Carole & Derek

Cruise Line: Sun Cruise
Name of Ship: Sunbird
Sailing Date: March 23rd, 2003
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

We just got back from our cruise. It was GREAT! We started off in Toronto, and at the airport we upgraded to Premier Class seats. It is well worth the minimum fee to upgrade (or do it thru your travel agent before you go). The leg room alone was worth it.

We arrived in Montego Bay, and soared thru customs and right onto the ship. You do not see your luggage until the ship, so pack shorts and light clothes for the weather.
The food was great. There was a choice of eating casual near the pools or you can eat in the dinning room for breakfast or lunch. The dinners were sooo great. Lots of choice and so much food. It's hard to go back to normal eating habits when you get home. The cabins were small, but comfortable. The space is well used. Lots of storage space and the beds were comfortable. The cabin stewards were really good. They clean your cabin every morning and come back at night for turn down service and tidy up. Always fresh towels. They work around you, so turn down service is done during your dinner time.

The staff on board were generally nice. We did have some "customer service" issues with the purser's desk, but that's another story.

There is internet available on board. As well as a TV in your cabin that had BBC News (of course) and some movies and most of the other channels were advertisement for the ship. In your cabin every night they put an activity list for the following day. Also a map and tourist information for the port you will be seeing next. Good information. Helps to plan your day if you do not partake in a shore excursion. That was another thing. We found the excursions way to over priced. However, if you are in a port like Havana, then it is highly recommended to go on a tour offered by the cruise (shore excursion). But in other places, if you like to tour around on your own, then don't spend the money. You can find cheaper tours once you port. But again-Havana is a must for the tours. Also recommend to take the tours if you want to see ruins, which are much further away, so that is worth it.

The entertainment on board was good. Different things going on. There was a comedian and other acts they brought in. And of course the house entertainment. The dancers were good, and the orchestra was wonderful. But one of the lead vocalists (female) was bad. She needs some work.

This cruise is not recommended for young single travelers. Lots of seniors. Mostly from Britain. The disco was not happening at all.

They have an all inclusive plan you can buy for the drinks. It's good if you like to drink. But, it is only for house brands. You have to pay more for premium brand drinks or specialty drinks. All in all it was a great trip. Our favorite island was Grand Cayman. The whole experience was wonderful. The ship was a pleasant surprise. Very happy with everything.