We have just returned from our first P&O cruise on board the Oceana. I have to say that before we went I was a little disconcerted after reading so many negative reviews so I'm pleased to say that we found very little to be negative about.
Firstly, who called the Oceana a rust bucket??? Yes, there is a little rust here and there but really nothing worth mentioning. You would have to be very picky to point it out.
The embarkation process is a breeze with luggage being taken care of from airport check in until it reaches your cabin, also disembarkation when the cases are collected from your cabin and not seen until you reach the carousel at your destination (although you need to be organised as cases are collected before 11pm on the night before departure). Our flight was very early and we arrived at Oceana shortly after 10am. Of course we headed straight for the buffet for a little something to keep us going, only to find that everyone else had the same idea. Tip for future early arrivals - miss the early queue if you can and wait for brunch to be served when a lot of people have already eaten and left.
Very clean and comfortable. Big fat pillows, whiter than white sheets and duvet covers, efficient shower. No problems with the plumbing.
Didn't take any excursions as previously visited Florence and Pisa. Walked around Livorno which is an "ok" port. Not the prettiest.
It is very easy to get to Pompeii from the port of Naples. Just walk through the port, past the taxis touting for business and you will see tour buses. We took a bus to Pompeii (40 minute ride) which cost 7 Euro return each. The bus drops you right beside the ticket office and entrance to Pompeii was 15 Eu each, gave us a guide too. No need to take expensive excursions from your ship.
Our free shuttle took us directly to the old City. You will need Kuna to walk the walls. We paid on our debit card which was no problem. You will also need Kuna to buy anything in the old City but once outside they are happy to take Euros. A short walk from the City Wall is the cable car. Fantastic views from the top.
Rained hard but still enjoyed it.
Port is ok, nothing to shout about. Possibly missed something by not taking an excursion here but no reports of anyone telling us how lovely it was.
Wow, what a beautiful place. We were taken ashore by tender here. Really, really impressed with this place. Not at all what we expected.