Overall Score

BERLITZ'S RATING
	Possible	Achieved
Ship	500	382
Accommodation	200	164
Food	400	295
Service	400	300
Entertainment	0	0
Cruise	500	377

How this score is created

Regardless of the category you choose, all cabins are nicely equipped, have crisp, inviting décor and a mini-bar/refrigerator (stocked when you embark, but all drinks are at extra cost), 24-hour room service, personal safe, television (with CNN, when available, for news) that rotates so that it is viewable from the bed and the bathroom, video player, compact disc player, plenty of storage space, and two portholes. The cabins all have two portholes with outside views, and deadlights (steel covers that provide a complete blackout at night and can be closed in inclement weather conditions). The decor is a pleasant mix of rich woods, natural fabrics and colorful soft furnishings, and hi-tech yacht-style amenities. However, note that some of the cabinetry is looking a little tired, and has that “I’ve been varnished many times” look. A basket of fruit is provided, and replenished daily.

The bathrooms are best described as compact units, designed in a figure of eight, with a teakwood floor in the central section. There is a good amount of storage space for personal toiletries in two cabinets, as well as under-sink cupboard space; a wall-mounted hairdryer is also provided. The shower enclosure (no cabins have bathtubs) is circular (like many of today’s passengers), and has both a hand-held as well as a fixed shower (so you can wash your hair without getting the rest of your body wet). Personal bathroom amenities by L’Occitane are provided, as are a vanity kit and shower cap.

Note, however, that the lighting is not strong enough for women to apply make-up – this is better applied at the vanity desk in the cabin, which has stronger overhead (halogen) lighting. Bathrobes and towels are 100% cotton.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008