First trip with P&O - large ship, mixed clientele, would consider again

Item: Ventura
Rating: 3.9
Author: cunardcruisers

Ventura Cruise Review to Europe

cunardcruisers

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Reviews: 2

Helpful Votes: 70

Overall rating:

3.9 out of 5

Atlantic Coast / Iberia

Sail date: August 23, 2019

Ship: Ventura

Cabin type: Balcony

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 5 years ago

Review summary

Enjoyable first experience on P&O many aspects were very well managed different and enjoyable. The cabins were first class - I just felt that had we not used the retreat area at extra cost there would have been certain similarities to Butlins in other areas where often there would be more demand than supply and the service chain breaks down

Embarkation

5 out of 5

Excellent

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

4 out of 5

Buffet limited, main restaurants good although first attempt at freedom dining needed planning better by us, speciality restaurants very good

Onboard Activities

4 out of 5

Retreat/spa - very good Quizzes - very good although high demand for these so seating was a premium , shows fab, professional dance couple were sublime but we felt using the atrium was cramped and a poor venue for such an act.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Excellent - we felt s better offering than we are used to in Cunard

Service and Staff

3 out of 5

Generally felt service was lacking either in personalisation and/or numbers often waited around to be dealt with or assisted. Felt like we were a conveyor belt item rather than a Hunan. Ordering of food and drinks all done via an iPad seemed to make the process protracted and lengthy . Cabin steward however was first class and very attentive using initiative well to service our room and support us.captain we thought was fab great sense of humour with a laid back but attentive and assertive attitude as required.

Ship Quality

4 out of 5

Very thorough cleaning and attention to issues when raised

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5

Totally fabulous deck 10 excellent with larger balcony cabin was very comfortable and well laid out - excellent cabin steward