Graham Couch
gcoochy@aol.com

Age: 39
Occupation: Aerospace engineer
Number of Cruises: First Cruise
Cruise Line: Sun Cruises
Ship: Sunbird
Sailing Date: July 22nd, 2002
Itinerary: Western Mediterranean

As this was our first cruise we weren’t sure what to expect, arriving in Palma, we boarded at midday, and were shown to our inside cabin where our luggage awaited us. We were due to sail at 11.30 pm so we had a little time to explore the ship. The Sunbird is in my opinion very big so it took a while to find our way round but after a few hours we were ok. After eating our first meal we were very impressed, the food and staff and facilities were brilliant. We had a great pianist in the bar who happened to be from my home town so that was nice. The evening entertainment was also excellent, there were an English comedy duo called The Krankies which were very famous in England so we got to speak to them later. The cabaret laid on by the entertainment staff was breathtaking and very professional. We landed at Naples first, beware! there are hundreds of taxis all waiting to bully you, ignore them go into town first it is easier and quicker as it took us 30 minutes to get out of the port in a taxi. And always agree a price first, Naples is a big, dirty, noisy, city so be careful. Next stop Sicily, again beware there are horse and carriage rides at the port but be astute as they will try to rip you off by trying to charge you double after the ride, always agree a price and stick to it, if they argue just get back onto the ship or even better don't go on them. But see Sicily it is beautiful. Next stop Malta, what can I say? it is beautiful, no danger just go for a nice walk through the town and relax but it is hot! Onto Tunisia, the port is industrial so you will need an excursion on this one, ours was set up, we were taken to a market where we were bullied by all the traders to buy, I felt very intimidated by them and was very uncomfortable, so beware keep hold of your money and just say no and walk away if they bully you. and onto Minorca, another lovely place no danger just lovely and a nice cruise up the tributary to get there.

To summarize an excellent cruise, staff brilliant, food delicious, ship was very clean and well maintained, the amenities like the cabaret lounges and bars were all excellent, the drinks were a little expensive but didn't detract from enjoying ourselves. I would go on this cruise again, knowing what I know now I would get very excited the day before going. overall score out of 10, 9.5.