We chose this cruise because we wanted to do a Rhine cruise, due to advertising and based on recommendations from the travel agency. Embarkation went smoothly and the cabin was comfortable in every respect. However, while we had been informed that we could be moored next to other cruise ships and there would be passengers crossing our ship to get on and off board, we were not told that about 1/3 of the time we were aboard we could not use our balcony, for which we had paid, due to a ship being inches away and a total lack of privacy and views. We had to use our black out curtains on those occasions for privacy. There was no on board entertainment other than a pianist whose drama far exceeded his skill and a guest violinist who could not set up her sound system for musical background.

The greatest disappointment is with the dining and especially dinners. Very small portions were served and an attempt to compensate by elaborate attempts at presentation. Beef steak - 4 dice-sized bites. Lamb chops - one minuscule chop and a small slice of tough meat. Beef roast - a playing card sized piece half of which was gristle and fat. Snacks and deserts were primarily of the pretty plastic variety. Minimal selection for between meal snacks. The single dining room was a din of noise at meal times.

The complimentary map provided for the cruise could surely be printed to accommodate the direction of the cruise. Shore excursions were OK, neither exceptionally good or bad. Guides on tours were excellent. Read more