Although we have cruised a couple of other times with different cruise lines, and we really should have known better than to take to much notice of the bad reviews, we were a touch apprehensive when holiday time arrived.The check in at Birmingham Airport was smooth and the flight on the new Dreamliner was ok with the exception of the meals which at best can only be described as filling.We arrived in Barbados on time,and were quickly shown onto buses which took us straight to the cruise terminal ( no waiting around for luggage and going through immigration etc ).The embarkation was quite quick and slick and we were on board in the cabin, and changed within 1/2 an hour.

The balcony cabin on Riviera deck aft was not enormous but lovely and clean and perfectly adequate for a 2 week cruise ,the walk in shower was large enough with an ever ready supply of hot water and plenty of clean towels and toiletries supplied.We spent the first full day on the beach at the Boatyard and had a very good day.We were allocated freedom dining in the Cinnamon restaurant and can honestly say we enjoyed every meal,we had a very good choice on the menu and always received first class service from the waiters.We breakfasted at the Saffron restraunt or in the Waterside Buffet and there was always seating available or we were seated straight away.

The entertainment from the Headliners and the various Solo artists , duos etc through to Tom O Connor were first class and i can honestly say that we enjoyed all the shows tremendously.A special mention to Tom O Conner who packed the theatre 4 times any delivered very funny shows without a swear word or rude joke. Ponta del Garda gave us the opportunity to visit the Crater Lakes and a Pineapple Plantation along with some beautiful gardens and was a welcome break during the atlantic crossing. Read more