We've been back a week and I have to say we didn't want to leave the ship. As 1st time cruisers we really had no idea what to expect and were not disappointed in any way. There was a massive snarl up with the traffic coming into Southampton but being locals we could drive around it. Embarkation was a snip, no waiting around for hours, turn up, drop luggage off, check in, and on board inside 15 mins, better than airports. We had lunch in the Plaza (self service) which was nice and by the time we had finished our luggage was outside the cabin.

We chose a balcony cabin and were allocated C733 (starboard side) despite some people moaning about the size of cabins it was perfectly adequate for us and 4 suitcases which all fitted under the bed. There was loads of storage space and quite frankly we took too many clothes with us and didn't get to wear them all, a lesson for our next cruise. There was a free laundry on board which we used not as much as some but still quite often. The cabin was clean and airy and the balcony was big enough for the 2 of us.

We opted for silver service freedom dining in the Ligurian restaurant and made many friends in this way as we were not tied to one particular table. Service was exceptional and I cannot say anything negative about the waiting staff who were attentive and well drilled. The wine waiters got to know my wife's drink requirements within a couple of days which I have to say was pretty impressive, She eats very little and on the menu one day was a full trout on the bone, The waiter said don't worry madam I'll get you a smaller portion, along comes a fully boned fillet of trout, can't fault that kind of service.Our cabin steward Stanley was a wonder, nothing was too much trouble for him and his attention to detail was excellent. Read more