First time on smaller "boutique" ship after "floating high-rise". We booked a suite on top deck (8), which is about £500 each more than a balcony stateroom and was pleasantly spacious with a well-appointed bathroom and plenty of hanging space. However, having seen a balcony stateroom on Deck 7 I don't think we got full value from the suite/Butler/facilities - our fault!
Our co-cruisers were exactly what we had hoped for - mixed age group of regular travellers with whose company we enjoyed. Wine was complimentary and changed day-to-day, always of good quality. Purchased drinks included gratuity so no nasty shock of 15% being added onto bill.
The ship was immaculate throughout and the staff were all courteous and attentive. The first evening there was a "Cruise Critic" reception and the Hotel Director (Philip Herbert) seemed genuinely to want to know our opinions and how to improve the ship service, so all here was given to them whilst on-board. With the current concerns about false endorsements on Tripadvisor this is a good idea.
Suite 8050 on top deck close to rear stairwell. Spacious and well appointed with bath/shower over and lots of hanging space. Comfortable for 6 to sit round in evening for pre-dinner drinks