We booked a first cruise from Southampton to the Western Mediterranean on P&O's Oceana. Ports of call were Cartagena, Barcelona, St Raphael, Livorno, Alghero, Gibraltar, and La Coruna.

We went for a cruise because we had heard that teenagers do their own thing on board and have a great time. We have two teenagers. They did make friends and meet up with others their own age after dinner and stayed up late - but they were disappointed there was only one place open in the early hours that under 18s could frequent: the Cafe Jardin. I think the waiters working there deserve a bonus! My son said that they were always kind to the young people even when they were joking around. We were impressed with all of the staff who were skilled in their particular job, polite and friendly.

There were a lot of young children on board. Many were very cute and funny. One lady got very grumpy with a small boy who was having a tantrum in the plaza - I don't know why she booked a cruise in the school holidays when prices are higher and there are bound to be more children on board. Read more