There may be validity in that statement about unrealistic expectations, perhaps created by unrealistic marketing. A perfect example is toy commercials - the toy is never quite as neat in real life as on those commercials.

NOTHING is perfect.

Every ship has its pros and cons as does every line. We just have to find what suits us best.

Often how much we like a cruise is chance. Did we meet people we bonded with, did we happen to find a waiter who we felt was great or did we happen to hit the one waiter who was not the best.

Not all staff are created equal and they are ordinary people who can have a bad day once in a while.

I have mentioned this before and I have never forgotten this experience.

We were on the Song with a magician. He got a standing ovation. People loved his show. They were talking about it the next day and looking forward to his return act.

The next week we stayed on board.

The same magician the same act and it bombed. People were complaining about the act and not many turned up for his second show.

It was quite amazing to see the difference in the audience. The show was truly identical.

WHY? The first week the seas were calm and we had a great port day. The second week it was rough and rainy and we had a day at sea.

NOTHING whatsoever to do with the magician and yet I am sure the ratings on the comments cards were from an A rating to a Z rating.

Such is life. You just have to look at the big picture.