We chose this cruise by the ports of call. We arrived early morning in Barcelona and the cruise line representatives arranged for transportation and breakfast at a nearby hotel. Embarkation was quick and easy. Our top deck suite was lovely, spacious and immaculate. The huge walk in closet is a bonus.The food overall was quite good - I highly recommend dining at La Dame - with good selections of wine. But the best part of the cruise is the service. It is simply outstanding. Our butler, Marlon, could not have been more helpful and gracious. The wait staff are friendly and courteous. Just superb. We visited interesting ports of call and took advantage of shore excursions at each stop. Some of the tour guides are better than others but in the main we thoroughly enjoyed every experience. I travel internationally quite a bit on business and have pretty high standards, and would recommend the Silver Whisper with no reservations whatsoever.