As to be expected, there were a few problems on the first few days, but our overall experience was great. The room was every thing that we expected as we already new they had not been refurbished. Larger than experienced on previous ships. The service we received from the room stewards was second to none and any problems were attended to promptly. We loved "The Pantry" concept (much more hygienic than the old buffet style) although ,as a senior, a few less stools and more tables and chairs would be an improvement. The menu at this venue could do with a bit more variation as well.(and proper coffee please!)The menu in the Waterfront was adequate in our opinion.

Service across the whole ship was a little slow and disorganized to begin with but improved as the cruise progressed.The menu in both Angelos and Dragon Lady was good and the food was as good as any I've experienced elsewhere. The port and shore excursions were all good in our experiences. Esperance was a bit of a problem for some but in the main it was weather related and not the fault of the crew. The tendering crew did a great job under difficult circumstances to get every one back on board safely. Better communication from the Captain down, particularly to those caught ashore, would have helped ease the anxiety for a lot of people. Top marks to the residents of Esperance for helping out, when they themselves were facing a deadly bush fire situation.

The entertainment was variable. We went to most shows and enjoyed most of it. Something different for everyone. Not too many cruises end with a bang as ours did on arrival in Sydney Harbour. We loved every minute of it. We don't tend to dwell on the negatives and for a "new" ship with a new crew we enjoyed our time on board and would certainly recommend it to anyone.