To put these comments in context - we have been on 10 or so cruises, to various destinations and with no particular loyalty to any one cruise line, although we had sailed on Celebrity Century a few years ago. We chose this re-positioning cruise mainly because of its itinerary - we particularly wanted to visit Bermuda, where there was a family connection, to catch up with a friend who lives near New York and to arrive in Florida fully rested as a change from flying. We had read comments on this site about the Eclipse and thought that we fully understood the implications of re-positioning.

The Good Stuff - The hotel (and it is a hotel afloat more than a ship) was very comfortable, spacious and scrupulously clean. The crew and hotel staff were friendly and helpful but never un-necessarily obtrusive. The cabin (with veranda) was fairly standard but perfectly comfortable. We had read comments about lack of drawer space but didn’t find this much of a problem - easy access to a suitcase beneath the bed is a simple solution if overflow is required. The toilet was spacious with good storage for toiletries etc and the shower was one of the best we’ve experienced on a cruise. We ate in the main dining room every evening and found the food to be very good with a reasonable menu selection. Portion sizes varied but being on late sitting we found them totally acceptable, occasionally adding a side dish of potatoes or vegetable. Our waiter was always willing and able to offer (good) advice when asked. Any occasional issues with food temperature or choice were quickly and satisfactorily resolved. We usually had breakfast and lunch in the buffet which we found well laid out (far easier to access than the confused layout of Cunard). Choice was good but didn’t vary greatly from day to day. Very good bakery items in the afternoon and sushi selection in the evening offered an option to bridge the gap to late dinner. The evening entertainment in the theatre was varied and of a consistently high standard. Personal preference plays such a big part here but the variety on offer seemed to please most of the people most of the time - no mean achievement.

The Bad Stuff - Despite arriving at Southampton at the designated time we had to queue for over 20 mins to clear security and a further 20 mins to reach the check-in desk. Having completed check-in we were informed of major changes to the itinerary. We were no longer going to Bermuda, our two days in New York were going to be two days later than planned and we were going to have an afternoon in Madeira. This was certainly not what we had booked - more of this later. The welcome on board was lukewarm and communication regarding the route change was minimal. Read more