I love your quote.. A much more civilized way to get to Europe.. Do you mean instead of the hectic airports? lol I truly agree. I used to love flying but as of late it is much less desired than a relaxed cruise across the pond. I usually fly to Europe and return via cruise, but I think my next trip will be cruising both ways as flying has become quite the inconvenience..
I like an upfront fee. I in fact leased a car, no hidden fees, and drove around Europe for 2 months. No hidden port fees on my cruise home either, or no hoops at any port, which there were many.
I visited 8 countries last fall by cruise, car and plane. I have never once been charged a fee just to sit on a ship and not even get off! I resent it!