We chose to go on this cruise (our very first cruise) because it was advertised as an Irish music cruise to Alaska promoted by Gertrude Byrne. We expected, from the title of the cruise, to be treated to true Irish music, along the lines of We Banjo Three and other types of traditional Irish sounds. What we got was primarily American country music sung by Irish bands. We are not fans of most American country music. There were a few exceptions to the rule, of course, and we loved Nathan Carter and Celtic Thunder. We also loved Rachel James who has an incredibly powerful voice. But, overall, disappointed in the type and quality of the music. Communication prior to the cruise was non-existent as far as what was going to happen when and what the schedule would be. We had no idea what was going to happen. The boarding process was confusing for first timers with no direction, no signs, no help as to what to do next so we just got in a long line and hoped for the best. Once on the ship there was still no direction until finally my husband pulled a staff member aside and then we found out what was going on.

So the beginning of the cruise was just confusing. Once we set sail, however, we received daily pamphlets with the schedule for the entire day. The staff changed the rugs in the elevators to show the current day which was a big help because once at sea who knows what day it is! The staff on the ship were all just stellar. Laundry service was exceptional. The two gentlemen assigned to our cabin were the best! I hope they are paid well and treated well because they were all just wonderful and accommodating.

There is so much food! We ate in the dining room and in the Lido. We visited the Crows Nest Coffee Bar many times. Food was good but I would not call it exceptional. Also, I was assured prior to the cruise that there would be plenty of options for my vegan diet which was flatly untrue. There were a few options, but very few, so that was disappointing. None of the desserts were vegan except for Sorbet. Unacceptable. Also, I did not like being assigned to the same table for dinner every night with the same people. It would have been nice to have been seated with different people throughout the cruise. Read more