‘Splendours of Europe’ cruise.
Rotterdam to Budapest.
I have given the ship 4/5 only because of the wonderful staff from the cleaners to the captain everyone was fantastic.
That’s not to say that Luna isn’t a lovely ship but it’s just that our particular cruise raised some issues with Emerald, the company.
Firstly, the pre-organisation was shambolic with a last minute change to departure location.
We should have sailed from Amsterdam was changed to Rotterdam, we were not informed until the ‘My Journey’ leaflet arrived and the venue change was tucked away on page 4.
Even the front page declared we were going from Amsterdam, admittedly we did land at Schipol but then a long provided taxi ride ensued.
Also we were due to cruise on Emerald Dawn but days before we left the UK we found out we would be on Luna (It is the same design).
We booked via Bolsover Cruise Club who always ensure our holiday goes well.
They had a few glitches this time but that’s probably because of the poor information from Emerald/Scenic.
We booked a ‘balcony’ cabin, this is a window that slides down to halfway so that you can see the beautiful views of the river.
This was fine for a few days and then suddenly we met up with other boats and we moored three abreast, most of the time we were in the middle! This meant our balcony view was of the adjoining boats cabins.
When this happens disembarkation is often up stairs to the sun deck and then transfer over the decks of the adjoined boats.
One of our party was an 87 year old who required a ‘wheelie’ to walk.
Getting this device up, over and down the decks was challenging.
We were asked about the ability to climb stairs before departure but we didn’t expect this.
The staff were terrific helping her as much as possible so her holiday was not spoiled.
The menu choice for dinner is limited, usually three options (at least one vegetarian.
The breakfast in the restaurant is a buffet but invariably the food was tepid, apart from the eggs which were cooked to order by a wonder ‘egg chef’ (sorry forgotten his name but he’s fantastic).
It sounds like we had a terrible time but we didn’t, I just need to mention the issues.
There were many great points, the entertainment staff (Sian & Harry) were as good as a troupe of entertainers on board most ships.
Being so small a ship entertainment is limited but they did their utmost to make sure fun was had by all.
Even the lovely bar staff joined in now & then.
The guests on board to entertain (Waltz class, violin & Hungarian evening) were excellent.
The excursions were great with a ‘Gentle walk option’ included for those of us who like to walk slower.
Additional trips were well organised, the multi-tasking Harry was a genius working out the logistics.
Reception staff were the best I have experienced on any cruise ship, they were so helpful & friendly.
You can work your way around the issues because this is a lovely boat that is well worth travelling on.