The thing to remember is that this is an Italian ship. Although it departed from Miami, it is an Italian ship. Most the passengers were Italian followed by French and Spanish with the number of Americans far behind. Everything was in five languages: first Italian, then english followed by French, German and Spanish. Imagine the safety drill – repeated five times. When it was over,the two minute two minute wrap up comments took nearly ten minutes to repeat in each language. This goes on and on.

The ship is relatively new and beautifully appointed. The cabins are nicely appointed and ample size. King size beds can be divided into doubles. The toilet is turned at an angle, giving the bathroom more useable room. A safe was included in the room. The balcony was probably the largest we have had.

Dining was interesting. The breakfast selection was perhaps a little more limited than previous cruises although an omelet station was available. Dinner was a different experience. There are two dinner seatings – an early and a late. Remember,this is an Italian ship and late dining means really late – 9:15. The menu choices are presented in typical Italian fashion. Antipasta first, followed by a serving of pasta, then the entrée. The salad is last, just before desert. It is after all,an Italian ship. Most ships have carving stations with ham, beef or turkey; however, this ship. Had a carving station with octopus! Read more