My wife and I were making our annual visit to family in the UK, and this year decided on a leisurely return trip rather than our usual flight home. We had used frequent flier miles for our business class flight over so the comfortable sail home seemed an ideal way to wind up the visit. We used a car service from Barnet (just north of London) to the port, arriving at about 11:00 AM. After a few minutes wait, and a well-organized check-in process, we were on the ship before noon, and were delighted to find our cabin available (often not the case with other lines). Our bags wre delivered before 1:00PM, and we went to Kings Court for a light lunch. Altogether, the embarkation process was about the best we have experienced.
CABIN: We had a through-the-hull verandah, not quite as attractive as the usual (with a plexiglass barrier which lets in more light) but it had ample space and allowed us to be "on deck" while enjoying the privacy of our cabin. The cabin was spacious and well laid out, with ample storage space and a comfortable bed. Our cabin steward was very efficient and helpful.
DINING: We had early seating (6:00 PM)with three delightful couples (we always choose a large table and traditioal dining). The selections were good, the food was served hot and reasonably promptly. Our waiter seemed distant and did not appear to enjoy her work -- but provided good service. The wine steward was competent but seemed overwhelmed - it took too long for requested wines to come to the table. The only negative was that there was not the standard alternative dishes which most other lines seem to make available if the day'smenu does not entice.
6116 - just below promenade deck - was quiet -- I had feared we might hear joggers, but not a sound. Convenient location, a few feet from stairway B. Only complaint (hardly serious) was that pillows were too firm.