Overview

Launched in 1972, the former Royal Viking Star was indeed a star in the high-end cruise market. Built for the luxurious, long-distance cruises for which Royal Viking Line was known, today's Black Watch retains much of her inherent grace. Passengers have plenty of space, both on deck and inside, including two swimming pools and a large fitness center and spa -- unusual for a ship of this vintage.

Piper's Bar and the nautically-themed Lido Lounge are popular spots for a leisurely drink and conversation, while the Observatory is a spacious lounge high atop the ship that is the ideal spot to claim a seat when Black Watch is entering or leaving ports of call.

Restaurants

Breakfast in the main dining room -- and in a smaller annex off to the side -- is generally open seating, while lunch and dinner are in two assigned seatings. The Garden Café is a casual buffet option for meals and late-night snacks and, while it is pleasantly reminiscent of a garden, there is no outdoor seating. For casual snacking options near the pools, try the Poolside Café and Marquee Pool Bar. Light meals from room service are complimentary and available from 10 am to 10 pm; beverages can be ordered round the clock.

Accommodations

Black Watch's heritage is apparent in the spaciousness of cabins and suites that were designed for long-distance voyages. All are equipped with a television, telephone, a lockable drawer for personal items, and a hairdryer; many categories have a bathtub/shower combination. Suites have balconies, sitting areas, and refrigerators. Only the top two suite categories have minibars and either VCRs or DVD players; guests in these cabins also receive welcome-aboard champagne, flowers, and fruit basket and bathrobes for use during the cruise. Numerous cabins are outfitted for single occupancy; sole occupancy of a cabin with two or more berths is subject to availability. Four cabins are designed for wheelchair accessibility.