African Safari Club, Royal Star Review

Overall Rating

Friendliness, courtesy and professionalism of the crew, especially the restaurant and bar staff.
Our silver wedding anniversary on the last day of the cruise; they made all birthdays and anniversaries very special.
Good itinerary - beautiful islands.
Energy and enthusiasm of the Cruise Director.
Two day safari back in Kenya was a tremendous experience.
Great crowd of people on the cruise - we've never laughed so much!

Quality of transport used to transfer from Mombasa airport to the ship was poor.
Hot water supply on-board was inconsistent.
Chaotic immigration handling at Mombasa airport - people were charged different rates for visas depending on which officer they used.
Dolphin hotel in Mombasa is truly appalling - wouldn't go near it again!

We thoroughly enjoyed the Royal Star African Safari Club Secrets of the Seychelles cruise (but see comments above regarding the hotel in Mombasa, airport and transfer).

Yes, it's a small ship, but this allows not only closer anchorage to ports of call, but more intimacy with fellow passengers and crew who all learn passengers' names within a day or so. It is 50 years old, but this can add to its charm - lots of wood and brass work.

The staff - particularly the Filipino restaurant and bar staff were fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble. They were unfailingly friendly, full of good humour and fun. We had no hesitation of recognising this with a worthwhile gratuity.

Overall, the organised trips were good - lots of favourable comments from passengers. Only one slight disappointment for us which was partly due to the weather conditions on the day. If you only go on one trip in Mahe make it the half day to Moyenne - a beautiful island - real 'desert island' material with its own 'Crusoe'.

Entertainment is limited - it is a small ship - if you want full musical extravaganzas then you'll be disappointed. The Ukrainian dancers were great - two of the days were characterised by quite a heavy swell - how they kept to their routines we don't know. Different routines each day and a range of lovely costumes. We also had the advantage of a guest female singer on this trip. The show put on by the ship's crew was great fun.

The Valmers Trio are an acquired taste, but they were very professional, Valentino is an excellent guitarist and violinist. Their repertoire could be repetitive, but they were obliging; the 'singing' provided great amusement!

Overall, our silver wedding trip was a pleasurable and memorable event. The dinner was made extra special by the restaurant manager and his team.

Any holiday like this is as good as you make it. We were blessed with a great group of fellow passengers.