kept clean. We always managed to find a sunbed in the shade even on the day at sea without getting up early. The food was of a very good quality and we divided our week by eating in the main restaurant and the Italian restaurant. We did not have to wait for a table once and we liked the fact we could eat at our own table without having to share a table at all mealtimes. We also ate in the Glasshouse one night and had tapas and pizzas. Service was extremely efficient given the number of passengers and wine and water glasses were filled up when nearly empty. We sometimes had to wait a little while for drinks round the pool, again not surprising given the ship was full, but it was not excessive and as we were on holiday didn't mind waiting. The entertainment was good and the singers and saxophonist were superb. There was always a good choice of activities/entertainment during the day and at night and we also went to the Bar Eleven at night which was a quieter option.

We went on three excursions; Taormina, Pompeii and Pisa. It was without doubt easier to do these with Thomson as the coaches were waiting and the guides were informative and we were given our own handsets at Pompeii and Pisa so we could hear the guide as the groups were large (approx 45) but unfortunately we didn't hear what the guide was saying very well in Pisa with the equipment.

We were a party of 4 with our sons, aged 17 and 20 and we all enjoyed our cruise. We saw some great sights and had a great week on Discovery. All transfers were extremely smooth and I would not hesitate on going back again.