Embarkation - we steeled ourselves for a long wait as per our previous experiences with large ship embarkations at Sydney OPT.However, it was only a 45minute timeframe this time - we were in Concierge, so went to the top of the Q, but once inside the terminal, the usual schmozzle took over - the 'normal' line moved much quicker than the 'priority' line.We were aboard by 12.15 and headed to the Oceanview Cafe to wait for the cabin to be available.

Cabin - fabulous! A Concierge Class on deck 12 with an angled balcony - just loved it and spent a lot of time out there. cabin was very clean and everything was in tip top condition. Baggage arrived very quickly. The afternoon canapes are very tiny but we enjoyed them. cabin steward was very attentive and all stewards on this corridor were very friendly and would always greet you.

Public rooms and bars - so many to choose from and we didn't manage to have a drink in all of them - needed a few extra nights.we particularly liked the Molecular Bar- mmm, Ginger Mojito!There was never a problem finding somewhere to sit in any of the areas, except perhaps cafe Bacio at times which was extremely popular with 1500 Australians onboard who LOVE their coffee.Entertainment - shows were varied and interesting - we loved the violinist Jane Cho in particular - production shows were of excellent quality and the theatre itself is fabulous. Read more