We really enjoyed the in-depth look into Cuba. It filled in a lot of gaps in our knowledge in spite of the propaganda. We appreciated the smaller crowds and excellent service provided on the Imsignia.
Embarkation
1 out of 5
The embarkation staff was inexperienced in dealing with the bureaucratic Cuban paperwork. Unclear directions to the boarding passengers caused the lines to backup out the door. We waited over an hour for our turn. Hopefully they will figure it out for subsequent cruises to Cuba.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
The specialty dining rooms were excellent, the main dining room was good (no better or worse than any other cruise line), but it was the buffet that stood out as exceptional. Although you needed to reserve the specialty restaurants, it was always easy to get the table of your choice at the other venues without a hassle. And this cruise was fully sold out.
Terrace Cafe
5 out of 5
Unlike most buffets, the Terrace Cafe prepared food to order. For example, Caesar salads were tossed in front of you. Everything was served to you by the buffet staff and was fresh, hot, and high quality. Lobster tails were available every evening. In addition, the ambience was exceptionally nice. We especially enjoyed sitting outdoors on the terrace.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
We booked this ten-day cruise because it was port intensive with only two sea days. The port lectures provided by the onboard expert were thorough and interesting, but other options were lightweight or MIA.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The stage performers and musicians were excellent. But the 9:30 showtime catered to passengers who choose to eat a later dinner. It was not unusual to see audience members falling asleep or just skipping the show altogether. In addition, for people who preferred dinner at 6:30 after a busy day ashore, there was little to do after dinner for about 90 minutes or longer while you waited for the show to start.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
They were very competent, available, friendly, and always willing to serve and take care of you.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The showroom design was more suited as a nightclub than a theater, which is what it is used for. With the exception of the first row, it is a challenge to get an unobstructed view. We learned to arrive early to get up close and to sit directly behind a cocktail table for the clearest view to the stage area. (If you are very tall it may not matter as much.)
Cabin / Stateroom
3 out of 5
It was average and similar to most of the cabins on the ships of the large, not-so-luxurious cruise lines—cramped. The full length mirror was situated about twelve inches from the foot of the bed. If you want a head-to-toe look, you’ll need to stand on the bed. But I loved the balcony, so all else was forgiven. The location of the cabin was great: close to the stairs/elevator and just one flight above the showroom and other deck five public rooms.
Ship tip
1) Book a specialty restaurant for the first night of the cruise. It’s easy to get the table of your choice at the time of your choice. And you won’t be tired of eating yet!
2) The Cuban Affair by Nelson DeMille was fun to read on board. Some of protagonist’s experiences will parallel yours and you’ll recognize the specific locations in Havana.
The evening stroll through old Havana was wonderful. You’ll need a cruise that stays overnight in Havana, however, to book this excursion. The tour around the city in a vintage car was interesting and a lot of fun. We booked this tour in advance through our Cruises Only and we loved it.
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