Unexpectedly balmy November weather made a perfect holiday

Having sailed with Seven Seas before, we knew the standard of the ship would be exemplary and it was every bit as good as we hoped. The staff were outstanding, the food excellent, the itinerary was wonderful, but the weather was extraordinarily mild and calm and sunny for November on the Mediterranean! We often cruise the area at this time and have never had such beautiful weather – more like September in those waters.
We went on a number of free excursions and my only comment could be that they would often be more enjoyable and less tiring if the excursions were nearer 3 hours than 5 hours. Several days were a rushed breakfast, on to the coach, then an overlong trip, back to a late lunch at 2 – 2.30 (when the Verandah Restaurant is thinking of closing), then needing to catch up on sleep after lunch (!)
I loved the on-board cooking lessons – the Spanish themed one and the fish cookery. They were held in a splendid specially-designed kitchen on the 11th floor with marvelous views out of the window, whilst we listened and chatted and drank and cooked.
I do not particularly like the decor of the new ship – all swirly odd patterns in black, browns, gold and silver with a dark observation lounge/bar (OK in the evening), but the dining room was thankfully bright and light.
Well done to Seven Seas overall and I recommend the ship to others.