Pacific Eden Review
Rating by category
Additional details
I got exactly what I was expecting and I think sometimes people have unrealistic expectations of cruising. We were on the Loyalty Islands cruise December 2015. We booked last minute and got a really good deal. We usually travel with a teenager but this time it was just the two of us. This ship is perfect for a relaxing couples cruise. Because it is smaller, there is less to do than on the larger ships. This suited my partner perfectly. Personally I like a bit more entertainment so prefer the larger ships but that is not meant as a negative.
Unlike others I liked the pantry. I don't understand complaints about lack of variety. If you are a fussy eater who doesn't like different cuisines, you might be limited but I found there was plenty to choose from and particularly liked being able to just have a sandwich. I found that the pantry stopped me from overeating. We ate in the MDR most nights and enjoyed it. Tried Angelo's. I didn't really rate it as anything special and actually preferred the dining room. I was glad there was no cover charge for it. People we met on the cruise enjoyed dragon lady but we couldn't get in.
We took the drinks package. I think it was borderline worth it for me but a good deal for my partner so that evened out. At least we know up front what our bill would be - saved us from the bill shock we got on our first cruise!
Cabin Review
We really liked the room. It was very close to the front on the port side. Hardly any passing traffic and so very quiet. Most noise we heard was from the lowering of the tenders. Room under the bed for the suitcases and lots of coat hangers. Shower over bath. Room was regularly cleaned and we had no complaints in that area.
Port Reviews
Mare
We paid the $19 each to go to the beach and yes it's a bit pricey for a bus ride but the swimming was beautiful and we hadn't been to this port before and we really enjoyed it.
Noumea
We have been here twice before so didn't do any excursions. Have previously done tchou tchou train which was good. Zodiac ride to duck island is not worth the charge but you can arrange privately for better deal. This time we just walked around the shops but next time I will do hop on hop off bus.
Lifou
This time I just swam on the beach and managed to see turtles which was awesome. Last time I did the snorkeling on the other side of the island and was definitely worth the $15 charge. The only reason I didn't do it this time is because my son was not there to go with and my partner doesn't swim but it was lovely swimming just on the beach.
Mystery Island
Again no tour as we have been here before but it is a nice place to walk around and explore and there was some really good snorkeling off the beach too, on the opposite side to where the tender takes you.