A bit of background: party of 6, me & DH (50s), brother & sis-in-law (50s) and my parents (active 79 & 83). All have cruised before - we have sailed with Cunard, Thomsons, P&O, Bro & sis only Thomsons and parents with a number of lines but never Thomsons.
We chose the Adriatic because of the itinerary & Thomsons because of the bike tour options and the price & flights were good for all of us.
We flew from Manchester, early flight and were on-board within 1 hour of landing. I liked the chilled juice & water available while we waited to check in, especially as it was very hot even at 10.15am.