Ventura Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We have just returned from the above Canary Islands cruise. As with our previous trips on Ventura the standards in most cases were very high. Embarkation did not go smoothly as it started 15 minutes late and it appeared that the whole 3000 passengers were in the hall. There was minimum crowd control as people were milling around often in the queue areas when letters were called. At one time there were about 3 separate queues trying to merge into the main one.
I must take issue with some previous reviews complaining about food in the restaurants and attitude of staff. We were freedom dining and the food was of a very high standard. Those passengers who felt quality was poor but found the buffet choice on deck 15 to be much better I feel were looking for quantity ie heap your plate and help yourself to several desserts. Restaurant was fine dining whereas the buffet was a typical eat as much as you like.
All members of staff that we encountered could not have been more pleasant and helpful.
Cabin Review
Outside Twin with Balcony and Shower
Spotless and Ranjitth always had cabin cleaned speedily. Carpet would have benefited from a steam clean but no big deal
Port Reviews
Southampton
This is an embarkation port but if you are in the city the day before joining cruise the town is well worth a visit. Plenty shops,bars etc and some interesting historical buildings too.
Lisbon
A favourite port of ours. A good place for a walk along the sea front to the famous bridge. There are also some very nice restaurants at the marina near the bridge. Usually cruise lines put on a shuttle bus into town which is also worth a visit
Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
The nicest port in the Canaries where you can just wander off the ship and within 10 minutes be in the town which is very pretty.
Madeira (Funchal)
Excellent port. We took the shuttle bus into town and it is lovely,particularly the old parts. What added to our enjoyment was the fact we had a warm sunny day to enjoy it all