An excellent first foray into cruising. A few minor room issues and a canceled show, but otherwise amazing.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We sailed in a Haven suite, so we received priority embarkation. It was a welcome boon after a grueling flight none of us could sleep on. Canapés and morning beverages were waiting for us, we were escorted on board via private elevator, and welcome drinks were served in the Haven bar.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The Haven restaurant was amazing. A little monotonous since the menu doesn't change during the trip, but the food quality was on par with the specialty restaurants we visited. La Cucina was just OK, but Le Bistro was amazing.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Haven pool was good, but we only saw waiters a couple of times the whole trip. The Thermal Suite though was well worth the additional fee for the week. Amazing view off the stern from a private balcony.
Entertainment
Unfortunately Priscilla was canceled due to technical issues for our entire cruise, and it was one of the most anticipated shows of the trip.
Children's Programs
No kids with us
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our butler, steward, bartenders, and wait staff in the Haven were the best on the ship, hands down. They truly went out of their way to make the trip amazing.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
The ship was extremely clean on the inside, and maps at every elevator made getting around relatively easy. Exterior windows were filthy on the outside though, marring the views and making photos impossible. I get that this is tough to change, but I wasn't expecting it.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
The suite was a decent layout, but some aspects were poorly executed. Room AC was weak, balcony door handle came off in my hand the first time (later fixed), fridge was in an unvented cabinet and wasn't very cold, fold out couch in the second bedroom completely blocked the closet. Bed was comfortable enough though. Internet was VASTLY overpriced for the slow speeds offered.
Ship tip
A vlogger pointed out that the carpet in some areas has fish on it that always point toward the bow, and I used that tip more often than I expected.
Don't get me wrong - Pompeii was fascinating and beautiful, but Naples is an economically depressed area. Garbage everywhere, graffiti, buildings in disrepair, shanty towns... It was truly a sad sight driving through it. If you're getting off the ship in Naples, pay for an excursion.
Amazing town. Beautiful, well maintained, friendly... Just get out and walk around. We had crepes and croque madam at a sidewalk Cafe and it was fantastic. A LOT of smokers in France, which was the only real negative for us.
Another amazing spot. Toured a botanical garden and had tappas for lunch at a restaurant outside town. Excellent food and drink, rugged landscape and beautiful vistas.
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