We have cruised many times before and therefore were quite surprised by the difference between this cruise and the others we have been on. This cruise did nothing well from the captains drinks a shambolic tacky affair, to the food which had the oddest combinations of flavours which mostly did not work. They could not even do simple dishes like pasta well which is quite amazing. The desserts and plain meats were the only highlights and both of these were good. The buffets had very odd combinations none of which went together and anyone liking any type of asian food would have been very disappointed by the flavours. Room service was prompt but could not get the orders right and never brought coffee that was hot, we gave up ordering it as it was virtually cold.
Many accounting issues occurred being charged for wines when having a drinks package, and also not receiving the on board credit which was clearly on the booking from, but the customer service could not have been less helpful or interested in sorting these issues out.
The desk was constantly clogged with unhappy people. Overall this cruise lacked any special feel. The entertainment was ok, the timing of trivia etc not well thought out meaning 8.00 diners virtually never able to do some of these things, but nothing was really good or memorable, anyway. The boat always docked at the furthest dock, and the company never ever put on any free transfers to town, even on one occasion charging 20 american dollars per person for a couple of kilometers in a local boat to town.
Very tired, cleanliness average only. No housecoats without at least four requests and then if you wish to have it changed you have to ask four times again, not good enough. Verandas never cleaned at all.
Messina is a very ordinary town, but Taormina is gorgeous we just did not take a tour as we have been there on a previous trip. Taormina is well worth visiting if you dont go there just stay on the boat
Nice town plenty to see
Lovely town delightful to walk around with plenty of good shopping and restaurants
Delightful in every sense
Wonderful island full of charming people and marvellous historical sights
Grubby average Greek Island