This was my first cruise (aside from trans-Atlantics when I was very small) and it has set a very high standard for following cruises. Embarkation was a little confusing for us; numbers are handed out in the terminal, but not explained. After trying to get through security, we found out you have to wait until your number is called before proceeding. The numbers were just being called out in a normal tone of voice by staff which was difficult to hear in a large building filled with weary travelers. My friend and I were lucky (I found out later), as we were directed to the Vista dining room for lunch. Had a marvelous lunch in a nearly empty dining room. Others in our party were directed to the Lido. It seemed random, so I think one could just go to the Vista and forego the crowds at the Lido.

We had an aft verandah cabin which was compact but nice. Our room steward Budi was there immediately to introduce himself. He kept our cabin clean and tidy and of course surprised us each evening with new towel animals and CHOCOLATE.

The food was superb. We ate all our evening meals in the Vista dining room. Our head waiter Muhlis' motto was anything is possible. Out of 10 complete dinners, there was only one thing, a dessert, that I didn't like, and Mu promptly brought me something else. The rest of our dining staff gave impeccable service with a very friendly and helpful attitude. Lunches were mainly on shore, but the at sea days we ate in the Lido and enjoyed that as well. Breakfast was 10 glorious days of room service and the most delicious coffee I've had in a "hotel". Read more