Minerva Review

4.0 / 5.0
0 reviews

We like small ships but not the Minerva

Review for the Mediterranean Cruise on Minerva
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johncb7
10+ Cruises • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Oct 2015

We were very pleased with our Sun Deck cabin on Minerva. Good size cabin and wide balcony. Stewardess was excellent. The ship appeared to be well maintained and in good order. However things changed when we sailed. The vibration and juddering were terrible. In 30 years of cruising we have never felt anything like this. I was told that there is a continuing problem with the propellers which was partially fixed earlier this year but there is little more that can be done. This, combined with the props being well forward gives a most uncomfortable motion. Whilst our cabin was towards the stern we were on the top deck of cabins. When we hit strong winds later in the cruise matte s were even worse and for the first time ever, like many other passengers, we felt a little under the weather.

Meal times are strictly adhered to in the dining rooms even if a ship's tour comes back late. No question of the buffet staying open a few minutes longer. When I requested a club sandwich, which was on the room service menu, whilst in the dining room, initially this was refused. I could have had a full meal delivered in my cabin but apparently this was a step too far. Eventually the maitre 'D did agree to my request 'as we were on a table for 2'. Food was well below what we would have expected on this ship and regulars told us had gone downhill considerably in the last 12 months or so. The ship had too many areas available to smokers, even on the aft deck which was an extension of the buffet restaurant. When I queried someone smoking on the table next to whilst eating I was told by the Maitre'D that he would prefer in guests did not smoke whilst others were eating but did nothing to prevent it happening.

We missed 2 ports due to strong winds, the ship travels very slowly, maximum I understand is around 14 knots, and is unable to 'run' from inclement weather. With limited manoeuvrability due to restrictions in propeller capability and that of the thrusters the Captain handled the vessel very well but still meant that he did not have the abilities of many other smaller ships when docking.

Cabin Review

Cabin Sun Deck Veranda

Excellent size cabin with sofa, chair and table. Good lighting in cabin, could be better in bathroom. Bed reasonably comfortable but would benefit from a mattress topper when the 2 single beds were put together. P,entry of hanging space and drawers. Wide balcony, about 6 foot deep with 2 reclining chairs and table. There was room for sun loungers but none provided. The sun loungers on the main deck were in appalling condition ,dirty and well worn, and need to be disposed of. Our stewardess was very helpful and attentive.

Port Reviews

Kotor

Would have liked to have explored Kotor but ship could not dock due to gusting winds.

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