Renaissance Cruises operated eight little ships with unglamorous names (R1 to R8). Renaissance went bankrupt approximately ten years ago, when the former P&O Princess Group purchased R3 and R4. These ships became "Pacific Princess" and "Tahitian Princess" (now renamed "Ocean Princess"). The Group also acquired R8, which sailed from the UK as "Minerva II". R8 subsequently joined Princess Cruises as "Royal Princess", and has now returned to the P&O fleet as "Adonia".

At this stage, I must admit to bias. I love the R-class vessels, having enjoyed cruises on Pacific Princess (R3), Tahitian / Ocean Princess (R4), Azamara Journey (R6), Azamara Quest (R7) and Royal Princess / P&O Adonia (R8). These little ships can enter smaller ports and are ideal for "special" or "exotic" itineraries. Because they carry no more than 700 passengers, they offer a more intimate cruising experience. However, they cannot provide the same range of facilities as the latest "mega-liners".

Quality is more important than size and I am happy to enjoy low-key entertainment in a cabaret lounge, as opposed to lavish shows in a glitzy theatre. I do not mind that the ships have only one main restaurant with fixed sittings (plus a self-service buffet and two speciality restaurants) -â€" and the bathrooms are rather small. The cruise itinerary, service and value for money are more important aspects. Read more