We chose this cruise as it fitted in with our annual vacation over the Christmas period and even though the weather was not great, we thought it would be good first-time cruise experience.

Embarkation/disembarkation was fairly painless and that applied to the onshore excursions too. Our cabin attendant, who was a pleasure to deal with, told us that we were the only couple on deck 5 with no children as we did ask about the banging going on from both sides at odd hours. Had we known the amount of children onboard, I doubt we would have gone on the cruise. Not meaning to sound like the grinch, but kids are allowed into all areas, which my wife and I both found unusual. From the various bars to the cigar room (active smoking) they were everywhere, even inside the casino.

The ship itself is incredible, the rooms were spacious and by and large the staff were pleasant. What did niggle me was when ordering a drink at a bar, a waiter would leap towards you to process the order as opposed to the barman doing it, as it would show towards their (the waiters') work-rate. There were only a few waiters who operated like this but it should not happen. Read more