We have only previously done a small ship cruise (sadly no longer trading) which we were thoroughly spoiled for ratio of staff to guest. So with 2,850 guests sailing out of Sydney on April 3rd 2014 for South Pacific Cruise we weren't expected too much. How wrong we were ....5 star cabin, 5 star dining and 5 star service !! We have no negatives just the best cruise holiday we could have hoped for. We may have been lucky but the sea was calm so my husband who suffers terrible travel sickness was just fine, only took tablets for 2 days out of 8 days. The dinner in the Grand Epernay was fantastic with our two waiters constantly anticipating our needs . We opted for the later sitting at 8.30 as it suited us . We dined at one specialty restaurant The Murano which was also excellent , but honestly we really enjoyed the food and atmosphere at the Epernay , could not fault it . For Breakfast and lunch we opted for the Oceanview Grill or Aqua Spa ( healthy alternative). We are well travelled through our work so the ports and excursions had no interest for us, we remained on the ship completely immersed in everything that was on offer. Hard to believe that so many people are on board as during the day we found so many quiet spaces all over the ship to sit and read or just relax and watch the passing guests.... Ensemble Lounge, Passport Lounge, Cellar Masters, Michael's Club but beware at night these places are popular drinking lounges. The Library and Solarium were our favorite spots for chilling. Pool and decks upper and lower are great with plenty of lounges and no need to bag-a bed mentality here on board , but there is a jogging track on upper level with a bar so this gets hectic and a live band and DJ always playing around the pool mixed with general chatter of fun makes this a happening spot particularly around Zumba class ! If you want action and company there is plenty on offer just turn up and get involved. If you are seeking relaxation and a degree of privacy , you can be like us and occasionally retire to enjoy your cabin watching the sunset from our sunset verandah balcony ...not hardly a noise except the sound of the wake of the ship total Bliss ....... For first time cruisers I recommend you read every review covering cruise line, ship, excursions, cabins ,entertainment , then sit back and work out what you want from your cruise and hopefully you will make an informed decision and your cruise will be as happy and memorable as ours. We are planning another voyage with Celebrity Solstice in the future .