We loved the smaller ship experience which only had 670 people on board. We made many friends because you see them often at dining areas, entertainment areas and on excursions.
The staff is very attentive because there are less people to take care of.
We sailed to Greece and Southern Italy and the ports were marvelous. We only took one cruise excursion because we find taking private tours with other people we meet on cruise critic is far less expensive and much more fun. If you only have two or three other couples on your excursion you don't waste as much time waiting for the excursion to start or waiting for people to reboard the bus after a scenic stop or restroom break.
We loved our cabin. We used the balcony everyday and loved waking up to a new port. The cabin stewart kept it very clean. Of course we wished the shower was bigger.
We took the public transportation to Burano. Loved it.