After weaving your way through the myriad of COVID questions, such as"Have you been exposed to COVID in the last 14 days?" (Like I'm really going to say yes.) You finally reach the gangway and are on board the Explorer. Finally, you see the incredible artwork, the beautiful common areas and with the welcome aboard glass of champagne in your hand, there is only one question you want to ask: "Which way to the buffet?" The food on Explorer is exceptional, especially at Chartreuse and Pacific Rim, but every meal was terrific. If you haven't yet had the opportunity to take a small ship, six-star cruise they are fantastic. The passengers tend to be older, college-educated professionals, that are affluent and more interested in an educational and cultural experience than ziplining, etc.

Now the important stuff:

1. SERVICE: This is what seperates a six-star cruise from the others; the level of service. The service was attentive and enthusiastic, though it seemed much of the staff was still training. In the post-COVID cruise world this is very likely. There seemed to be a shortage of bartenders as the drink service was slow. Overall, service was very good. Read more