Unfortunately, we were very disappointed with our Scandinavian cruise in May, 2010. We did not mind the embarkation chaos at Southampton as the ship had been infected with a virus the week previous; we understood. However, when we saw all the children queueing and running around, our hearts sank. We were not informed this was to be a family cruise - we just wouldn't have booked.

Once aboard we were even more disillusioned to find the ship looking more than a little 'tired'. And on deck, yes, there was a place to escape the noise - for a hefty daily fee. Excuse me, but why should we pay for peace and quiet at sea! And this was not the only 'hidden extra' we were expected to pay. This has never arisen in any other cruise we've ever taken.

Neither have we ever been subjected to such low level entertainment. Although one or two entertainment acts were good, onboard amusement was mostly of the holiday camp variety, using mediochre talent. Read more