As first time cruisers we weren't too sure what to expect but did a little research before hand and decided on Cosmopolitan Classics from Palma on the Discovery 1. As it was all inclusive it was a good deal. The ship itself needs a little TLC - bits of rust here and there and external handrails need sanding down and varnishing. The main public areas are excellent, very clean and well maintained. The Cabin we were allocated was a deluxe balcony on deck 7, couldn't be faulted. Lots of space great bed and a nice sized balcony. A fridge was a bonus too !. Yes as in other reviews the shower curtain is a pain but not too bad. Tea and coffee a nice touch. The steward Swapnil, was amazing. He really looked after us and kept the cabin spotless. Chocs on the pillow every night too. The food was great. We had breakfast in Islands each morning loads of choice and starts at 5.30 am. We ate lunch there too but main meals in 47 each night. We had a table for 2 on a couple of nights but chose to share on others and made some great new friends, so glad we did. The menu was lovely which changed nightly, great choice but small portions. The entertainment in Live Lounge and Venue were great, we didn't go to the Broadway Lounge so unable to comment on quality of shows. Lots of activities daily but again we did our own thing, so cant comment. The service throughout the ship was second to none, you only had to put your glass down empty and you were.approached by waiting staff. The AI is a little confusing at times and a list of what is included in Ai didn't appear until the Thursday of the cruise, by which point I am sure some people were charged for items not included in AI. Bottled water isnt included and is charged at £1.40 for a small bottle, at dinner if you want water ask for the jug or you'll get charged £2.

The excursions were good but quite costly at around £45 per person for a half day and then around £75 per person for a full day trip, this didn't include lunch. We did a few but couldn't get to Pisa as it was fully booked, so spent the day in Carrara ( not the port) which was really pretty a free due to the courtesy bus.

We would certainly cruise on the Discovery again, but not on this route as we've seen and done all we wanted to do. Great time and would certainly recommend.