Family who had sailed with this ship suggested this itinerary and we booked very late in a category gty- all that was available. Embarkation was smooth, and we were met at the top of the gangway by the Captain, a who welcomed us o board personally, a nice touch. The cabin was comfortable enough with usual ship amenities, although the beds were very firm. The key to the safe which was available from the front desk required a refundable deposit of 25 GBP. and the perforated key card to our cabin had the cabin number on it, which struck us as odd. However it was explained to us that if lost and then found, the cabin number made it easier to return the card to us. We were also given a swipe card for departing and returning security.

Our cabin was located opposite the chief housekeepers office, so that meant on occasion the passage was really crowded with staff gathering for instruction, but it also meant that for any problem we simply stepped across the passage and asked for assistance, which was attended to instantly.

First, the good stuff. The food on this ship was the best we have ever encountered at sea. Lots of variety, portions tasty but not too large. There were two soups every lunch, one creamy, one clear. Always wonderful. We always ate breakfast and lunch on the verandah outside the Verandah Buffet Restaurant, and spent much free time there as it was cool and relatively quiet. Read more