We have recently returned from a Christmas Cruise to South America aboard the Splendour of the Seas. We had been to the Greek Islands on this ship in 2006 and it felt small (affecting choice of dining and other features) after travelling on The Brilliance of the Seas, the QM2 and other, larger ships. Although we didn't want to travel on this ship again, the timing and itinerary fitted in with our plans, so we proceeded. In summary, we were extremely disappointed with the trip and would not recommend it. Most of the passengers were Brazilian and we speak no Portuguese. It took four hours to get on board, having arrived at the ship due to a complete lack of organisation at Santos. Because we all got so frustrated at the lack of communication, people in the queue ("line") started shouting at the administrators and security had to be called at one point. They did not communicate in English during the check-in and this made it difficult for us, as we do not know the Portuguese words for the colours (priority categories).

The food was the worst we have experienced on an RCI cruise and choice of dining was limited, due to the size of the ship. The excursions were very limited. Christmas was not particularly evident, apart from a few trees and Carols sung on Christmas Eve. I believe this was the first time they had operated this cruise. Let's hope they improve on what we experienced.