We chose this cruise as we needed a holiday, we wanted to go snorkeling and it looked to be value for money. Well the cruise met all our expectations. The embarkation was smooth and quick, the cabin spacious and very comfortable. The staff was enthusiastic, friendly and extremely conscientious. Meals were excellent, breakfast at the Sapphire buffet, lunch in Windjammer, both buffets had a wide choice, we always ate our main meal in the Sapphire Dining room which also has wide choice, the menu changing daily. We were originally down for the late sitting, when we boarded we approached the concierge who changed us to the earlier sitting. We could also grab a coffee and snack on the Promenade whenever we wanted. The shows were great there was quite a variety, Singers and Dancers, Magician, Hypnotist, there was also an Ice show, which you shouldn't miss. The highlight were Sebastian and Amanda Champion Ball room dancers so talented, we also attended some of their dance classes. There were also Parties on the Promenade deck, and the Parade!

On cruise days we used the gym, power walked the decks, that essential 10000 steps. Used the pool and hot tubs. Attended the Meet and Mingle, met a couple from the US and won a Bootle of wine. Went to trivia, read, watched sunsets and looked at the stars.

The highlight for us were the ports where we had beautiful, windless days. In Noumea, where we berthed, we purchased a Lyvia day bus pass for $12 each, it saved time and effort in working out the local buses. We caught the bus to Bai des Citrons, the bus driver recommend 2 places for snorkeling, we chose the 2nd spot, our first call was to find coffee (I'm not fond of Starbucks coffee). Spent a bit of time there using the internet and change room. We found the snorkeling pretty good, lots of fish and coral, beautiful colours and many varieties of both. A local mentioned there was a similar area on the other side of the bay. We easily caught the bus, stopping of at the morning Market. It was shutting down, but still an amazing display of local produce and the usual tourist booths. Caught the next bus quickly, wandered up to the Place dear Cocotiers and found an ce cream, not much was open in town as it was Sunday. Read more