We booked this cruise in February 2016 in order to get some Autumn sun rather than for the ports of call as we have visited most ports for holiday in the past. When we booked we received the inclusive drinks package, which, based on previous cruises, included wine by the galss, beer, soft drinks, spirits and cocktails (all with a $ limit on each drink). However, a couple of weeks prior to sailing (and after final payment) we received an email explaining that the 'Select' drinks package was no longer available but would be honoured for this cruise: what would be covered was beer, wine, fountain sodas and non-alcoholic cocktails, but with the option to upgrade to the 'Ultimate' package on-board. Not a great start.

Check-in at Southampton was efficient (much better than our last cruise from Southampton) and we were soon on board by about 11:30am. We did upgrade to the 'Ultimate' drinks package on the basis that a piña colada and bottle of San Peligrino water each day would more than cover the upgrade cost.

We had intended to go to the Solarium to chill out after our journey. What we didn't know is that this solarium has no roof, so was too cold to change into swimming shorts. Never been on a ship before where the solarium has no roof; always thought the idea of the solarium was that it was somewhere warm to go regardless of outside weather conditions. Read more