We chose this cruise due the fact we wished to see Baltic cities we had never visited before. The issues that I wish to address are far too many to enumerate so I will attempt to limit my review to those concerns which prompted us to provide a negative review.

CABIN. Our cabin, although comfortable and as described, exhibited several sanitary and material deficiencies. The toilet (near the base and aft corner) had a standing accumulation of "waste water” (color and scent of urine). Our attendant was quick to resolve the issue by sanitizing and absorbing the standing fluids. Although I attempted to reassure my wife that this was an oversight due to short turn-around times in port, the waste water once again began to accumulate around the base of the toilet. I contacted Customer Service (in person) and was told that the problem would be resolved shortly. We were visited by "technicians" to evaluate the problem, however, after assessing the leaks (staring at it for two minutes) indicated that "if it happens again, let us know!" The problem was never resolved throughout the cruise and required continuous attention by our cabin attendant (who was of tremendous help yet unable to correct material deficiencies). We requested (and were denied) another cabin or like accommodations. The ship's captain sent us a bottle of champagne with chocolates regretting this inconvenience (which we later gave to our attendant) but there were no further attempts to mitigate the problem. (I have attached a photo of the "waste" water in our bathroom). Material Conditions (excessive wear) and cleanliness were significant issues. The cabinetry, drawers, dressers, tables, and sofa exhibited extensive areas of distress due to wear and age (photo provided). Some of the drawers (per photo) were so soiled and dirty that chose to leave part of our clothing in our suitcases rather than store it in the drawers.

DINING. The quality and service fell short of our expectations. We considered the entrees to be mediocre and were very limited in variety. It's the small things, e.g., three salt shakers before one that is not clogged due to moisture. A few grains of rice would have resolved this issue. Waiters and staff were unable to communicate adequately in English, German or Spanish. It was a challenging scenario in attempting to fulfill our wishes for meals. Read more