EMBARKATION:  This was a dream.  We took a taxi from central Stockholm where we had been for 2 nights.  We arrived around 12:15 and they were already boarding.  Before we got all out of the taxi, our bags were whisked away for us.  We were directed inside, filled out our medical questionnaires (for H1N1) and stepped up to check-in with no line or wait.  Within a few minutes we were stepping onto the ship and at the Windjammer for lunch.

SHIP:  Well decorated and simply laid out.  The public rooms were attractive and clean.  There were always enough chairs but they were SO close together that we were constantly squeezing between them.

FOOD and DRINK:  We ate in the dining room for most breakfasts and dinners.  The food was consistently good and well presented.   The kids were given a children's menu which had the standard fare, but also offered catch of the day, steak etc.  My daughter has a more grown up palate so always wanted to get the fish and ordered her appetizer off the adult menu.  This was never a problem and was even able to get 2 shrimp cocktails when asked.  The menus for adults were different nightly and based on a theme...Italian, Baltic, etc.  We were never pressured into bottled water and after the first night it was never mentioned again.  The same was for wine and alcohol.  It was available but never pushed on us.  The Windjammer had excellent breakfast buffets and lunches with loads of interesting options including a carving station, international foods and wrap sandwiches, but we found the one dinner we ate there disappointing.  The coffee on ship was always available but inconsistent in quality.  Lemonade, Iced Tea and tap water were also readily available.  Our kids enjoyed the soft-serve Ice Cream machine which was always on.  The Solarium also had burgers, hot dogs, Pizza and fries always available which was great! Read more