Left Southampton on a bitterly cold day, raining heavily at appointed embarkation time meant that luggage was piled up on pavement in the open, consequently top 2 cases and contents were soaked. [Note to RCI this never happened with P&O.] Just too many people trying to check in at the same time.
Statutory dinghy drill prior to sailing required long wait in open. We had coats and scarves but some were frozen. [Note to RCI P&O do this briefing in the lounges]
The ship is remarkable, stunning at first sight, with no expense spared on decor and some very comfortable chairs, although getting one on sea days requires early occupation. The central atrium or Promenade was mind-blowing at first with shops on both sides selling booze cigarettes and all sorts of useless tat. The pubs were a popular venue as long as you nursed your drinks. Buying a round of any size could result in early insolvency.