Having heard conflicting reports about P&O, we decided the launch of the new Britannia was the best time to try a P&O Cruise and judge for ourselves.

I must say our experience on board the Britannia was practically identical to our previous reviewer, Cragglerock. P&O had one opportunity to make a good impression on us, and they blew it with a chaotic embarkation. This was our 19th cruise with 6 other cruise lines, but our first with P&O. We have never had to wait more than 30 mins to get on board and enjoy lunch in the buffet restaurant. This time we waited 2 hours, missed our lunch and finally embarked at 4.15, followed by a lifeboat drill at 5.15, not a good start.

The cabin, as well as the ship's decor in general was beautiful, but the bathroom was miniscule, the smallest we have ever seen. It was a challenge to have a shower in it, and we are slim people. The balcony too was tiny in comparison to other ships, you couldn't stretch out your legs on the deck chairs. One plus point that we really did think was excellent was the walkin wardrobe area without doors. Excellent idea. Read more