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 Cruise Reviews

Tropical Delights 7 - 22 Nov

Reviewed By: Boneham, Derby on 30th Nov 2008
Cruise Line: P&O Cruises Times cruised before: 3-5
Cruise Ship: Ventura Sailed: November, 2008
Destination: Caribbean Age: 46-55
After reading previous reviews of Ventura we didn't know what to expect but after waiting 18 months for this cruise we tried to go with an open mind. I can honestly say we had a great holiday on a lovely ship with very good crew. The atrium does lack the wow factor of Oceana but is still impressive. The decor of all the bars, clubs and dining rooms especially The Ramblas was very good. The entertainment on the whole was good, the Ventura Theatre Co put on some good shows although we found the 11.00 show too late so got ready for the 7.00 or 7.30 show before 2nd sitting dinner at 8.30. On previous reviews I noticed the amount of children on the cruises during the summer season, on our cruise we were told there were 84 children on board which no-one could moan about. It is advertised as a family ship which means children, if you want to try Ventura minus the children I suggest pick a Caribbean destination. On the dress code queries I would say 95% of people dressed up on formal nights and other nights people still put on nice dresses sparkly tops etc, there were not many people who looked liked they should be at Butlins as stated in other reviews. On the sun bed debate we found this didnt really materialise yes the beds round the pools did get taken early but there are plenty of areas with sun beds and not far from the pools. The staff we found to be very helpful how they remembered your name with over 3,000 people on board I'll never know. Plenty of entertainment in the evenings with shows, singers, comedians, classical music, and some great deck parties - you know you are on holiday when you are dancing on deck at midnight with a cocktail in hand and it is still very warm. On the whole if you have booked a cruise on Ventura and are slightly worried - dont be I'm sure you will have a lovely time.
Quality of Food5
Bay Tree 2nd sitting. The food on the whole was very good, if there is nothing on the menu you fancy there is a choice of plain chicken or steak etc which the waiters are happy to organise for you. Breakfast in the Waterside no trouble finding somewhere to sit and a good range of food even Marmite for my toast.
Entertainment5
Ventura Theatre Co very good. Best comedian was Peter Piper and Steve Larkins as Freddy Mercury very good. Enrico on the acoustic guitar in the Ramblas made a nice change.
Shore Excursions4
We booked excursions online before going but in future in some destinations especially beach visits we will make our own way in local taxis. The Ariel Tram on St Lucia was very good.
Staff5
Our 2 waiters Frank and Tanmoy in Bay Tree very nice and attentive. Also our cabin steward Clevy in R315 looked after the room very well .
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities4
Plenty of talks and demonstrations during the day if you feel the need.
Cabins4
Inside cabin on Riviera deck. Adequate size although bathroom a bit on small side. The bed and quilt so comfy we fell a sleep straight away, we did hear slight noise that sounded like walls creaking but nothing major.
Overall Rating5
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Comment by Barnes, Barnsley (01 Dec 08 11:24) about this REVIEW
So nice to here a positive review regarding Ventura. My wife, myself and my two kids (twins of 11) are going on Caribbean cruise on 5th Dec and have had it booked for almost two years. We to have booked ariel tram in St. Lucia and also a glass bottom boat tour in Aruba. So glad you had a great time but the only thing I'm a bit apprehensive about is that we are on freedom dining, and most of the negative reviews are on this subject, so if anybody can put my mind at rest it will be much appreciated. Thanks.
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Comment by Jackson, Leeds (01 Dec 08 16:28) about a COMMENT by Barnes (01 Dec 08 11:24)
Firstly ignore the comments you have read and go with an open mind. We did the re location of Ventura from Southampton to Caribbean with 9 sea days so had plenty of time to explore the ship. Freedom dining was ok as long as you don't mind sharing with different people (and telling the same story about yourself) every evening. Only once were we given a pager and that went off within 5 minutes so no complaints there. Food is same as club dining and service excellent. Obviously if you go with 300 people after a show will be busy but just go to one of the bars for a pre dinner drink. We did early show, drink, meal about 9ish, or, dine between 7 and 9 and do the late show. Whatever you choose have a lovely cruise. I'm sure you will.
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