There were so many things wrong with this cruise I feel I need to start with what was right: the rolls and breads were delicious, the cabin steward did a fine job and our luggage was already at our cabin when we arrived. Pretty much everything else was awful.

Although I would not categorize it as a problem, it was interesting to note that shortly after our arrival in our cabin the steward came and asked what nationality we were. When told that we were Americans he asked if we would be wanting ice in the room every day. When I stated that we would, he incredulously asked, "In the winter?" Ah well, we crazy American ice lovers. Not too long later he brought the ice and two wash cloths. In pretty much of the world they don't use wash cloths, but as Americans we were given two new ones every day.

The first dinner was crazy. We were hungry and thirsty and asked for water. They wanted money for bottled water. We and the other diners at out table stated that we just wanted some tap water. It never arrived. Finally it was pointed out that American and Canadian passengers were given vouchers for one daily 2 liter bottle of water. Apparently since Europeans are accustomed to buying bottled water all the time, they do not object to this additional cost at every dinner. Read more