First time cruisers BIG expectations ! Having stayed in many of the world's largest and most luxurious hotels and destinations my husband 'succumbed' to my dream of a luxury cruise for my 50th birthday. He was reluctant to join in any 'Butlins on sea' package....he was SO wrong.

I would suggest a great game for the crossing...try to find a speck of dirt or a member of staff without a smile. You won't find one!

I must say we experienced the 'moaners' Please don't judge this trip by the likes of ' the purser was so rude' and the 'we waited 20 minutes for dinner' complaints. We met these people! If this happens to you and you get stuck with the professional moaners, remember you can change your dining table easily, the maitre D is expert with this problem. Read more