When we boarded, we were informed that there had been an itinerary change due to unsafe ice conditions in Greenland. Initially, we were very sad about this change because we wanted to see Greenland. We were provided alternate ports, though, including the Faroe Islands. These ports were a wonderful addition to our cruise. We appreciate the captain making the decision to keep us safe and allowing us time at other locations. Some other ships simply had more sea days, but our captain did the work to make sure that we could go to more places.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
This was the easiest embarkation process. We were dropped off by the luggage area, who quickly took our bags for us (no need to tip). We then walked quickly through the few stations and were on the ship. The entire process from the time we dropped our luggage off until we boarded was ten minutes. Our room was ready for us when we boarded at 1:00 p.m.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
2 out of 5
The food was fresh and plentiful. The executive chef purposely purchased items at each of our ports that was fresh. That means we had salmon from the Faroe Islands and cheese from Iceland. We only ate at the main dining room twice, but it was just as good.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We felt that there was just the right amount of activities on the ship. My husband enjoyed playing pickleball, we both enjoyed dancing and listening to live music, and as a large family we enjoyed playing trivia together. This was the first cruise that I have been on that had arts and crafts, that was a fun experience for us also. We ended up decorating our cabin door with our artwork.
Entertainment
2 out of 5
There were three singer/dancers and four other background dancers that performed. They did a good job.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
The staff worked very hard. It did seem that they were understaffed in some areas, though, such as the buffet. We had to wait a few times just to get drinks, sometimes not seeing the server at all during a meal. Not a big deal, but it did leave us searching for beverage options. The room stewards were incredible. They knew our names by the first day and always checked in with us when we saw them.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The ship was well maintained. The different areas of the ship were fun to explore as they were all uniquely designed.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We loved our cabin! It was at the very front of the ship, so it had an extended balcony. Although too windy to use during sea days, it was perfect when we were entering or leaving ports. We had family come over to look for whales with us on several occasions. I am prone to motion sickness, so I was nervous about being at the very front of the ship. I wore the motion sick bands and had no problem at all. We could feel the motion, but I was fine. In fact, it felt like we were being rocked to sleep.
Ship tip
We brought our reusable water bottles and filled them up each morning and evening in the gym (same floor as the buffet).
About three days before disembarkation, we were provided with instructions for how to either independently disembark or get luggage tags for self-assist. It was an easy process. We chose to independently leave, so we had time to spend with our family at breakfast before we all said goodbye. Getting off the ship was easy. There was even a free shuttle in Reykjavik that brought us to the city center. We were then able to walk to our hotel (less than a mile walk).
Thanks for your review. Glad you enjoyed your cruise even with the change in itinerary. We’ll be on that ship in November and are looking forward to it.
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