We chose this particular cruise based on the dates we could travel easily. It was our first and it was fabulous. Embarkation was easy as can be. Our taxi was met by crew who took our luggage which magically appeared in our cabin. We traveled with my parents and we all wondered how our luggage got there... they checked off our names and we got on the ship and joined a cocktail party. The crew works nonstop and is always there to make your cruise the best it can be. The camaraderie amongst them is unmistakeable but not to the exclusion of the guests. You are quickly made to feel special and part of the AMA family. Our cruise director was Dejan Stancic who is very fun and while attending to many details is always smiling. He learns your name quickly and his announcements "Good morning my dear ladies and gentlemen" are both fun and informative. Sylvia, the hotel manager was responsible for most personnel it seemed and she was constantly checking on service and housekeeping in a firm, authoritative yet friendly manner. She's also a captain and it shows. Henk K was our captain and he too mingled from time to time as well. The bartenders and servers were so friendly, it felt like we were losing friends at the cruise end. These folks work 24/7 on back to back cruises and we never felt they were stressed or anything but friendly and kind. It's remarkable really. The cabins are laid out well with plenty of space for your belongings. They clean them daily and do turn down service, provide a daily planner and sometimes gifts! The tours were many and varied to match many wishes and the food was fantastic. It seemed as if there was some kind of meal or tea or snack available at all times. I'd go on another AMA cruise in a heartbeat. If I could figure out which one Dejan was on, I'd choose one of those. He's special. I'm not sure how he kept his mood up but he was always smiling and helpful while juggling many tours and groups. This is a great cruise line...looking forward to returning.