We were first time cruisers and went with Thompson as they had been recommended. We had read the reviews and were somewhat aprehensive about the ship. We were extremely surprised. Yes, we had a smell in our cabin of sewage and once we highlighted this to reception, we were moved into another room. (The ship is in Germany for a month before it goes to the caribbean for maintenance and this will be sorted then, so no need to worry) The rooms were extremely clean and comfortable. Beny, our cleaner was polite, friendly and helpful. The rooms are cleaned in the morning and at night, with a turn down service at night with a cruise information for the next port and a chocolate on the bed. Linen and towels clean and in good condition. The food is out of this world. If anyone has complained about this then they weren't on the same ship as us.I am a vegetarian and extremely fussy and there was always plenty of choice. If i wanted something specific, all you have to do is ask. The service from the waiters are second to none. Plates, glasses and crockery sparkling. I commentated one night about a dish i liked and they brought me another one out to eat. They also have a good memory and remember your drinks so you don't have to keep ordering. The entertainment is varied and the shows are fantastic. The entertainers are always friendly and chatty. The check in and out service is pain free. The cases are brought to your room on arrival and took away on departure. You are fully informed of everything that is happening. Once a day, just before sailing, the captain comes over the intercom and talks the ship. These were entertaining and well received. We had the all inclusive drinks package, and this well worth having. The drink prices are the same as the UK. They have a duty free shop which is cheaper than the airports. The photos are a bit pricey though but there is no pressure to buy. The gym is well equipped and we used it. The excursions are varied and the tour guides are helpful and local people who know the area.

We will definitely be booking to go on this ship again, this time for two weeks.