We have just returned from the Discovery cruise Black Sea 2, which followed this one with an identical itinerary. Our day of bad weather was in Sochi (Russia) - torrential rain to the extent that it was spectacular. We too were squashed into a Monarch 757 (both ways) and would think twice before flying any greater distance in such conditions. The staff were to a man wonderful - smiling all the time with passengers and themselves. A critic could say that they sometimes lacked a deferential manner that others may seek - we found it very appropriate. Discovery organistation is first class - having cruised many times this was the first on which we didn't have a problem finding a table in the self service restaurant or have to queue for anything, ever. But we did opt out of the cocktail parties which probably had a line for photos. Great speakers, fellow passengers, crew and ship. who wants anything more?