As a new cruiser I learnt so much in a short space of time and can't wait for my next cruise armed with all my new found knowledge. The week wasn't without its dramas on occasions, but I overall a fabulous experience I am very thankful I could have!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Super quick and efficient. Easy. Just walked straight through with no problems. Staff brilliant
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Buffet bit limited for vegetarians, but it's a miracle they cater for us at all so I'm very thankful. I was well fed and watered for the duration of the cruise, but it was nothing special. I am a solo cruiser so found it difficult to juggle crowds, my bag, my drink and serve myself food without a tray. Made eating a bit stressful but wouldn't stop me cruising again. Absolutely loved the poolside pizza and burgers (they offered veggie burger!woop!) Had room service several times and that was faultless and yummy on all occasions and very quick and easy. I didn't feel confident enough to use MDR as solo traveller, but that was my own fault, maybe next time?
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Lots going on! So much I had to write lists and prioritise what I was going to do. Highlights included the gym, spa and dance classes, the shops, the cinema, the theatre and the swimming and whirl pool facilities.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Amazing shows every night. Couldn't fault them. Great theatre, brilliant cast, sound and lighting fab, mixture of song and dance for all tastes. Theatre staff very friendly. Lovely atmosphere.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
90%. cabin stewards were top notch! George was fantastic. Entertainment staff friendly and went out of their way to smile and chat. Buffet staff again fabulous! Reception staff great. Excursion staff made life so easy, super efficient and smooth. Bar staff looked exhausted and were pretty snappy at times, maybe not very happy in their roles? Under staffed? They all work so hard and I only knock a star because of a few isolated incidents where I received negative customer service
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Found my way around easily. Cleanliness very good, staff always seen cleaning and tidying in all areas of ship.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Good size. Clean. Staff friendly. A wonderful comfortable home for the week
Ship tip
Don't forget to wildlife spot from your balcony or prom deck. I saw dolphins every day, sometimes multiply times per day and my first ever whale sighting too! A worrying lack of birds though!
The sail in and out is out of this world!!! One of the highlights of my trip. Lisbon is a beautiful city. I went on P&O excursion to sintra. Fascinating town with lots of see and do. On this occasion I found the layout of the day maybe too restrictive (would of been nice to maybe look round the castle and gardens on your own then meet to walk down to the town together before free time in town?) Otherwise a brilliant day. Hour before sail away spent watching dolphins in the Tagus river so keep an eye out
Terminal is full of history and very convenient museum next door. P&O excursion to Bayeux today. Fabulous town to walk around. The tapestry museum was fantastic, so well laid out. Cathedral was beautiful as was the river by the poppy shop. I did want to get out to the war graves, but not enough time, it would of been the cherry on cake if coach had included that on way home. I must dock one star as this was the only time an excursion felt a bit chaotic at times. The group left me behind at one point, luckily I caught up, but keep your wits about you!
Did P&O excursion to cies island. Lovely boat ride. Would recommend if you like nature, beaches, walking or getting away from crowds. Wine and snacks included on way back. Lots of interesting statues in Vigo port.
Lovely beach near by. Port terminal is beautiful. I did P&O excursion to guimareas. Good morning out, interesting town, perfect mix of guided info and free time. Only wish it had been maybe an hour longer? Weather was glorious!
Self disembarked. Carried own suitcase so no scrum to find my case. Best all the crowds. Walked straight off ship in to a taxi for train station, easy!
Welcome to the wonderful world of cruising. Appreciate your detailed review. Glad you enjoyed your cruise. Hope you continue to cruise and keep finding it enjoyable. I personally think every cruise is a learning experience.
A tip for eating in the Waterside or any buffet after sanitising your hands pick a table and leave your bag or jacket on the seat, we do this all the time and never had a problem.
Enjoy your next cruise 🛳
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