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We loved the ship and the range of ages and degree of formality suited us (only 2 formal nights). We drove to Harwich, arriving at the time allocated to us and found the parking and embarkation very efficient. Our cabin was a good size with very good and imaginative storage and kept spotlessly clean by our excellent cabin attendant. We found all the staff very friendly, helpful and courteous and the standard of service was mainly good. We were not very lucky with the weather but we were not too bothered as there was so much to do in each port of call.
The food overall was good although not exceptional. It was often difficult to find a seat at busy times in The windjammer Restaurant but there was a good choice of food although some was a bit lukewarm. We were a little disappointed with the main dining room maybe as a result of Cruise Lines trying to please all people to attract a wide range of customers. We had asked for a table of 8/10 but were allocated a table of 6. On the first night, we were the only ones on the table which was a very disappointing start. For most other nights, there were 4 of us as the other couple (two brothers) only joined us for 1 night. We found this very disappointing and were surprised you were allowed to book a table for the whole cruise and only turn up on 1 night. We also sat next to the Captain's table for 10 which was only occupied on 1 night! We found the food and service to be good but not exceptional. We hardly saw the head waiter or Maitre D' during the whole cruise.
We did not find the theatre entertainment very inspiring apart from a visiting act 'Graffiti' which was wonderful. We also found the early show time of 7.00 p.m. for late diners a nuisance as it meant getting ready for dinner early. We really loved the violinist in The Centrum area.
As smoking was allowed in the casino, this became a bit of a no go area for us which was a shame.
We loved all the ports of call, especially St Petersburg which was the highlight for us, but were disappointed with the lack of communication from the Captain during the journey so missed some interesting sights en route. We were told in the theatre one night that we had already passed under a famous bridge which we had wanted to see! We were able to walk into each city centre apart from St Petersburg and Gothenburg. It is best to take some local currency in Denmark and Sweden, especially for refreshments as Euros are not accepted everywhere.
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