Firstly, I wanted to give more stars, I really did, but having had my first cruise in 2013 on Oriana which was wonderful, this one was just not worth all the money.
Embarkation was easy and at the exact time stated on our tickets. On board swiftly and all luggage was outside our cabin (E78 - outside, restricted view). Cabin was perfect, mid ship and above the prom deck so no need to use lifts much. Cabin was clean (apart from hair in the bath plug hole which should have been noticed really), also the little plastic holder for our cabin steward's details was empty. Cabin steward introduced himself in such a rushed way that I didn't catch his name and no towel animals - I know it's not important but the little personal touches were what made P&O special in my opinion.
Ate in the Belvedere for lunch most days if we were on board which was very nice and one of the things which I thought was better than the Oriana. We usually found a seat no problem or ate by the Neptune pool. Also tried the Neptune snack bar. Hotdogs were nice but I didn't like the burgers - tasted like cheap tinned ones.
Spacious and light considering the lifeboat restricting view. Midship so little movement felt. Plenty of storage and hangers.
Lovely place. They are working on the sea front so will be nicer next time.
Port ok, wouldn't go back to the same area on holiday.
Good for shopping.
It's just a port, didn't go into Southampton.