This was my 2nd cruise and first time with Costa. I last cruised 30+ yrs ago on the Fairsky to the Sth Pacific. This was my wifes first cruise and she was really apprehensive to travel,fearing sea sickness. Overall: Our expectations before this cruise was to relax, make some new friends, visit exciting ports and enjoy the food. Overall the cruise I would rate a B+

Positives: - Cabin Service: (A+) - Cabin: (A) little crammed however we spent very little time in the cabin, it was clean and homely. Bed was comfortable and we were not bothered by any outside noise. I slept like a log. Food: (A)the food was really good and plentiful, however the steak and chops were always very tough. The prawns on the cruise were as big as small lobsters and the cakes were a plenty. I gained 5kgs in two weeks so I ate very well- Hot Tubs:(B+) Hot tubs were comfortable however jets were poor. Entertainment: (A+) The dancers we very professional and friendly! The singers were entertaining and interacted well with the audience. My wife and I enjoyed relaxing in the Murano Bar playing cards and listening to the background singers or recorded music which had an 80-90s theme.

Negatives: - Smoking was permitted on one side of the ship and did waft into non smoking areas,this included internal bars and was unpleasant at times. Drinks: There was a charge for non-alcoholic drinks on board and they were grossly overpriced. We did pre-purchase soft drink cards before the cruise but A$4.50 for a can of soft drink was over the top. Cocktails were good, however very expensive around A$13 each, most passengers purchased these during the two for one happy hours. Airconditioning was very poor in the main theatre and the Yacht Club bistro was always very hot. When disembarking onto tenders we at times were delayed for up to 15mins standing in crammed and humid conditions. Read more