Booked this cruise as a party of 16 friends who cruise regularly - between us have cruised on Thompson (Marella), Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess and Silver Seas so quite a bit of cruise experience. As a couple we have had 3 previous Thompson cruises including the 2 Discovery ships and expected the same if not better quality of cruise. Unfortunately was distinctly average with real issues with both the itinerary and service on board.

Firstly the itinerary “Mediterranean Secrets” the secret was how poor some of the ports of call were! Distinct impression Marella cutting costs by docking at cheapest Med ports - Sete, France - think St Helens with sun. Most disappointing Porte Torres, Sardinia - had really looked forward to this, believe Sardinia a beautiful and exclusive island - to be honest Runcorn is more picturesque - opened curtains to be greeted by what looked like a cement factory. Whoever at Marella visited this port and deemed it suitable to dock a ship of near 2000 tourists needs their head feeling. Following bus ride through industrial docks dispatched to town which consisted of one main street with a church at the top of it. We were back on the boat within 2 hours as were most passengers - awful. Did enjoy Corsica and La Spezzia but overall itinerary poor and misrepresented by the company.

On board a mixed bag. Didn’t feel the refurbishment of the ship was as good as the Discovery vessels, ship look and felt worn. Decent cabin with large balcony keep spotlessly clean by our steward Roberto so no complaints there - nice shower and comfy bed. Lacked little touches like the nice toiletries or robes etc. Read more