The first day can be a little rough after the airports, and transportation to the dock and then the cattle call of boarding and standing in line for what seemed like forever, and then you are finally on board, only to be called for the muster drill. I know this is an important part of the orientation but once again standing in straight rows on the deck for the better part of a half hour was starting to cause considerable discomfort. That being said, the rest of the journey made up for that 1st day.

The food was good in the main dining room, and of course the more causal Windjammer always had a big selection. The specialty restaurants (Portofino & Chops) were excellent.

The cabin steward was great. Purchased a small Wifi package to keep in touch with people back home. TIP - you get faster connect speeds during the off-hours. Most of the ships personnel were courteous. Purchased several excursions from R.C. and they were good, for a glimpse of the cities. You really have to spend more time in the popular destinations like Rome, Florence, where there is so much to see. Read more