This was my first cruise ever, and will do it again! The service, amenities, and ease of travel was surprising. Felt like a luxury hotel. Enjoyable activities for all ages, not just seniors.
Regarding excursions, suggest you research each port prior to trip if you don’t want to pay for shore excursions. There is enough to do in some ports without excursions, but you have to be prepared to walk on uneven paths, far distances. We averaged 12,00-15,000 steps daily. So prepare yourself and get in shape!
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Smooth, but port is not convenient. Small town with mediocre pre-board night accommodations
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Sue, the entertainment director, outdid herself! The talent was superb, something going on all the time.
Children's Programs
Did not travel with kids, but looked like lots of activities for them.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Had the best wait staff in the Blu Restaurant, and also in QSine. They greeted us using our names, remembered the foods we liked, invited us back, made friends. Especially outstanding were Kamut, Melody, Deni, and the Sommelier. Room Steward Gavin was always smiling and helpful. A kitchen tour (which is a pain for kitchen staff) was impressive. The inner workings are meticulous, and kitchen staff were friendly and had positive attitude. Seems that employees are treated with respect and are happy.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Ship tip
Study the onboard entertainment offerings before boarding. Lots of venues, can’t do it all.
Since we arrived 3 days before departure, we were already in Venice and did not take the transport from the airport to Ravenna Port. This was a mistake, as we traveled by train and then stayed overnight in Ravenna at a mediocre hotel. Ravenna port far away from Venice , but understand there are only so many ports which can accept a large cruise ship. We did not know about the historical mosaics of Ravenna, and suggest you get a room near to and visit those sights if you do not want to travel from Venice’s airport the morning of embarcation.
Weather was very bad and choosing to dock was delayed. Almost missed Naples altogether. Captain bravely chose to dock after very careful consideration. Some morning excursions were canceled, and we had canceled our pompeii excursion due to the weather. Just took hop on/off type of bus tour around city. City is dirty and feels unsafe compared to other stops. Saddening to see (local) disrespect of the pearl of a city this once was.
Did not book an activity, and this was our last stop, so touring Rome was on our own for a few days after. Was beautiful and historic and awe inspiring. Too many street hawkers and pushy vendors. Went on to Florence which was much more relaxed and beautiful.
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