We chose this cruise as we wanted to visit the Fjords and the Columbus sailed from Tilbury, which was convenient. We were a little anxious about the ship, having read some previous negative reviews and never having cruised before. We needn't have worried. Embarkation and disembarkation were smooth and well organised, happening ahead of time. The ship was clean and the staff friendly and well organised. The public areas were smart. The cabins and corridors were a little tired, with dubious art work but the beds were comfy, the shower decent and the picture window had a window sill wide enough to sit in to take in the view. The food was excellent, albeit breakfast was repetitive. You could have waiter served breakfast, lunch and dinner, or opt for the buffet style restaurant. Choose the "Japanese" end for a less canteen style atmosphere and the further away from the food you go the quieter you'll find it. The Waterfront restaurant served well presented and tasty food, with the fish highly recommended. The early sitting is a bit early at 5.45 and we chose to miss the Captains cocktails preceding it as we didn't want to miss the scenery by going in to change. The entertainment was a bit hit and miss but quite frankly we were there to enjoy the views and would take blankets and sit on the rear deck until night fall. We did 2 shore excursions which were competitively priced when compared to organising independently. These were sea kayaking in Eidford and the Loen lake trip: both well worth doing. The weather was kind in Skjolden, so we were happy walking. We did not enjoy Bergen as there were 2 other ships in and it was very busy: but that is not the fault of the Columbus! We would use Columbus again, if it was going to the places we wanted to see.