The Itinerary suited us but sailing from Cardiff clinched it. Knowing nothing at all about cruise lines I booked on impulse. Then, I found cruisecritic and how critical some were about the Marco Polo! By the time out sailing date arrived I was filled with trepidation about poor food, bad service, and a generally bad trip.

I had read so much that my expectations were low but the first sight of the Marco Polo brought a lump to my throat, I had wanted for so long to experience a cruise, and here I was. Expecting the worst we were shown to our cabin where our cases which had only left us 20 minutes before, were outside the door. All four cases, yes I made all the classic first timer mistakes. Our cabin was exceptionally clean with enough storage space for everything.

We chose to eat in Marco's and as a vegetarian my only gripe was all the meat eaters digging into the vegetarian and vegan dishes. The food was always enjoyable, not gourmet certainly but I enjoyed every meal. I have crutches but am used to them but in the eleven nights I don't think I had a meal time where immediate assistance was not given as soon as I stood up. The service was outstanding and we stayed in Marco's for the whole cruise. Read more