Riviera Review
Rating by category
Additional details
First, we have been on ten O cruises (over 30 total) so there are grounds for a fair comparison and constructive criticism.
The cruise as a whole was disappointing and in many respects discouraging. As long-time fans of Oceania, we have always been amazed at the high quality service and the never-failing cheerfulness of the staff. Both aspects were sadly missing on this cruise. In fact, the service we experienced was unexceptional. In a number of instances, service was clearly unacceptable.
Wait staff in the Terrace Café was often unfriendly and sometimes downright surly. It was not unusual for us to sit for 10 minutes at a table without a staff member or floor manager coming by to ask if we wanted water, coffee or juice. We walked out of the Terrace several times at breakfast after we sat ignored while other tables with guests arriving after us received attentive service. It was not an uncommon sight in the Terrace to see dirty dishes and glasses sitting atop tables for an extended period.
Cabin Review
Concierge Level
The room and balcony are nice however the furniture and carpeting are dated and need replacement. The bathroom was fine but the shower is tight. Our toilet did not flush on several occasions. The in-cabin movie guide is hopeless - the daily schedule is left at the start of the cruise but there is no description or information available on board as to what the movies are about, who the actors are etc. Why waste time on the 90% of flicks you never heard of? The Concierge Lounge is not worth the upgrade/premium cost. Pastries and a coffee machine - which you can get at Baristas - and newspapers that guests unfortunately & selfishly remove from the lounge. Personally, I would not opt for the lounge as its an indoor room that has been converted and is occupied by elderly passengers who are either passed out asleep or coughing nonstop!
Port Reviews
Barcelona
Great port! Lots to see and do, great restaurants and a great walking city.
Cartagena (Spain)
small and little to offer
Malaga
Interesting city to walk around
Madeira (Funchal)
Been here before. Sleepy town, market was closed, rained all day. Old part of town is cobblestoned but not much charm.
Nassau
All the charm of a Greyhound bus terminal - nasty place.