We cruised on VOTS from Shanghai to Kobe, Nagasaki and Jeju on 7 July 2012. Here is my experience. I am a Chinese. There was around 2000+ Chinese passengers in this cruise and was really amazing. There were many Chinese staff as well, including the cruise director, Fang.
Embarkation was in the new pier in Baoshan. It was too new and the air conditioning was yet to installed. It was really hot. Hundreds of passengers crowded together before the check-in counter. It was still in order, but it took me 30 minutes to go through the queue and the immigration, and was still regarded as acceptable, and would be better if there was air conditioning. The staff in immigration department using box of ice and a electric fan to lower down the room temperature in their office, very primitive for Shanghai's standard.
The VOTS was in good condition but a bit old fashion as it was built in 1999. It was well maintained older ship, particularly in public area. The Promenade, the main street for pub and shops, is very attractive. It was also used as party place after 10 pm one night, with very good atmosphere.
Clean room with aged sofa and toilet. The shower space clean but small. The balcony old fashioned. The bed comfortable, and lot of storage space.