This was truly the trip of a lifetime. I really appreciated everyones input and suggestions regarding tours, etc. We spent 3 weeks away. The first 10 days going to Venice, Florence and finally Rome. We stayed in an apartment on Campo di Fiore in Rome as we were there for four days. I arranged 3 vans from Stefano at Rome cabs to transport the 10 of us and another 8 people that we met on cruise critic. Can't say enough about Rome cabs as they were prompt, professional and answered many emails promptly. It cost 25 euros a piece to transport to Civitavecchia. We left around 11:15 and arrive 12:30ish. We were able to go aboard the ship right away. The line was short and embarkation went smoothly. What a beautiful ship!!!!!! They wheeled my mom up to the Oceanview Cafe for a wonderful lunch. We were then able to explore the boat. Once we arrived back into our balcony room, the luggage was already there. The room was narrow, but spacious. The balcony had two chairs and a table and lots of leg room. We spent alot of time there. The bathroom was the best I've seen on a ship. I also thought the staff, Paul our waiter, Ebra, his assistant and Miquel our steward were excellent always looking for ways to help us. My husband got sick one day and even the Matre D called to make sure he had everything. Wow.
The Ports
In Sicily, 8 of us had a private tour with a Sicilian nicknamed Mimo from Sicily Life. He was wonderful. He drove us out to Mt. Etna were we explored for awhile and then to Taorimina where we had lunch and explored for about an hour or so. He also drove us around Messina to show us the highlights. We left around 10 and got back around 5. Cost was 420 for the 8 of us.
Cabin narrow, but long Great bathroom Good storage