I chose this cruise as it fitted in with school holidays and it was planned as a treat for my grandchildren. I booked a family cabin for my 2 granddaughters and myself and a separate cabin for my son - very expensive as charged full cost although obviously only half use of facilities and food. The family cabin was very cramped with uncomfortable beds. My son had to move cabins twice because of excessive machinery noise during the night. However, the cabin staff were fine.

There was very little in the way of entertainment or activities - fortunately the children were happy to spend time in the very small swimming pool.

The major problem was the food. I had notified when booking that we had dietary requirements and was assured this would not be a problem - I checked this again a few days before sailing. We decided to eat in the buffet as this would enable us to choose suitable food. In general the food was very limited in variety with the same salads and deserts everyday. I found the vegetarian selection both unappetising in appearance and unpleasant to eat - particularly when I found chicken in what was labelled a gluten free/vegan dish. The serving staff were unable to tell us what was in the dishes with the result that my granddaughter and I were very unwell and I eventually ate rice (when edible) and french fries as I felt these should be safe. The worst event was when my granddaughters ordered steamed dumplings (a favourite) and waited well over an hour for these as the cook didn't know how to cook them: when they finally arrived they were uncooked and inedible. I cannot understand why they were on the menu if not actually available. No gluten free rolls or savoury biscuits were available, nor pasta or pizza - all readily available in supermarkets. The cakes in the book room were fine and so was the afternoon tea so I am not sure why the same quality was not available in the buffet. The servings were often small - difficult to fill up hungry teenagers. We were made to feel a nuisance. Read more