We hoped to learn about an area of which we knew little, and to see unusual wildlife - especially birds - in the Danube. We particularly hoped that there would be an optional excursion to the Delta nature reserve. There was neither.

However, Emerald's general organisation was outstanding from start to finish. The ship was flawless except for the noisy dining saloon, very comfortable, and the staff were unfailingly friendly and efficient. All the excursions were interesting, with excellent, informative guides. Our only disappointment was that - although breakfasts were very good, the lunches and dinners were not of the standard one might expect.

The Sheraton Hotel in Bucharest was well-positioned, with a superb lift system. The room was pleasant, with a well-fitted bathroom. Unfortunately, there were irritating details. For example, two of the three electrical sockets were unusable for the room's hair-drier (including the one in the bathroom). There was nowhere near enough usable drawer space. Also, the cooked food was very disappointing, especially the Final Dinner, which featured dried-up chicken and a flavourless sweet that were next to inedible, as evidenced by the quantity left on most plates.