I've only been on 2 cruises - both on the Navigator, and both leaving from Southampton so I have little to compare each to but I am impressed with both. Whilst I would now like to experience a different ship, I am keen to stay "loyal to Royal" but wouldn't consider a third cruise on Navigator to be a compromise. I also think the embarkation and disembarkation at Southampton is fantastic. It's a well oiled operation that runs so smoothly. It really does get the first day off to a great start. It's hassle free. Disembarkation is also very easy meaning the cruise is also rounded off in the same way it started, with the only disappointment being that you are leaving the ship!

The Navigator is a great ship. It's clean, it's glamourous, it's not too overwhelming for first time cruisers, and from what I read about the other ships, has a comfortable sense of familiarity for experienced RCL cruisers. We chose RCL in the first place as we were told by the travel agent it was the best cruise line for families. As I said earlier, I cannot compare RCL to any other cruise line but what I can say is that the staff are great with the kids. They are so friendly and treat them respectfully, without being patronising. My 12 year old was never made to feel like a 'kid', which he liked.

As it was our first ever cruise last year, I may have been caught up in the excitement of it all, but this year I probably had more of a critical eye. The ship itself was very clean and I like the way they make it very obvious that hand cleaning is very important for hygiene standards. Our cabin (deck 9, balcony), was larger than I expected but was a little tired in places, although not enough to bother me. It was just a couple of worn corners of the cabinets and the creaking of the wardrobe - actually, now I write those niggles down they seem petty, so overall I guess I was pretty happy with the cabin! Read more