We are a couple in our early 60s, having just recently retired. We embrace everything about cruising – meeting like-minded people, the drinks, the food, live music/shows, sightseeing on and off the ship, activities on offer etc etc, all from the convenience of a short walk from your cabin. This was our first cruise since lockdowns, and easing back with a short 4 night voyage between Melbourne and Kangaroo Island, and return.

Embarkment was quick and easy. We had followed all the VeriFLY requirements (upload photos, health declarations, vaccination certificates) however the check in officer did insist we also produce hard copies of our vaccination certificates. Luckily, we had brought these along as well.

We were aware that there were no anytime dining options for the restaurants, so we headed straight to the venue to book in dining times for the first three nights, Angelos, Dragon Lady and Waterfront. Earliest time available when we could book was 7 pm (we didn’t embark until 2 pm). None of the speciality restaurants were open for our voyage due to low staff numbers. Read more