And the cruise begins. The ship is new and really well appointed- lots of bars, dining rooms pools etc. a running deck, fitness, casino, library etc. 3500 passengers but the ship is so big you never have a sense of crowding except at boarding and excursion days. Dressing up as "Where Wally" was a big hit with passengers and crew - good icebreaker. Today was wig day - aging rock stars, Kath and Kim and Marylin Monroe. We told people to brace themselves as one of the days was Birthday Suits. Food is everywhere and people are always eating. A huge variety of people - 43 nationalities dominated by Amurricans, Canaydians and Orssies but also lots from Japan, Singapore and Taiwan. Great production shows every night. Inner Staterooms are very spacious, movies on call etc. The whole package is great value and a good way to see a lot without always packing and moving. We're rocked to sleep every night by the boat.