Embarkation was very quick and efficient and not overcrowded as people start their cruise at each port the cruise stops at, so 5000 people were not trying to get on the boat all at once, which was great. Welcome was luke warm, from check in staff and onboard security staff. If you expect a big smile and a ' Welcome on Board' then this was definitely missing ( was the same everytime we got on and off boat)

First impressions....boat is very large, impressive and brand new, extremely clean. Getting to our cabins was easy and we were very happy with them, very well located away from lifts and any noisy bars, restaurants or public areas.

We decided to go the deck 8 buffet for lunch. It is extremely busy, chaotic and not the best dining experience although it is good that you can take you food outside to one of the many outdoor areas on this boat. There was a wide variety of food and as with many buffets quality varied....very good freshly made thin pizza, large joints of meat they would cut infront of you, also excellent salad bar. Staff in the buffet , both counter and bar staff were not the smiliest or friendliest encountered onboard but I can sympathise having to deal with the hordes of rude customers. The smaller buffet on the top deck by the pool is mildly better . Best advise go early and stay well clear of the horrible hamburgers Read more