As a background we have cruised with RCCL 7 times previously, on all of the Freedom class ships plus Oasis, Allure and Anthem. We have also cruised with NCL on Getaway, Breakaway and Epic. We booked this cruise back in summer 2015, based principally on the Southern Caribbean itinerary which we had never done – and incidentally was fantastic! Having kept an eye on the (mostly poor) reviews since booking, plus the fact this was the oldest and technically smallest ship our extended family of seven (ages 19-72) had ever been on, I was just a little concerned about what we would encounter. I needn’t have worried. We had a fabulous time, possibly one of our best cruises ever. To the multiple reviewers who state this ship is “showing it’s age”, what exactly do you expect from a ship built in 2002 ??? In my opinion The Navigator looks fantastic for her age. Sure, if I got down on my hands and knees with a magnifying glass I might spot a few rust spots on the balcony door or a small carpet stain here and there, but seriously if that’s what offends you when going on a well deserved holiday, then I feel sorry for you. The public rooms all looked great, the Royal Promenade no different to any I’ve seen previously and our cabins were just fine, all 4 of them. The crew were all welcoming, friendly and efficient notably Aladdin in the R bar and O’Neal our drinks waiter at dinner – top guys both of them. I guess one common complaint I can empathise with was the standard of food in the MDR. To be fair it was mostly OK, though with a few shockers along the way - but on the other hand especially good on New Year’s Eve. Giovanni’s and Izumi were both enjoyable although avoid the scallops – chewy and tasteless. Windjammer always fine in our opinion. The casino was unbearable at times smoke wise, but I guess a function of it being smaller than most. We used it occasionally but not for long. Internet worked just fine – we bought one package and alternated users as and when required, easy. The ship had been beautifully decorated for Christmas and the effort made by the whole crew on New Year’s Eve in the dining room and on the Royal Promenade will live long in the memory. Overall we had a fantastic Christmas and New Year aboard the Navigator, and to my own surprise I will now always have a soft spot for this ship. Sadly, I suspect many will still continue to find nitpicking faults with her, but everything is there for you to have a great time, which is surely what a holiday is all about …..