We chose this cruise as all passengers needed to be from the UK, fully vaccinated and have passed a PCR test within 3 days of travel. This gave confidence that it would actually be safer to go cruising than stroll around the local shopping centre (where masks appear to have been abandoned). Another factor for this cruise was that it wouldn't be full. In fact, there were less than 1,000 passengers on board when it can hold over 4,000. Again, this gave confidence around the ability to apply social distancing and meant that it was going to be a more relaxing cruise rather than one with a party atmosphere. if you're looking for lots of atmosphere, people everywhere, the usual parades and processions, then it's probably too soon for you to be cruising. If, however, you want a bit of space, more attentive crew, a choice of sun loungers on deck and no wait times, then this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity to feel like you have the ship to yourselves!

While communication ahead of the cruise was a bit patchy (we had to chase info about taking the PCR test), everything from check in onwards went extremely smoothly. We arrived in Southampton at about 11am and, once check in opened, we were processed within minutes. Boarding started at noon and we were able to go straight to our cabin on the 12th deck. We had a balcony cabin (largely as a precaution in case we'd have to quarantine) towards the aft of the ship and it was bigger than we were expecting. Double sofa in addition to the bed and plenty of storage for clothes. There was a kettle and instant coffee provided daily. Both European and American plug sockets as well as 2 USB sockets for devices.

It was modern, clean and well maintained. There was nothing to fault. The balcony was a decent size with two chairs and two foot stalls. And the flat screen TV was huge, although you weren't able to insert any of your own cables if you wanted to connect your laptop to it for example!! Our cabin attendant always left the cabin spotless, cleaning in the morning and doing a turn down service in the evening. Read more