Just returned from my E. Mediterranean cruise on the Spirit. I choose this cruise specifically for the ports. I flew into Rome two days early. I organized two shared shuttles with Civitavecchia Shuttle Express. They arrived on time both times.

The boarding process was quick and smooth. I thought the ship was fine, for me this is just a mode of transportation to get from port to the next. I've never been on any of the new mega ships. I actually like these smaller ships just fine.

The food in the MDR was not that great, went in there three times then decided to just stick with the buffet and ate at Shoguns twice which was great. The buffet will have themed nights like grill extravaganza, oriental, seafood, Mediterranean. The food was good, I think at this level of cruise that is what your going to get it's not gourmet. Read more