We decided to book through a travel agent because as first time cruisers we wanted to be sure all transfers, flights, and hotel bookings were synchronised and everything went to plan. The cost was still very competitive and with a cabin with balcony upgrade we were very happy.

The BOS is like a well oiled machine, and we were impressed that they can accommodate over 2000 passengers so efficiently, there were always sun loungers available, sometimes we had to share a table in the Windjammer but this was an opportunity to have a change of company occasionally and without exception we found the staff and service very good.

Dining - we preferred to use the Windjammer for breakfast and lunch and eat in the Minstrel Dining Room (2nd sitting, level 4) in the evening. Not having cruised before we can only compare it to hotel dining where waiter service is virtually extinct, buffets are very repetitive and the choice and quality is limited. BOS wins hands down for choice and catered for most tastes, including Curries, Mexican food, Sushi, Pizza, Pasta, american pancakes and french toast with maple syrup which I love, an egg and omelette bar and a range of sweets and cookies which always included some sugar free options and fresh fruit. We had some very good fish/seafood in the Minstrel dining room and my husband enjoyed the steak cooked medium rare just as he liked it. We did not speak to anyone who was not satisfied with the food. Alcoholic drinks are expensive, so be prepared. Read more