Overview

One of the oldest ships in an industry whose passengers tend to appreciate only the latest and greatest, Marco Polo was originally christened Alexandr Pushkin in 1965 and served as a Russian cruise liner until Orient Lines purchased her in 1991. Following two years of total rebuilding, she emerged as the one-of-a-kind Marco Polo. Some things couldn't be changed during her refit, such as the raised thresholds and slope of the decks; however, real structural positives are her ice-strengthened hull (important in Antarctica) and deep draft (for smooth sailing).

Most public rooms and even the swimming pool are located on Belvedere Deck, making it easy to learn your way around. That's where you'll find the Polo Lounge, popular for relaxing by day and for joining fellow passengers for cocktails in the evening, as well as the Ambassador Lounge, where cabaret and other shows take center stage.

Restaurants

The Seven Seas Restaurant, one of the loveliest art deco-inspired dining rooms at sea with etched-glass partitions and a Tiffany-style ceiling, serves breakfast and lunch on an open-seating basis; dinner is in two assigned seatings. Raffles offers breakfast and lunch buffets with tables inside or outdoors near the swimming pool and is the venue for a dinner alternative -- the extra-charge bistro that requires reservations. Poolside are a barbeque for grilled lunch items and a small ice cream bar; afternoon tea is served daily. Room service offers a Continental breakfast from 7 am until 10 am; from 11 am onward the menu consists of soup, sandwiches, and desserts.

Accommodations

Homey and quite comfortable, staterooms are furnished with a TV, hair dryer, mirrored vanity table, personal safe, and bathroom with shower. While pretty basic, the light-wood cabinetry contains plenty of storage for longer voyages. In addition, passengers in Category C and above are offered bathrobes for use during the cruise. Category A and Suites have sitting areas, a bath with combination tub and shower, and a refrigerator. Two Deluxe Suites have large windows and VCRs. Take care when selecting your cabin because not all twin beds can be converted to form a single larger bed. Two staterooms are wheelchair-accessible.