Wow ! Trip of a lifetime. No wasted time but nice pace to see things never seen by us before. This first class yet economical cruise left us in awe of ancient history when seen up close and personal.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We added 3 wonderful days in Venice prior to departure so went to pier at start time with no delay, lines,or hassle. We previously bought the unlimited beverage package so grabbed a drink and did a short tour of the ship facilities and relaxed in the Schooner Bar and topside until our room was ready.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Our only downside of the whole trip was a persistent uniformed salesman giving an unpleasant hard sell on the up-sale specialty restaurants. His approach was terrible like the street hawkers with ever changing fake deals. If one or two of our group of four said definitely no, he pursued the spouses. He was all over the public spaces for the first two days. It gave a sour first impression of a low class cruise line. We did not use any specialty restaurants and had no regrets since the food and service at all the included venues was varied and outstanding. All was just great and we had no incentive to purchase extra.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
The season was not hot enough to demand pool use but lounging nearby in the sun watching more hardy soles enjoy was fun. Plenty of activities were available for differing interests - high energy or quiet relaxation.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Rhapsody had about 2000 guests which we assumed was small and would not attract quality entertainment. We were wrong! There was a wide assortment of acts by very high quality performers.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Everyone we encountered was excellent. Our room steward was perfect - never seen but always complete. Waiters took their mission to please guests seriously.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Very very clean. I heard it was the oldest ship in the RC fleet but that was not evident.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Small but plenty of room for our minimal occupancy. Very clean and always remade whenever we left it.
Ship tip
If you enjoy cocktails, purchase the unlimited beverage package prior to sailing at about half price with all top shelf drinks and coffees and quick no-sign service.
We went 3 days early on our own and loved the historic city. Luckily we flew out after the cruise just ahead of the terrible code red flood. I believe the future of that wonderful island is in jeopardy.
The long entry and exit to the port was beautiful. Be sure to make time to enjoy that hour. We did not take or need an excursion since the old village is nearby and fun to wander and enjoy. The centuries old buildings are still used as original - shops on ground floor and living above. The narrow cobble stone streets without vehicles are very unique to Americans. The walls above the city are interesting and worth exploring for younger fit visitors.
We were refunded for a jeep tour excursion cancelled due to wet weather. That was fine since the weather was fine for exploring the close village on our own. More interesting ancient village landscape.
We took the 4 hour bus and Acropolis excursion and loved it. We got a complete appreciation of the highlights. The walk up was less work than it looked at the start since we stopped several times to hear the guide give valuable insight.
We took the walking tour and country wine tasting excursion and loved it. The young tour guide was a life long resident who lover her home. The village was easily toured and just beautiful. The insights from the guided tour was well worth the price. The bus trip to a working farm/vineyard was totally different but equally interesting. We think it was the best island of all visited.
Well organized movement of 2000 people. We took a local cab/van for the two of us at a little over half the price of the RC bus and more convenient we think.
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