Is Britannia Better?

After 4 years in the making, it was finally time for me to visit Britannia.

So, what were my impressions? It is a big ship no getting away from that but what is it that sets it apart from other ships?  P&O are traditionally British with a huge emphasis on history and heritage, apart from the Union Jack on the outside of the ship I could not see anything similar on the inside. It has a contemporary feel about it.   The atrium is always the show ground if you like, with a real wow factor. I must admit I did not get that, not to say it was not lovely but for me, not a wow factor.

The ship has inside or balcony or suites, no ocean views which is a bit different. The inside cabins were really spacious which was great, not a poky or dark room at all.  We stayed in a standard balcony cabin, this was lovely but smaller then some cabins I have been in. I think perhaps this is because a bit of the floor space is now for a “dressing area” as such. No wardrobes just a area blocked off from the bed, beside the bathroom. The bathroom was nice with thankfully a shower door and not a curtain, my pet hate! Nice toiletries from the White Company as a added bonus!  Huge TV on the wall,  tea and coffee, kettle, dressing table etc.  Balcony was nice, not a lot of room with the chairs and table.

The public areas I did see where very spacious, lovely pool area with plenty of seating. Really nice bar areas as well as the entertainment venues.

We did have a nice meal in the restaurant however, I did think the service was very slow but as it was a cruise industry “do” then I accept that, I just hope they quicken up a little for when clients are on board.  The food was nice with a special Marco Pierre White menu choice, a nice touch.  We passed the Indian restaurant, Sindu by Atul Kochhar that did look rather fab I must say.

There are many firsts on the ship such as the cookery club, the market cafe by Eric Lanlard the master patissier, the limelight club to name a few. There is a great British beer menu along with a great gin menu and the Glass house, home to 40 different wines around the world.

Will the Britannia appeal to everyone though? I think for first time cruisers it will. Those of you who are die hard P&O fans? I think a lot of people like P&O because of the tradition and service, this ship is so very different, it will be like Marmite, you will either love it or not like it – I cant say hate it.

The big question is would I sail on it? Yes I would, I do like it but…. and there is my problem, I cant think what the but is!  I am sure many of you will have a fantastic time on board, you really cant fault her. Maybe my expectations are higher then I thought.

The great British public will decide! For those of you who are due to go on board, please let me know your thoughts!