This was a long time ambition and doing so joined the 7th Continent Club. The expedition team and crew worked tirelessly and enthusiastically from beginning to end of the voyage. I don't believe there was a minute when you could say you had nothing to do. I had one of the interior single cabins which I was not looking forward to but I was pleasantly surprised as it was spacious with twin beds (with folded bunks above) Plenty of storage space for one and the shower room was ample. The cabin was kept spotless throughout even a chocolate was left on the pillow each evening.

The food in the restaurant was incredible and it was only the last few days bananas became scarce - even I can;t keep bananas at home for over a week. Wine seemed to be a bottomless glass at dinner.

Make sure you use the hand sanitiser rigorously, as despite my disciplined efforts I still succumbed to the ship's bug for the last four days. I wasn't an epidemic but you did notice the absence of individuals for a few days at a time. This was my first sea cruise (only river cruises before) so I guess this was par for the course but running out of Imodium was a bit concerning. However the ship's doctor resupplied me. Read more