As an experienced cruiser, I've raved about the fantastic food served on cruise ships in the past. However, in past 2 years, along with the economy, cruise food has gone downhill. No escargot, lobster or crab was seen. And, for the first time I noticed chicken and mashed potato as a main course....hmmmm. I could understand this on perhaps a 3-4 day quickie cruise. On a 12 day Mediterranean Cruise I expected gourmet in the main dinning room. We tried paying extra for the private dinning areas but were disappointed there as well. Basically, steak or pasta. Neither are considered gourmet nor are they creative. They are basic American cuisine.

Also, I felt the entertainment was poor, another sign that cruising is not what it used to be. At every moment, the cruise line attempted to sell you something, upgrade, buy, buy, buy. I understand now that if I wanted gourmet food and spectacular entertainment I'll have to pay much, much more. Like, in the $6K per person range, before shore excursions, wine, and extra's, and only on exclusive ships. Not really what I wanted to do....

On a more positive note, the Cruise Director was fantastic, the ports of call were extraordinary and the staff everywhere were well trained and friendly.