Having sailed on the Golden Princess, we were expecting a similar standard. How disappointed we were. Most staff were again attentive but there were things that spoiled the cruise on many occasions. First the ship is in dire need of a full refit. Most of the furniture is tired and dirty, foam in the seats everywhere is worn out. Many places around the ship are showing extreme signs of wear and the spa and swimming pool design and surrounds make them dangerous places. Second, when tenders were used, only four were deployed making the whole process very convoluted, mass queuing was the order of the day at some ports.

Third, the food and beverage service was not anywhere near up to standard. Most cocktails seemed more like "mocktails". Much of the food was very bland. Even the Italian restaurant appeared to eschew garlic, tomato and basil! It was a challenge to challenge the taste buds.

Fourth, scholarship@sea was to have a digital photography course, I think it was about twelve days out before it began and then it was VERY expensive for what it was. Read more