I chose this cruise because it was to be our first cruising experience and I wanted to get it absolutely right.I completely landed on my feet as you could choose no better company to look after you so well.The planning is second to none,and they genuinely are concerned about your welfare.The little touches that they add to the cruise are terrific and go a long way to the enjoyment of the port calls.You feel much safer when you realise that they always have someone placed at the back of the crowd to shepherd any stragglers, and they continualy take a count of the numbers which is doubly reassuring.Also you feel that you are on board a new ship,yes it is that well cared for. So all in all well done me for picking first time the pinnacle of cruising, but foremost of all my most grateful thanks to Emerald, well done!