We had booked a mini suite with balcony using the casino-at-sea rate and felt we had a great deal with that, but we had an opportunity to bid for an upgrade to various Haven suites. We put in bids in the "low fair" range and heard 3-4 days before sail away that the bid was successful. The room was spacious, well appointed, came with butler and concierge service, had a king size bed vs queen, and was very convenient to Mandara spa and Haven pool deck and dining room. There was a spa In the room which never got used, and we would have preferred an extra table and chair, instead.

The ship had about 4000 passengers and we were initially concerned about crowds in common areas and at meal and debarkation times. We ran into the crowds a few times but we could escape to the Haven and thermal spa whenever we wanted to, and found the concierge service especially helpful in arranging seating at entertainment events, dining, and debarkation.

We ate in specialty dining each night except for one night with ship's staff and had unlimited beverage package. Very worthwhile benefits. Entertainment options were excellent throughout the cruise. Read more