I really can't understand how anyone would not have had a very good time on this cruise. The Pacific Pearl was good value for money. The crew were always very genuinely pleasant and forever smiling. The stateroom (we had an outside cabin on deck 6) was much bigger and much better designed than the Rhapsody of the Seas, which we cruised in November 2010.

We dined at Salt Restaurant 6 times (yes, it was that good!) and at the Chef's Table twice: both were absolute dreams. In comparison, we preferred the Plantation to the Waterfront as you could walk along the line and see what you were being offered prior to getting in the line. There was only one evening that we considered that the food was below our standard (so we dined at Salt!).

In comparison to other reviews, we had no problems with the standard of the public facilities. The two pools were sparkling clean and always filtered. The big screen was a terrific distraction and a great way to keep up to date with happenings on board. The on-board exchange rate for currency conversion was also very good: e.g. 95 Pacific Francs for a AUS$1 as compared to 80 in Papeete. We also enjoyed the shows, particularly the laser light shows and the acrobatic shows. We spent most evenings listening to the great Paul Roxy in the Mix piano bar. Read more