JUNE 26- JULY 3RD 2024 Where do I start as a newbie to cruises- SHIP- First impression of the ship- very clean and tidy!! I was surprised at the size of our cabin- it was larger than expected. We weren't given the choice to upgrade by our booking company (in retrospect, I think the upgrade was incorporated into our bill and we were told that we would be either up or down) We ended up below deck and I loved it!! The port holes were super cool and I preferred our cabin with the feel of being in a boat when not on deck . I got some arty pics from the port holes and closing them at night was very satisfying (SO much better than curtains) When open, the light from the water reflection on the roof of our cabin was super soothing and the air conditioning was a fabulous retreat from the heat throughout the day. We set off early some mornings and the start of the engine was a wake-up call (but not abrupt). However, after the engines fired, both my partner and I found it very soothing and fell back asleep to the gentle sound. It was only the desire to get up on deck and enjoy the journey, that meant we ended up setting an alarm. I really appreciated the use of a safe in our cabin as I worry about my valuables when I'm on holiday. Our single beds were super comfy. We both slept very well (I suffered from insomnia prior to our trip. I took meds with me but didnt need to use them) There was also storage under our beds and ample amount of hanging and clothes space. I was very impressed. The bathroom was spacious and the shower was quality re pressure and temperature setting. We tried not to request a towel change, but when we did, we were met with friendly and accommodating staff. Upper deck space was fantastic and use of the hot tub was great and cooling in the heat. The bar prices were initially surprisingly high but when on land, we discovered that they were actually very good on board in comparison. CARERING- I am dangerously allergic to shell fish and I don't eat meat. The chef and stewards were absolutely on the job with explaining what breakfast food had meat or shellfish in. Come lunch and dinner (and we tourists moved around seating a lot).. they were, again, very perceptive to my dietary needs, right down to the sauces. They also placed seperate serving utensils aside when my fellow tourists were using vegetable spoons in the meat dishes. Meal presentation was lovely, ample variety, and the food was so good that my parter and I left the cruise, a few pounds heavier...EEK! Come event nights, the stewards were very entertaining and engaged. The atmosphere was always fun, friendly and welcoming. For my birthday, they baked me a lovely cake and made my day quite special. CREW- such a lovely bunch of people. The first mate and ship owner were happy to oblige when I asked questions. Antonia (the owner) permitted me to a ride in the tender with the first mate, for my birthday. I got to take video and photos of the boat and appreciate it's beauty. Antonia, was such a lovely person.. very fun and friendly. I instantly warmed to her as if we had been friends for years. It was evident that the crew had a very tight camaraderie and worked hard together. The boat was kept clean and tidy and staff were incredibly professional. I wished that we were able to spend some more time with the crew but they were indeed incredibly professional in affording guests their experience, privacy and space. I am neither wealthy or retired- and so the recommended tip was quite shocking for my purse...but by day 8, I sure as heck felt that the crew deserved every penny. On our cruise, we chatted to fellow passengers about larger cruises and the feedback was dim. I am super happy that we went on a small cruise and this one in particular. It was intimate, and very enjoyable. It fits my desired environment of sun, safety, good food, few people, great space and a truly memorable holiday. I'd give these guys 5 stars all day long. A few boats do a similar cruise but I'd go Adriatic Pearl before anything else. Much love to the crew of the Adriatic Pearl.