A Perfect Cruise for First Timers

Riviera Cruise Review to Europe - Mediterranean

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 37

Overall rating:

4.9 out of 5
Riviera

10 Night Grecian Glory (Venice To Athens)

Sail date: July 04, 2019

Ship: Riviera

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 8136

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 5 years ago

Review summary

As first time cruisers we had no expectations or experiences to base our trip on. That said, I don't think we could have found a better ship/crew combo to start our cruising journey with. Oceania and the Riviera made our trip completely problem free and enjoyable. We had a great time and look forward to joining one of their ships again sometime soon.

Embarkation

5 out of 5
Well organized and quick. We had no issues whatsoever boarding the ship in Venice. Helpful staff were everywhere.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
We didn't have a single bad experience. Plenty of places to eat, no lines, delicious food and well made drinks. The wine list was exceptional.

Baristas

5 out of 5

An Irish coffee to start the day? Why not.

Waves Bar

5 out of 5

Being greeted on a first name basis was thoughtful. The drinks were delicious, the service great, and the crew amazing.

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5
Riviera has a nice library for reading and lots of nooks to find a quiet place to relax.

Entertainment

We weren't interested in the entertainment.

Library

5 out of 5

We went through at least seven books while on our cruise. Well stocked with lots of good titles.

Children's Programs

There were a few kids onboard but I won't recommend this ship to those seeking water slides, games, etc.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
Exceptional!! Without question the crew on the Riviera are top notch. Respectful, friendly, helpful, and a pleasure to be around. They made the trip.

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
Lots of room, a beautiful view, the bed was unreal in terms of comfort. We hated to leave.

Ports of call

Venice, Italy

5 out of 5
Nice city for a good long walk. You can get around on foot without any issues. There are some amazing restaurants to check out.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

4 out of 5
Given the Game of Thrones popularity, expect crowds. There were people everywhere but it is still a worthwhile place to check out.

Kotor, Montenegro

5 out of 5

Corfu, Greece

5 out of 5

Katakolon (Olympia), Greece

5 out of 5

Chania, Crete

5 out of 5

Santorini, Greece

5 out of 5

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

5 out of 5
There are some amazing ruins to see. They had a bus trip from the ship and it was well worth going. A ton of history.

Mykonos, Greece

5 out of 5
This is such a photogenic place. Colours and beauty everywhere.

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

4 out of 5

Disembarkation

5 out of 5
No problems at all. We booked out, left the ship, and headed right to the airport. Cabs are right by the port. The Athens airport was about 30 minutes from the port.
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1 Comment

gatorhotline    5 years ago

You picked an excellent cruise line and ship for your first cruise. Hope you have many more! We love O.