Marina Review

4.5 / 5.0
811 reviews

Wonderful itinerary in an interesting part of the world

Review for South America Cruise on Marina
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dhmjdds
10+ Cruises • Age 60s

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Sail Date: Dec 2016
Cabin: Penthouse Suite

We had a good-to-very-good cruise experience, but the itinerary was great so all in all it gets an excellent rating. This cruise was over the holidays, Buenos Aires to Valparaiso, Chile. The ship was full, but unlike some other holiday cruises we have done, it usually didn't seem packed, except in the Terrace Cafe for some breakfasts and lunches. It was often hard to figure out why it was so busy there on some days. When the weather was bad, they couldn't use the tables outside, so that made a difference of course. We were a group of six, ranging in age from 18 to 58. This is definitely not a kids cruiseline, but since it was the holidays there were a fair number of children of all ages on board; all were extremely well-behaved. Be aware that they ostensibly have a 21-year-old drinking age anywhere in the world. However, this was sometimes observed and sometimes not; it just depended on the server. My 18-year-old was often served wine at dinner, but sometimes not; he also could sometimes order in the bars.

We had one penthouse suite and two concierge staterooms. The penthouse suite was an excellent choice. Just big enough without being ridiculous (and ridiculously expensive), plenty of storage, room for our whole family to sit and play games or have drinks before dinner, very nice bathroom. They do have a clothesline in the tub, unlike some other ships (looking at you, Celebrity). The walk-in closet is great. Our butler, Churchill, was fabulous and a big plus for us, though we are pretty low maintenance.

I agree with the comments about the small size of the staterooms, concierge or otherwise. Really tight for space and storage. People always complain about the small size of Crystal's staterooms, but these seemed even smaller. The beds are really short for our 6-foot-plus family members. The closets seemed tiny too and clothes for two people for 17 days just wouldn't fit.

Cabin Review

Penthouse Suite

Cabin PH1

Penthouse suites are a great size with plenty of sitting space, closet space, a good size balcony with comfortable chairs, and a lovely bathroom. The ship isn't huge, so you are convenient wherever your cabin is. There are laundries on each floor; $2 for a token, one token to wash and one to dry. Ironing boards in there as well. Never really had trouble getting a machine. They provide detergent; bring dryer sheets with you from home.

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