Having read many of the reviews of this cruise/ ship I feel I must redress the balance somewhat. This was our first long cruise and due to the inability to fly, our only way to get to Australia to visit family.

We boarded Arcadia with no problem and were soon on board- our first stop being in the Belvedere buffet for a very welcome drink while we waited for our luggage to be delivered to our cabin. We didn't have to wait long and were soon able to unpack. Our cabin steward was more than helpful and always willing to do anything we asked (& more).

The crew we encountered were all seemed very happy and were very visible around the ship - none more so than Captain Hashmi. We could not have asked for a more convivial Captain and crew. Read more