Embarkation at Southampton was easy, efficient and quick. Our cabin/stateroom was 'upgraded' from a deck 8 obstructed view balcony to a deck 6 in-hull balcony. Having read other reviews prior to leaving, I wasn't sure this was an upgrade I particularly wanted. However, on arrival we were happy enough with the cabin and the balcony. It's true though, that there is no view other than sky if you sit down whilst on the balcony - but it is very private and sheltered.
The cabin itself was clean, reasonably spacious and the bed very comfortable. Eddie our steward was friendly and unobtrusive. Room service was quick although a couple of times, we got a line busy message when we rang.
Food and Restaurants Britannia restaurant was lovely - understated dEcor and sophisticated food. The service at our table of 6 was amazing thanks to Ramon and Alexander. Food after the first night was excellent and lunch also very good in this restaurant. Arrived one morning for breakfast at 8.35am and was told the restaurant closed for breakfast at 8.30am although the daily newsletter said 9.00am. No budging the chap at the door though! There were a few disappointed people that morning. Normally we ate around 8.30ish in the Kings Court self-service restaurant. The food in Kings Court during the day was plentiful and reasonably good but the organization of breakfast some mornings left much to be desired. Too many times there was no marmalade or the mugs had run out and we were expected to have tea in a paper cup! The tea and coffee stations were badly organized as well - not a logical layout with the result that people were wandering about that area. Not really good enough for the 'White Star Service' that Cunard boasts.