We chose this cruise from one of the Emerald brochures, having explored the various places that we would be visiting, and could not have been more satisfied with our choice. From our first contact with the Emerald staff we were treated with courtesy, and embarkation from the buses that brought us from Bucharest down to the Emerald Dawn was efficient and welcoming. This ship is relatively new, and beautifully furnished throughout. The Lounge and the dining area are spacious, light and airy, and the public areas outside, i.e. the sundeck and balcony are well provided with chairs of various types, tables, and footrests. For the first two or three days of our stay the Lounge was free of the seemingly ubiquitous musak, and that was lovely, but after a couple of days it did appear - shame ! Our cabin had an integral balcony, and we were very pleasantly surprised to be upgraded to one with extra facilities (fresh fruit, a superb coffee machine); our beds were very comfortable, and every facility that we could wish for was provided. The cabin was kept spotlessly clean throughout our stay, and the only suggestion that we could make which would enhance a stay would be the provision of a handrail in the shower.

Dining on the ship, whether informally at breakfast and lunch or formally in the evening, was excellent, and the waiting staff and Maitre D ensured that our every need was met. Afternoon tea was provided, land that was so luscious that we gave it a miss, fearing for our waistlines ! We were very surprised indeed to be invited to the Captain's table for dinner - such a pleasure !

The swimming pool, and the calm area in which it is situated, was a wonderful addition to the experience, and although we did not visit this when it transformed into a cinema at night we did, one evening, relax there in the peaceful blue lighting. The entertainment on the ship was excellent, and the Cruise Director enhanced our holiday by the short talks that she gave before dinner each evening, highlighting the next days' activities, Every port and shore excursion, all of which were interesting and informative, was organised and managed in the most efficient manner, without, at any time, causing us to feel that we were being organised far too regimentally. The local guides were excellent and always enhanced our experiences to a great degree. Read more