Check your bar receipt before signing!

I’m just back from the Oriana mini cruise from Southampton to Zeebrugge – you know the one which had members of a family group ejected due to their unruly behaviour?

We were celebrating my granddaughter’s 18th Birthday, and never heard a thing about all the commotion until I got home later that day and saw the headlines! I’m a bit miffed that I missed out on witnessing such a newsworthy event!  I must say P&O were very discreet about the whole sorry affair, and managed to keep the incident away from the majority of passengers, and at the same time gave a strong message to those  who misbehave and spoil other people’s enjoyment.  So a big brownie point and thumbs up to P&O!

Anyway, back to the heading – yes folks, ALWAYS check your bar receipt before you sign for it!   I did notice and was ‘victim to’, a bit of a scam when ordering drinks, which you should all be aware of.  I ordered a Vodka, assuming it would be the Smirnoff, however the waiters automatically charged for the Grey Goose voddie, which is much dearer…. naughty.  I only got caught out the once, but then made a point of checking the bar receipt before signing.  I would strongly suggest you do the same as I suspect this scam is widespread and includes all Premium Beers, Wines & Spirits and not exclusive to P&O Oriana .

Perhaps its because these mini cruises are seen as a bit of a ‘booze cruise’ popular with large family groups,  hens and stag parties, too ‘inebriated’ or having too good a time to sit and check the receipt every round…

On a happier note!

! have to say we had a brilliant time on this classy ship.  Decorated Art Deco style, a nice size, less than 2000 people, as I’m not a fan of the mega ships.

We parked at the port, and our check in time for embarkation was 2:45pm.  It was seamless, efficient and quick, so much so that we were in our cabins, and unpacked by 3:15pm!

We had booked 2  JD Outsides – these cabins are located quite low down, and forward of the ship and have porthole windows.  I had my reservations about the location but I needn’t have worried.  I wasnt seasick, and wasnt disturbed by any engine noise. They are a little ‘bijou’ or compact, but as we spent so little time in them, cabin size wasnt an issue.

Time to explore the ship before Muster Drill.  We found the Lounge Bars – Harlequins for late night disco’s,  Andersons, more laid back and peaceful.

The Theatre Royal, which was a good size, and where we enjoyed  a fantastic show by the BEATLES EXPERIENCE. A fantastic trip down memory lane, with all the audience singing along to the old favourites!  Even my granddaughter who hadnt heard of the Beatles, knew some of the words!

The Lord’s Tavern, which was my personal favourite, with the obligatory Karaoke, (I’m an observer, not a participant by the way…) and if you fancied taking in a film you could relax in the beautifully decorated Chaplins Cinema.

I cant comment on the rest of the public areas, speciality restaurant etc, as I didnt use them, but they all looked very inviting and were beautifully decorated.

There’s plenty to do, whatever the weather.  The outdoor pools are heated, and I saw quite a few brave souls swimming and enjoying the hot tub!

We dined in the Peninsular Restaurant, and I found the food on offer very good.  Varied, good quality and delicious!  Served by courteous friendly staff.  On formal night you had the choice of a Marco Pierre White Menu at no extra charge, as well as the ‘standard fayre’.  I opted to try a MPW and wasn’t disappointed.  Had Lobster Bisque for the first time ever and it was beautifully cooked and presented.  No complaints there!  We ate in the Buffet Restaurant once, and the food was good, with a varied choice, so again, no complaints.

Next time:  Penguin Suits – LBD’s -Bruges Christmas Market and Utter Chaotic Disembarkation!

#oriana #beatlesexperience #p&o #marcopierrewhite