We chose this particular cruise because of the various unique ports. Well, we obviously did not do our homework. Portland was Weymouth, Seville was hours away, as were Pisa and Florence and Rome from the ports. The excursion prices were outrageous. We met people that had paid just under $100 for shore excursions to the port towns that were walking back to the ship as the excursions were mostly drop offs with long periods of time in between pick ups.

The ship is a selling machine. From the time you get on board you are constantly being barraged with announcements, mail, tents on tables and desks to buy excursions, photos, jewelry, specialty restaurant experiences, spa treatments etc. Even water was being sold as you exited the ship's gangways... for 10 to 20 times the price you would pay when you get into the town. We calculated that there was a Sommelier for every 4 tables at dinner time! They sold 8500 bottles of wine on our cruise alone!

The ship is beautiful. The rooms and common areas are bright and modern. The bathrooms have modern fixtures and ample room. Read more