We took this Repositioning Cruise last year and loved the itinerary and the older crowd, so we took it again this year..We had a balcony room and got the free prepaid service charges and ultimate beverage package and we paid the 18% gratuities for the drink package up front We spent very little on board so our on board account was very small at the end.

The Ship has a new look now and for the most part the changes were an improvement. Didn't care for the wine bar on deck 7, not a wine drinker, and it seemed to be empty most of the time unless there was a social event taking place there, Otherwise it was probably a quiet place to sit and relax. They turned the internet room that used to be on deck 9 into a nice lounge overlooking the Atrium, perfect for relaxing and enjoying Jose and Patty's nightly performances in the atrium. Below that on deck 8 is O'Sheehan's Pub that is open 24 hrs a day. The food was decent, the Reuben sandwich was excellent there. This also overlooks the atrium staircase where Jose and Patty entertain at night. Love that they added a special area off to the side in the atrium on deck 7 for the jewelry specials etc, No more clogging up the main atrium floor selling items. The Photography Shop has been brought into the digital age where you can look for your the photos by using your key card. There is a small internet area there too. The lounge on deck 7 aft was nicely redone.

We didn't eat at the specialty restaurants at all. The complimentary food at Venetian dining room and Garden Cafe was very good for the most part and we did not go hungry at all. Loved the variety of soups each night at the Venetian and enjoyed all meals except the pork medallions which were overcooked and tough. Had to opt for Shrimp Jambalaya instead which was very good. Prime rib was excellent. Oasis Pool area is very nicely redone. Spent time in the pool and hot tubs which was crowded at times but less so at other times. Read more