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Exceptional Antarctica! |
| Reviewed By: Sanderson, Edinburgh on 6th Feb 2008 |
| Cruise Line: Voyages of Discovery |
Times cruised before: 3-5 |
| Cruise Ship: MV Discovery |
Sailed:
January,
2008 |
| Destination: Antarctica |
Age: 56-65 |
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We had our reservations about what to expect from this cruise, on a somewhat smaller (and older) ship than some we had experienced, but in the event the whole cruise was exceptional, exceeding our expectations!
The MV Discovery may be an old lady but is in tip-top condition and has of course been re-furbished along the way.
Our cabin, a modest 135 square feet, nevertheless had ample storage for our bulky cold-weather gear, and a compact bathroom with a shower that delivered a good stream of hot water. The cabin was kept re-supplied and spotless throughout the crise by our smiling cabin steward, Joel.
The food, a highlight of any cruise (for us anyway), and particularly so on one that had to cancel several landings due to the weather, was simply wonderful. From the always amply stocked Lido buffet to the formal Seven Continents restaurant, the food was very well presented, appetising and delicious. The menu ran the usual gamut, including lobster and steak, with special chocolate and other themed afternoon teas. Our table waiters Jerome and Ricardo could not have been more attentive, even on the evening when Force 12 (hurricane) force winds upset the glassware throughout the dining room!
The entire crew of Discovery, under Captain Kemp, deserve nothing but praise. Unfailingly smiling and willing, there was not a single sour note, earning our very sincere appreciation. This was team-work of the highest order, exceptional as of course we were only one of a continuing series of cruises.
The amenities of Discovery were fully appropriate for a ship of its size, with several bars, a beauty spa, libary, exercise room and internet centre, etc. The evening entertainment included music, song and dance and, while not of the quality one might expect on much larger vessels, our cruise included a large team of specialist lecturers, led by Dr Peter Carey, who enthralled us with their specialist knowledge of Antarctica.
While we were delighted with our time on Discvery, whose deep draft was very welcome in the turbulent waters surrounding Antarctica, it was the continent itself and the wildlife that were the star attractions. Our itinerary visited the Falkland Islands and South Georgia before heading for the Antarctic peninsula, each in their own way unforgettable and taken together a truly wonderful holiday!
Would we cruise again on Discovery, you bet, just let me know when to climb aboard!
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| Quality of Food |  |
| Lido buffet breakfast/lunch/tea, 7 Continents for dinner, all excellent | | Entertainment |  |
| Satisfactory for the size of ship and the particular itinerary - entire cast gave of their best, sometimes in trying conditions! | | Shore Excursions | |
| Clearly everyone wanted to get ashore as often as possible; that 3 zodiac cruises/landings were cancelled due to weather was not the fault of Discover, just rotten luck! | | Staff | |
| Every single person did an outstanding job and, as our tips were included in the cruise price, most willingly. Thanks to one and all! | | Children's Facilities | n/a |
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