We were pleased that the ship’s journey enabled us to visit a variety of locations in Australia and New Zealand – on time and in calm seas.
The fiordland scenery was exceptional.
Our state-room veranda on Navigation deck was excellent.
Being only one floor from the Lido Market (hottish water for drinks) near to Observation and gym/swim deck was good.
Unfortunately, the noise from the dish-wash station directly across the walkway from our door was loud.
The Promenade deck gave good walking access and fresh air.
The on-shore excursions were well organised – probably the best bits of the experience.
The staff were friendly and smiley and the ship was spotlessly clean.
Gala nights allowed elegance.
Generally, the food was low-quality and bland.
We were constantly reminded of a poor BHSCafe We were very disappointed with the repetitiveness of the meals – almost the same menu every day.
So we resorted to the Pinnacle Grill, where the standard of service was beautiful, but the food (sadly) was not.
There was only one evening in the 15 when the Pinnacle menu changed – we had a Cellar Master’s Dinner.
A good try, but it felt like they were out of their depth.
The wine choices had been thoughtfully made and matched the courses, but the cooking was indifferent.
Not one of the staff in any of the venues onboard could make a decent cup of tea! We dutifully attended many of the “entertainments” provided.
They were overwhelmingly dreadful amateur performers.
Nothing that wowed us.
We corresponded with the Event Manager to express our astonishment at how some had managed to pass an audition.
As a first cruise, it was an experience but not something we could recommend or would ever wish to repeat.
Cruising is not for us.
