We are a couple 65+. (Probably the average age would be 50's, probably due to the swimming and snorkelling/diving activities offered.) We chose this cruise as we hadn't been to Tahiti before. We have always cruised on larger mid size ships - minimum 1800-2000 passengers. We have been spoilt now for the small ship as service was so much more personal (300 passengers on this trip) and definitely no queueing at the buffet for breakfast and trying to find a spare table! We went to La Veranda restaurant for breakfast each morning where we were greeted at the entrance and shown to a table then our order for coffee or tea was taken and we went over to the buffet - very civilized, never too many people.

Embarkation was very quick and smooth and on the last day we were able to stay in our stateroom until 9.30am and then use the public rooms until 10.00am. (No being rushed off the ship at 8.00am). The ship was to start embarkation for the next trip at 3.00pm!

Needless to say, the food in the main evening restaurant, L'Etoile was superb, as was the special dining experience in La Veranda at night which offer a gourmet, reservation only venue. There was no surcharge for this dining experience and no charge for any of the drinks including cocktails throughout the cruise. Another restaurant, Le Grill offers reservation only Polynesian dining in the evening. Read more