This is a very late review, I just didn't get around to it when we came back last year. Now we are set to go again next month and reading all I can on the CC board, which are so helpful, it made me feel guilty for not making the time to do it earlier.

Our first cruise was a Christmas cruise from Melbourne to New Zealand on Dawn Princess. From the absolutely impressive express check in (dropped at the boat 11.45pm on board by 12, unpacked and eating lunch by 1pm) we loved it. The beautiful Christmas decorations, friendliness of everyone, it was a wonderland to us. We had splurged to get a balcony as there had been a big special going when we booked where you got a balcony for an ocean view price. We were on Riviera deck and loved just walking out of our cabin along to pools and gym.

We loved everything, the food, we were on first sitting, then went to a show which were outstanding to us, then we would wander on up to the buffet to see if there was "anything to eat". It was quite a joke as we had already eaten such superb meals. Read more