Embarkation: Port of Civitavecchia is located about 3-4 miles from the train station. Took the train from Rome then walked about ½ mile on a paved path to the port entrance, you then board a shuttle to the ship/check-in. You drop off your luggage at the check-in entrance (NOT where you get on the shuttle e bus), have the ONE page pre cruise documents printed and you are good to go.

Cabins: I had an Inside promenade view cabin on deck #6, actually the curtains were not often drawn as it affected privacy. Overall I was happy: a small fridge; a separate his/her's closet and an easy to use room safe and TV. TV had limited programming - you are able to view your on board account, make excursion reservations and view the daily dinning menu. I have one complaint: too many ship announcements at odd times.

Dining/Food: I pre-paid gratuities, "My Time Dinning/MTD" which is the ONLY way to go. MTD went very smooth (you can choose your own dining time) and the maitre desk was extremely accommodating to changes. I never waited for a table and was seated immediately I even was seated at the requested table. I ate all my evening meals in the main dining room, overall food quality, taste and presentation "I THINK" was average, however, the service was SUPERB! When not in port, I ate all my breakfast and lunch meals in the main dining room and generally had a very good experience; the lunch salad bar in the dining room is terrific. I went to the Windjammer twice and in my opinion the Windjammer cafe food was awful! The wine package deal is much overpriced for the quality for the quality of wines but you are a captive audience. Read more