My wife and I spent two days in Barcelona prior to our Mediterranean cruise on the Solstice. Our hotel, Monte Carlo Barcelona, was a fabulous hotel located on Las Ramblas and convenient to all the sights of Barcelona. After a short cab ride to the cruise port, we arrived at the port at 12:00 noon. Our embarkation was efficient. (of course, it had helped that we had already checked in online while we were still in the United States.) Within fifteen minutes we were on board the Solstice.

The Solstice was sleek and contemporary in design. Dodging past the vendors trying to sell beverage packages, spa packages and specialty restaurant reservations was an unpleasant but expected ritual for experienced cruisers. We proceeded to the upstairs buffet restaurant where there were great options for a lunch while we awaited an announcement that our staterooms were ready.

We had Aqua class accommodations which offered upgraded amenities in terms of dining, spa and in-room services. Our stateroom was spacious, bright and included a a large jet-spray shower. Daily Aqua class amenities included fresh fruit, flavored water and an afternoon delivery of canapes. We also received a welcome bottle of champagne. The best part of Aqua class, however, was Blu, a separate restaurant reserved solely for Aqua class cruisers. For the most part, the Blu experience was a positive one. The setting was beautiful and more intimate that the large main dining room. Menu choices were creative although portions were small ( a plus in terms of not overeating!) Read more