Two years ago we traveled on Silversea from Venice to Rome. Everything about that cruise was special. Consequently, this cruise from New York to Barbados was a big disappointment.

First, while the staff was trying hard to do a good job, only one or two knew how to be exceptional. If I hadn't had the great service 2 years before, I probably wouldn't have made such a negative comparison because there was truly nothing bad about the service except from the maître de in La Terraza who was never friendly or very prompt in acknowledging you.

Second, the first was good but not at all special. The quality and variety of servings was very good but the chef really needs to learn how to season the food. It was bland, bland, bland. Even perfectly prepared, tender, medium-rare rack of lamb was only so-so. An exception was a pesto sauce that was extremely flavorful. Read more