I boarded the ship at Doper which is the most convenient cruise port for me. I parked my car in the port which efficiently organised. After check-in I boarded immediately and my luggage followed only a few minutes after. It was one of the quickest start to a cruise I have experienced and I have taken 40+ cruises.
Our cruise took us to three of the islands in the Azores, Madeira, Lisbon and Oporto.
The "Balmoral" is a fine ship and looks to be in a very good condition. I still have some difficulty in recognizing the the grey hull livery. I expect I will accept it in due course.
The grade K cabins are ideal for the single traveler, they are reasonably spacious.have plenty of storage space and all the other necessary facilities.
A great way to explore the island with a driver/guide and only 3 or 4 passengers