We spent a week on Arcadia from and to Southampton between 26 June and 3 July 2012 visiting the Norwegian Fjords. The whole week was most enjoyable despite some periods of dismal weather; Bergen and Stavanger were both seen in sunshine, and Flamm and Olden, whilst not always sunny were very impressive. On board, we have nothing but praise for all the crew and staff. The Entertainment Team, well-led by Leon de Ste Croix, were first class and The Headliners Theatre Company were simply outstanding, putting on two very high quality shows. On deck, the parties were always good, but the 'Great British Sailaway Party' from Stavanger, where Aurora was moored alongside and who slipped just before Arcadia, was most memorable and made us all very proud to be British. It was also lovely to see several Stavanger residents waving huge Union Flags from their gardens and cheering us as we left.
On the service side, praise is also due to the chefs and stewards who made dining so pleasant an experience. Equally, our cabin steward, Hansel, could not do enough for us and was forever a smiling face to brighten our day.
It was a great shame that the end of this cruise was spoilt by the English Summer! The plan to have all 7 P&O liners moored together in Southampton had taken a long time to plan and should have been a marvellous event, but the mist and drizzle dampened spirits. Full marks to all who were involved in the event and our commiserations to P&O.