We chose this cruise in order to visit Christmas markets and see some places we'd never been before; namely Hamburg, Copenhagen and Oslo. The ship and the ports for the most part did not disappoint. It was our first time on Aurora. To be honest, I think I prefer larger ships like Ventura. Aurora was a lovely ship but I wouldn't say it was impressive. Our balcony cabin on A deck though small, was very functional and tidy, apart from the badly stained carpet. Our steward was attentive and pleasant. The only disappointment from my point of view was the Alexandria Restaurant. Although we had been allocated our requested table for two, it was so close to the next table that it may as well have been a table for four! The food choices were uninspiring, the portions small, and our desserts were surprisingly served in plastic sundae glasses. Our waiter seemed mainly interested in getting us in and out as quickly as possible. Needless to say, we only ate there one night, and dined after that in the Horizon self serve restaurant. We found the food choices and quality excellent, and the atmosphere very relaxed.

We booked excursions for many of our stops and were glad we had. The operation of the excursions was very efficient and the tour guides knowledgeable and friendly.

This was our first P&O cruise since 2008; we have been sailing with Cunard who I actually prefer. We will certainly sail with P&O again, but probably not on Aurora.