The Transatlantic was an amazing experience. Highly recommend. One week of rest and relaxation followed by a busy week visiting historic places and fascinating ports. Perfect. Stops at Perfect Day, Cadiz (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal), Vigo (Spain) and finishing at Southampton (England). So fun, I have booked another transatlantic for next year (Rome to Bayonne). Hopefully the time changes will be easier. 😆
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Had the "Key" this trip. Super easy and fast once boarding was allowed. Being aboard quickly afforded plenty of time to get to know the ship.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
All dining was in the main dining for me. Efficient and fun waiter and assistant waiter. Lots of choices each night. However, theme days seemed a bit odd. Even the American theme night had a curry dish. Bar staff was outstanding at mocktails and shakes.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Was surprised at the limited shows and activities on the Transatlantic. Similar comments from those with more experience. Shows were great (with one exception) but not every night had a main event show. Activities were ok but not outstanding.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Great performance by the "Barricade Boys"! Gold Art Duo were also great. So was the juggler. And the Cruise Director sang well! The comic on the last night was way off his game. I have seen him before on a different ship and thought his material was much better then. He had a very off night on Jewel.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Service staff was outstanding. Room steward was efficient, helpful, and left several towel animals throughout the journey. He was also helpful with info on the ports we were visiting.
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
The ship was headed to a drydocking immediately after the transatlantic. So, there were things that needed repair (windows, plumbing issues, and general updating). After drydocking and the upgrades (April/May 2024), it should be in good shape.
My biggest disappointment was relatively minor but annoying... The exterior windows were in desperate need of cleaning. Especially in the public spaces like the Vortex lounge and the Safari Club. Hopefully this was just an abberation because the ship was going into dry dock.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Ship tip
While smaller by today's terms, the ship is quite enjoyable. I found many places to simply relax and enjoy the sea days. Never felt like it was small. My best advice... Have breakfast and lunch in the Windjammer's fantail outdoor seating at least once a day. Stunning views!
I took an independent bus from Southampton to Heathrow Airport. Was less than $20 and a $10 Uber ride to the station. Much less expensive than the Ship's charter bus. Then checked into my hotel and explored London for the afternoon. Unfortunately, had to fly home to the States the next day. Wish I had more time in London. It was extraordinary! Did the London Eye and the hop-on-hop-off tour.
Wow! Lisbon was amazing! Highly recommend the "Hippo" shore excursion. A duck boat ride Extraordinaire! Get up early to get an amazing view of arrival and passing the Monument to Discoveries and then under the Bridge. Worth it!
What an amazing city! The oldest in Europe (so said the tour guide). Did the hop-on-hop-off bus. Stops 500 feet from the pier. Definitely don't miss the Cadiz Cathedral and take a walk up to the top of the Bell Tower. Strenuous but SO worth it!
Appreciate your detailed review. A trans Atlantic is still on my “to do list. Glad you enjoyed your cruise even with the ship getting ready for dry dock. Sounds like you visited some great places that you may just need to go for a vacation. Glad you enjoyed your cruise.
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