The view from the 'pod' illustrated the worst thing about the cruise which was that from up high the upper deck looked like Benidorm on a bad day... this ship has huge amounts going for it (as below) but i think we had 4,500 passengers on board (?) - with 3,500 it would a paradise at sea. Any search for a comfy seat in the sun was 1 star not 5 experience. Horrible really - never even went near a pool in 2 weeks. How they thought they'd get away with the numbers I've no idea... you'd think they'd never designed a cruise ship before! (Though the 2 70 area especially (and others) superb - a reminder that they have designed before and very well)

It also felt like it had filled up late with (Brits especially) taking advantage of cheap last minute offers ... and though I didn't see a single issue re bad behaviour it really didn't make for a 'posh cruise' vibe. Those that like to dress for dinner etc ... well have spoken below.

On the plus side entertainment options were excellent and the food too considering how many they were catering for. Booking in was a disaster because of the failed bridge and computer glitches proliferated but queuing was never too bad (except for getting back on at Lisbon!) ... and service was always with a smile. (Cabin staff especially friendly). The ports of call (other than "Rome" and Gibraltar) really lovely... Cadiz and Lisbon esp gorgeous. Read more