Having had the view of wishing to see the 'northern lights', it seemed a good option to choose. It was a great experience on the Explorer. We have cruised Princess (that experience takes some beating), RCI, and P & O, the thing we find with P & O is that they are trying every which way to obtain more spend out of the passengers, and, in our view, the service kind of seems to be falling off... Marella have it sorted.. you can't help but come off the ship we were on with a smile on your face..
The dining facilities were very good with high windows, roomy table layouts, able to accommodate shared dining experiences if required, the menus were varied and similarly, very good, table assistance was also excellent, everyone of the staff had a smile on their faces and it felt a total commitment to service on behalf of their employers.
Although we had the all inclusive aspect we did try the Dining Club, Kora La & the Turf & Turf fine dining experiences, we were not disappointed, if they were to be put in order of preference, we'd say Dining Club first with a close second by the Kora La and perhaps a not so close Surf & Turf last... but still worth the visits...
For a first time, we thought we'd try an inside cabin experience, well, since the daylight was minimal and the shore stops were frequent, we felt it would be worth a go... a good cabin, mid-ship, well maintained and comfortable.. and with lights out, because it was so dark it was possible to get a late 'afternoon snooze' before another indulgent night of all inclusive!