This was our first cruise on an 'upscale' line, so cannot really compare to other 'upscale' cruises. We liked the smaller vessel with less than 700 passengers that could get in to the 'lesser visited' ports. The Windows Cafe was more relaxing (than similar type venues) than on the larger ships, with tables relatively far apart and easier access(less crowded) to the buffet. The staff throughout was very friendly and welcoming. Although only two separate locations (front and rear) the elevators were always prompt and hassle-free. Cabin service was good and unobtrusive. On some days the 'house' white wine wasn't very good, but not undrinkable. Shore excursions always went smoothly, with 18-22 people per tour, a real plus. They really took care of their "Le Club Voyage" (loyalty club) passengers. We had sailed on Celebrity last year so were already Le Club members.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
this was the best food we've ever had on years of cruising.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We did not really participate in any; the day was full from morning until dinner with the shore excursions. But there were no 'hokey' games/contests like on larger 'family oriented' cruise ships which was just fine.
Entertainment
The entertainment was good and varied, but the venue, the Cabaret Lounge, was always uncomfortably hot and for the shows that we did see, we never stayed for the entire performance
Children's Programs
3 out of 5
There may have been 1 child on board, but this is not suitable for children.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Very good and professional. Better than any cruise we've experienced.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Great. I know it's an older ship (2000 i think) but they did a recent major remodel that left nothing to be desired. The ship was very clean.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
It was pretty quiet. Did not hear people traversing the hallways or nearby toilets flushing. Big square table and 2 nice, comfortable chairs on the veranda. The loveseat in the cabin was not really big enough for 2 people. Our cabin was very near the self serve laundry, which we thought could be a problem, but it was not. The 7th floor was in between two floors of cabins, so no noise from public areas above or below.
Ship tip
Tell people to not bring any kind of pocket knife on board. They confiscated (but returned upon disembarkation with some confusion) my husband's that he has been taking on board other cruises for many years. It has a few gadgets--is just a standard Swiss army knife--not a large blade or anything.
Loved it and the visit to the nearby city of Budva. both very scenic. The ship was docked directly on the promenade of the old walled city of Kotor. Stuff was relatively inexpensive.
Beautiful city, but a lot of tourists. We had been there before and don't remember it being crowded like it was that day. If you have time take the tour to walk the wall (and not on your own).
Loved it. It's about a 3 hour town, which worked out good because the ship departed there at 2PM. Glorious pine treed promenade along the water with lots of scenic views and waterfront restaurants. Take the walking tour shore excursion.
The Azamazing Evening was in Tito square, walking distance from the ship. It was over the top. Our shore excursion was to Ljubljana which was great. Wish we could have spent more time there, but it was an hour & 15 min bus ride to the ship. Included lunch was just OK.
We had been there before so skipped the main sights of Doge's Palace, St Mark's Basilica. We took the back streets guided walking tour which was great. Venice was very, very crowded--difficult to walk and it got pretty warm in the afternoon. Would never want to go there in the summer.
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