We chose this cruise based on the itinerary. 11 ports and finishing up in New York City. We were going to visit our daughter in Virginia after the cruise. We spent three nights in Rome. Weather was fabulous, however many Italians were on vacation for the all saints break. Rome consequently it was very very crowded. We still enjoyed it and explored areas we have not visited before. Boarding the ship was easy. We were shown to the interior room that I had booked. It was difficult to find. A lot of walking! Small room and felt claustrophobic . The next day we went up to guest services and asked if we could pay for a balcony room. So happy we did. The room was much larger than having a balcony with a view made a big difference. I knew we wouldn’t be using it a lot if the weather wasn’t good. I checked the weather and for the 11 ports it look like nice weather. The pricing however was windy and cool. Did not use the balcony as much.

The itineraries included several ports. None were new for me except for Alicante. I was pleasantly surprised many people at the beach and the market was fabulous. I would return to Alicante. Sailing in and out of the towns on the balcony prove to be worth it. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets. We missed one port In the Azores because of foul weather. The captain took refuge behind Ponta Delgado for the day. A little disappointed since this was going to be a new port for me. Personally I love Ponta Delgado, the scenery is very green the pineapple is delicious and if you can get a good steak make sure you try it.

The food on the ship was good to very good. I had been on previous and seal bruises and I don’t recall the food being as good. We ate breakfast every day in the dining room. The personnel Was happy to make every wish granted. I like the white tablecloth’s the big white plates. We tried for specialty restaurants. My favorite was Cagney’s and food republic. Modern o not so good and Bistro could be better. Most of the nights we ate in the Manhattan dining room. Never a problem to get a table. Of course the ship was half full. wait staff was very nice and always cheerful with a big smile on their face. The menu was varied. Some things naturally were better than others but they would always happily change for you. The music in the room being live was a plus. Some people were dancing. Dinner was a highlight for us. Before dinner we would proceed to the bar in the atrium once again the bartenders were very cheery and very helpful in finding a drink that you would like. They were there to please and made wonderful drinks. Hint you could ask for more alcohol. Did not mind paying the tips or giving extra tips at the end of the trip. They deserved it Read more