This was our first cruise (although we have travelled extensively in 5*hotels worldwide both on business and pleasure) and were concerned about the appalling recent reviews ,thankfully our cruise was very enjoyable

1) Boarding was at 12pm for a 5pm departure so we arrived at 11.00 and were sitting in the Schooner bar by 11.15 , very impressive . We requested and were given a table for 2 which was great

2) Stateroom , I researched this carefully beforehand , we wanted a balcony and its was a close call between Junior suites on deck 8 or smaller rooms on deck 7 , the disadvantage of deck 8 was potential noise from above around swimming pools etc but we chose the JS 8036 which was right opposite the corridor to the lifts (less walking) and under the pool towels on the upper deck , noise was minimal , we would pick this cabin again . Read more