Black Watch Review
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It was by pure chance that we booked the cruise. I was scanning the advertisements for a cruise around the British Isles when I spotted the Fred Olsen advert for St Petersburg and the Baltic Capitals. It was on my 'must do' list for 2013. The price was right. The date and length of cruise just right, so why not. The Black Watch is a small ship with a big heart. Obviously, her age dictates that she looks a bit tired in places but she is obviously a battler and she is a pleasure to be a passenger on. You could always find a quiet area to read and reflect, or company in one of her many lounge areas. You were not aware of the Black Watch being small as there always seemed to be plenty of space and room. Her personnel are second to none. The service we had throughout the cruise from the dining room staff and room attendants was second to none. They always had a smile, were always cheerful and nothing was too much trouble for them. The food was an absolute delight with something for everyone. Just couldn't be faulted. The evening shows were a pleasure, and the Black Watch Company are to be congratulated. No bad language from the comedian just pure fun and laughter. The singers and dancers plus musician's throughout the ship were a delight. There are two shops on board. Small but full of goodies. In fact I bought a lot a goodies with no regrets. Ladies, do not bother to take clothes with you, they carry a beautiful range of clothes and swimwear. My husband also purchased some items of clothing. Very pleased at the fact he wouldn't find them on the High Street. You won't find a rock climbing wall or a water ski facility on board this ship, but who really needs it. Not I. If you are seeking warmth, comfort, good food and company, interesting speakers (we had several), the opportunity to go on excursions that give you a taste of the various countries
and lots of different activities during the day (including how to play bridge and learn to dance), then the Black Watch is for you. Try it and see.
Note(s)
Cabin Review
Balcony Cabin
Cabin No 8008. Two fixed single beds. Both comfortable. Just enough room within the cabin for a chair and small round table plus a dressing table with complimentary tea and coffee. Past experience told us how much room we had to store suitcases (between dressing table and balcony doors)so we ensured that the cases could all fold into the one large one. Small balcony, but standard throughout the ship. Small closet, but plenty of storage room within. Cabin had two generous wardrobes with draws, not enough hangers, but I always take some of my own. We had a restrictive view from the balcony, but we had been made aware of that upon booking. Fortunately, it was no problem and the minute viewing restriction was caused through three small 2 x man life boats. The shower was adequate, but I would have preferred it a little larger. The toilet system seemed to run all night which was a bit irritating and the panel board separating the balconies was slightly adrift as it kept banging when there was a wind. Room was easily accessible from the lift and whilst we were on board it was a quiet corridor. Cabin looked tired and could well do with a refurbish and super duper clean.