We were looking for a cruise with less people and excursions to show us parts of the world we've never seen before. As our first ever cruise we didn't wish to be overwhelmed by people. The ship was quite lovely and our cabin large than anticipated. The crew took very good care of the passengers. Buffet breakfast and lunch with your choice of a sit down dinner or a buffet in the lounge. The food was delicious and there was a wide variety to choose from. Embaration and disembarkation was very smooth - clearly has the process down to a science! The ports and excurions were totally optional but we took advantage of tthe opportunity to experience the local sights. Most guided excurions also included some "free" time to roam on your own - amount of time varied from place to place. We would most definitely go on another Avalon cruise!