As first time cruisers, we had nothing to compare this cruise to, and were unsure what exactly to expect.

We booked VF category, which meant we didn't know our cabin until about 2 weeks from departure. Room 5002 was just amazing. Right at the front of the ship, we had a larger than usual room for this category, and extra deck area as well. One window faced out to the front of the ship, next to the foredeck (which was not open to passengers except for two times), as well as our doors to the balcony. It is an accessible cabin, which means that the bathroom area has a "wet shower" and only one handbasin. We used the other shower over the bath so as not to end up with water all over the toilet. A curtain to protect the toilet area would be our only suggestion for the room. We were traveling with a group of 12, and there was plenty of room to entertain all in our room before dinner each night.

Dining in MDR - we enjoyed being seated together at adjoining tables, having booked the 8pm sitting. Service was just wonderful - our table attendant was friendly and developed a good rapport with our group. We did not feel that service was slow at all. Food choices were varied and interesting and most meals enjoyed - the salmon was the only disappointment, and desserts often didn't live up to expectations (but one really doesn't need dessert anyway!) Read more