The staff was outstanding with great people skills. We were upgraded to a French balcony, which we loved. We think we liked it better than either a full balcony, as we could lie on the bed and have the pocket glass wall door totally open, breeze blowing into the room, and watch the scenery.
The excursions were extremely well organized and without hassle. There were more options that we wanted than we were able to take. Generally, the cruise guides were outstanding. It was amazing that there was no additional charges for the excursions.
I loved that we were not "nickel and dimed" to death on the cruise. There was never a mention of money until the end of the cruise, concerning tips. This has not been our experience on other cruise lines! And we have cruised about 20 times.!
There could have been a little improvement with the special gluten free diet I had alluded to in my customer profile. It was very confusing the first 2 days of the cruise, although the maître de was trying his hardest. The kitchen just didn't seem prepared and, sorry to say, had the absolute worst gluten free bread that I have ever tasted. Products such as Schwar dinner rolls (European), Pamela's Pastry Flour or Pancake Mix, Gluten Free Bisquick, Udi's French Bread and French Rolls and Breads, Glutino English Muffins are available and would have probably saved the bakers some grief. As the trip progressed, the kitchen rose to the occasion, but I got the impression that it was not easy for them.
I have to say, that my massage fees were waived because of the gluten free problems the first two days, which was very thoughtful. The Ama baseball hat in the room and scarf were also very thoughtful.
The entertainment was surprisingly good every night. The cruise manager and maître de were fabulous and always available.
Entry and exit of the ship was smooth and flawless--I had to pinch myself that it was so easy, after waiting in long long boarding and exiting lines on other cruise ships.
Great cruise! Would go on Ama again.
