Back cruising after 25 years, so this is our first experience really because the standard is better we feel. I chose this ship because of the intinary which included Portafino and Villafranche(for Monaco). What a shock when 3 weeks before cruising we found out that we had Nice instead and instead of Portafino,we had Tunis.Having said that, one day stopovers, we had French singing in the square of Nice, Spanish guitar and dancing, a rare chance to see Nth Africa and Kasbah and Medina.Next time, in Livorno we would go to Portovenere close by and see a bit more of Sorrento or go to Pompeii.The ship was just the right size with a great layout. The staff were mostly very good. Great organisation that worked so smoothly. Very good team of organisers.Very good food too. We were lucky with the weather being a perfect balance of the ports (23-28C).The weather was fine and the sea smooth so we don't know how it would go on rough seas of a long trip. There was good entertainment although some casual group playing during the day etc ...might have been nice.About 50% dearer than our RCL cruise in 2011, I would have to say that this is the standard setter and I'm thinking that below Cunard (too posh?), I can't think anyone would equal it. Reluctant to book any other unless just to try.