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First but not the last cruise with P&O |
| Reviewed By: Beach , Solihull on 3rd Dec 2008 |
| Cruise Line: P&O Cruises |
Times cruised before: 3-5 |
| Cruise Ship: Aurora |
Sailed:
October,
2008 |
| Destination: Caribbean |
Age: 65+ |
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I would like to add my comments to those previously aired regarding the Aurora cruise to the Caribbean in October. We hadn't sailed with P&O before but were very impressed with the ship - so many venues for different activities. We had about twelve days at sea and were never bored. In fact, there was so much to do you couldn't cover it all. The lectures were excellent, the craft and art classes likewise.
Dining was fine. It was great to be waited on at breakfast and lunch and not have to help yourself. On the few days we had lunch in the Orangery (self service) the food was fine but the venue itself somehow left a lot to be desired. It was like eating in a cheap cafe, a total contrast to the other eateries. We heard the comments about the food in general on the shipe being on a poorer level than before but as we had no previous experience of this line we couldn't comment. We just enjoyed it- there was plenty of choice and the service was first class; the waiters did everything they could to please.
Accommodation was good - we had an inside cabin for the first time. There was enough space, it was kept clean although the carpet could have done with a shampoo. One thing about an inside cabin, it encourages you to get out and about rather than stay in the cabin. Would definitely opt for inside again.
Entertainment was quite good. Peter Piper was outstanding but first place goes to the Headliners, the on board theatre group. They were fantastic and received standing ovations. They could not be faulted. Although they were all so very good, one of the dancers, Hannah Park, stood out. She danced with the whole of her body from the tips of her fingers to the tips of her toes, she just threw herself into it. Remember the name, she will be a star one day. Why they had to do two shows in the night club - Carmens - I do not know, there were never enough seats and tempers got very frayed at times.
There were also some excellent classical concerts on board. Regret not being able to attend them all.
We loved all the island-cruises-summer-holidays/">islands except maybe St. Lucia, only for the fact that wherever you were, in the street, on the beach, there were hawkers. Fair enough they have to make a living, but they would not take no for an answer - almost as bad as our experience in Egypt. I know they have to make a living but this was way over.
We took two tours, the Rainforest Tramway in Dominica and the Sugar Train in St. Kitts. Both thoroughly enjoyable. If the tours had been at a better price we would have taken more but instead managed to see most places on our own. Perhaps a better experience because you are mixing with the locals - all lovely people, especially in Antigua and Tortola. Once we had learnt to differentiate between being quoted Caribbean dollars and USA dollars, everything was plain sailing.
Just one thing, something we disliked totally, was that on the last morning on getting back to our cabin there was an envelope waiting for us from our cabin girl with a note suggesting a tip. We had a tip ready but were waiting to see her to present it; we were certainly not going to disembark without giving her something but if ever that happens again we will leave without leaving a tip at all. Sorry, but we don't like it and if anyone from a cruise line ever reads these reviews, please take note and pass it on.
All round, a thoroughly enjoyable trip. Well organised and good value for money. It will not be our last cruise with P&O.
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| Ate mostly in the Medina Restaurant. Lunch sometimes in the Orangery - didn't rate the venue. Cafe Bordeaux for lunch was excellent. | | Entertainment |  |
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| | Children's Facilities | n/a |
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Happy HOLIDAY's
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