We too were on the second cruise from Cienfuegos Cuba to the Cayman islands and back, as was the previous reviewer. However, we rate the cruise more positively than he did. There were indeed teething problems, but nowhere near as bad as the previous (first) week, when the ship ran aground due to incorrect sea charts. A problem for some with these cruises is the departure port on the south side of Cuba, involving an expensive and long taxi or bus transfer from Havana or Varadero. (We took the excellent Viazul bus for USD16).

I agree with the criticism that the itinerary and excursions had not been properly researched and prepared, leaving the crew to cope with many questions and some complaints.The crew were indeed fantastic in finding ad hoc solutions - e.g. the customs and immigration formalities, and the transfer to the shore. Instead of Cayo Blanco where it was not possible to land, a day at sea with swimming off the boat and water sports was organised - however no water skiing and poor snorkeling. We moored off Playa Ancon (20 Cuban immigration officials to welcome us!) to visit Trinidad - a taxi ride in a 1939 Ford for 10CUC. The excursion offered seemed very expensive in comparison. Caymen Brac replaced Little Caymen due to shallow water but there was little to do or see ashore, and poor snorkeling. We visited Georgetown, Grand Caymen as planned where 3 giant cruise ships moored and filled the local beaches with fun seeking Americans. The excursions were rather over regimented The last two days were visits to Cayo Largo (the only day with poor weather) and Cayo Rico, a lovely little island where we had the beach almost to ourselves with an excellent beach bbq. The tender rides of 45 minutes were inevitable but acceptable.

The food on board was as always excellent, hot, served at the same time for a whole table and the wines good value..Considering the limited galley space a remarkable achievement. The dining room is a little cramped with a full complement of passengers, but the open dining and opportunity to sit where and with whom one wanted was a plus point. Read more