Were really looking forward to cruising with RCI, and realistic and not into complaining about everything for the sake of it. We enjoyed the many positives of the cruise, like Cruise Director Gordon who was just fantastic, the shows and entertainers good, embarkation excellent, port stays good, dining room lovely and staff in there friendly and attentive. Also the Captain who was very personable and communicated through interactive channel regularly.

However, our issue was that prior to boarding we had read this ship had norovirus and yet no precautions taken to prevent same when we boarded and sure enough, by day 3 myself, along with many other passengers, had come down with the dreaded virus. Medical centre was overrun with people trying to access treatment, I was confined to my cabin and missed a port stop (Week one). Week two, second bout of norovirus, again confined to cabin and missed port no 2. So many people on board with virus and whilst some attempt made at sanitising, elevator not attended to, nor chairs public areas. Captain and cruise director broadcasted there was an 'epidemic' in Australia responsible for the virus coming onto the ship - yet I have searched media and Australian government sites since returning and no mention of a gastric outbreak in Australia.

On last night my husband contracted norovirus and after vomiting profusely all night, attended medical centre who informed still required to disembark at allocated 6.30am time! After protesting (he was very sick), we were granted an hour to 'rest up' before being required to disembark still, as they were expecting other passengers coming on board for the new cruise! Read more