Tropical Wildlife And Wonders
Tropical Wildlife and Wonders |
1 of 1 people found this review informative
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Reviewed By: Vivian, Bexhill-on-Sea on 6th Jan 2010
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| Cruise Line: Spirit of Adventure |
Times cruised before: 0 |
| Cruise Ship: Spirit of Adventure |
Sailed:
March,
2009 |
| Destination:
Panama Canal
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Age: 65+ |
| Cabin: Outside |
Occasion: Annual/regular holiday |
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Having travelled extensively to many far-away places in search of adventure we decided it was time to embark on our first cruise. Preferring a more intimate and comfortable atmosphere, with the opportunity to explore remote destinations, we opted for 'The Spirit of Adventure'.
Commencing in Costa Rica, the itinerary included Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia, and four Caribbean islands, ending in Barbados. Given the size of the ship, we were able to berth in lesser known ports making embarkation easy and often we were the only visitors to enjoy the fabulous beaches and local points of interest. The choice of included excusions catered for all tastes and were superbly managed by Angela and other crew members. One of the highlights of a fascinating tour was to watch in wonderment at the ability of larger liners to pass through the Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun locks and to learn the history of the Panama Canal development.
Sailing into Port Antonio, Jamaica, was stunning - the third largest port in a paradise made famous by the legendary Errol Flynn in a series of 1940's movies. A scenic drive gave us an insight into the cultural history of this enchanting part of the island. The day was rounded off by a rafting adventure down the Rio Grande.
Back on board, we particularly liked the open-seating arrangements in the dining room - the quality and quantity of the food was excellent. All crew members were cheerful, friendly and always available to assist. A special mention of Clive, a multi-skilled gentle giant who provided musical entertainment each evening in the Sirocco Lounge, along with snorkelling lessons on board and cycle rides ashore. Captain Kees was very approachable and made the formal dinners very relaxing and enjoyable. The cabins, whilst not large, were clean and comfortable. Entertainment was low-key by comparison to that available on larger ships but satisfied the mood and interests of the majority of passengers. Lectures, quizzes, camera, art, and keep-fit classes completed our enjoyment. The extensive library provided a peaceful haven whilst satisfying the usual requirements.
A wonderful first cruise which will certainly be repeated; a bonus was the presence on board of Chris Searle and his team from Sky Travel making a TV documentary on the virtues of small-ship cruising. All passengers subsequently received a complimentary DVD of the televised show. A memorable keepsake!
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| Quality of Food |  |
| Breakfast and dinner in the dining room - lunches in the Verandah Bar. | | Entertainment |  |
| Classical concert, opera singer and the local visiting island entertainers were the most enjoyable. No weaknesses. | | Shore Excursions | |
| Rafting on the Rio Grande was the best favourite and the least favourite was the Panama City Tour | | Staff | |
| Clive Carrington. Multi-skilled entertainer and instructor (taught snorkelling and organised offshore cycle tours. A very likeable guy. | | Children's Facilities | n/a |
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| Yes. | | Cabins | |
| Taking in account the size of the ship the cabins met our expectations. Very clean and well maintained. | | Overall Rating | |
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