It was a experience, albeit a whirlwind. Although the ship is in port almost 12 hours a day in most places, the actual excursion cities are quite a distance from the port (except Barcelona) giving you less time than you think to explore. Nevertheless, you will undoubtedly have an amazing experience and visit iconic and often once in a lifetime sites.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Easy and very organized. Super quick!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Food was excellent in the main dining rooms and other complimentary areas, buffet is typical and we did not visit any specialty restaurants. Everywhere was impeccably clean and service was exceptional. I was especially impressed with how food allergies were handled throughout the ship.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
We did not participate in many but the shows were very good and there was plenty going on.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Shows were excellent!! musicians were all top notch.
Children's Programs
n/a
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Friendly, helpful, respectful and thoughtful
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Everywhere we went was clean and well maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We were extremely pleased with the size and location of our cabin. It was always clean and comfortable.
Ship tip
Book a room near the elevators if possible. They are easier to find.
Barcelona is a vibrant city with much to see and admire. We arrived a day early and were able to visit La Sagrada Familia (buy tickets in advance and be sure to get at least an audioguide), The Gothic Quarter, and Las Ramblas including Boquerias (where you can sample a variety of local fare). Keep in mind that many shops are closed on Sundays (including Boquerias).
The port is far from Rome so don't plan to see too much because you will be on a bus to Rome for quite some time as well as back to the ship from Rome. I suggest not doing any excursions that say "on your own" as there is so much to see and it is easy to get lost and not always easy to find your way back to the tour bus that drops you off in Rome. If planning to visit the Vatican, buy your tickets in advance and keep in mind, it may be all you have time for on this cruise. If planning to visit the Colosseum, buy tickets in advance (unless they're part of your excursion already) if possible, although this is difficult because they need to be purchased for a specific time and you don't really know what time you will arrive due to traffic etc. PS the fountain at the base of the Spanish Steps is NOT the Trevi Fountain.
Florence is also very far from the port so your time is limited but it is lovely. The Leaning Tower is a must see and don't forget to take that quintessential tourist photo of you holding up the tower! Be creative and fun. We saw a family all holding each other's backs while the person in front, "held up" the tower!
We did not venture further than Cannes itself. It's ok. Mostly a fancy city surrounding a small old French town. We went to the beach at the end of the pier and although small, it was very refreshing and clean.
We decided to take a taxi (about 20 euros more or less each way) to Palmanova Beach. It is large, clean and there are many restaurants across from the promenade. We were told that there are many beaches that are much nicer but this was a nice beach and only about 15-20 minutes from the port.
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