Arcadia 7 night Spain & Portugal in a suite.
Arcadia Cruise Review
Contributor Level:
First Mate
Cruises: 7+ cruises
Reviews: 5
Helpful Votes: 95
Review summary
Overall the cruise was very enjoyable with a fantastic cabin, interesting ports, enjoyable entertainment and hit and miss food (mostly miss imho). Service was ok but not out of this world. Its not the fault of the crew, they are hard working and friendly but are chronically overworked and dont havevenough time to stop and chat properly to you like they used to. The ship is old but nowhere near as bad as some reviews suggest. It's going in for a refit in Nov 24 and I'm sure it will be even lovelier after a freshen up.Embarkation
Had priority boarding as we were in a suite, but whole operation was efficient and fast. Arrived at 1150 and there were no crowds.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
MDR food was poor quality overall. Service was ok but waiters these days are so overworked they can't stop to talk or get to know you.
Onboard Activities
Plenty of daytime activities for those that want to do them, including craft activities in the Ocean Room.
Entertainment
Usual things like quizzes, guest entertainers, production shows, guest talkers. Very subjective but most seemed to like them . New 'Astonishing' Stephen Mulhern show was quite good. Pulse house band were very good in The Globe.
Service and Staff
Staff are great but so overworked they don't have time to chat. Bar service can be slow at peak times.
Ship Quality
Old ship but pretty good condition indoors bit rusty here and thereoutside.
Cabin / Stateroom
Very spacious suite with lots of well laid out storage, bathroom with whirlpool bath and double sinks, separate dressing room and large balcony. Dated decor but it didn't detract from all the plusses. Very big and comfortable bed.
Ship tip
Don't expect a 19 year old ship to look or feel brand new and you won't be too disappointed. Opinions on food and entertainment are very subjective, make up your own mind. I was disappointed myself with the buffet and mdr. Ocean Grill was great and suite breakfasts in Sindhu were very good too.
Thumbs up
0
Ports of call
Head in to Porto on a tour or shuttle bus. A tuk tuk tour is highly recommended. Try the local custard tarts.
Good amenities close to where the ship docks. Variety of shore excursions available. Would highly recommend a boat trip to the beautiful nature resort at Cies Island.
Always a popular stop with lots to do and town close enough to walk to if you're fit and able. A lot of construction work going on near the quayside which was noisy.
Disembarkation
Priority disembarkation quick and painless.
Traveler Photos
