This was our first cruise over the Christmas and New Year period and a very big thank you to all crew members of the Independance for making our time onboard a memorable one.As cruisers we sometimes take the excellent service by the crew for granted,however,they work hard at all times and it must be difficult for them spending time away from their families during the holiday season

We boarded the ship on the 21st December.Check in was chaotic as it took over 2 hours to clear security.With a ship as big as the Independance Southampton really needs a larger teminal to process arriving guests.Once on board we were able to go straight to our cabin on deck three(outside).As we normally book a balcony we were a little aprehensive as to the size of the cabin on a long cruise,however,we need not have worried as there was plenty of space for storing items and clothing and a large and extremely comfotable bed.Only a shower but plentiful hot water and strong jets.A slight negative being positioned close to the night club entrance in that you can hear the music well into the night but not really enough to keep you awake unless you are a very light sleeper.Also,the smell of tobacco permiated through to the corridor on occasions which for a non smoker such as myself is a luitle offputting.

From the very start there were plenty of activities planned by the cruise staff to get you into the holiday mood.Infact this was a constant theme with never a dull moment.a quizzers paradise if you are that way inclined with at least 6 quizzes a day.Unfortunately we never won any of those that we attended but its the fun of taking part.As for the entertainment.The production shows,ice shows and guest performers were first class all under the influence of the cruise directoe Joff Eaton who seemed to be here there and everywhere.Our only grumble was the entertainment provided at the themed pub(Dog and Badger) and the piano bar.The music here was below par and far too repetitive for a long cruise. Read more