The cruise was advertised as Christmas and New Year, but there was no atmosphere for either. The decorations looked as if they had been bought at Poundland not at all what we experienced on our previous Christmas Cruise to the Caribbean on Arcadia. The Christmas cake display was abysmal and the atrium decorations were very poor. Not at all what we expected. We expected a similar standard of decorations to that which we had previously enjoyed on Arcadia.

We were also disappointed with the Theatre group shows. Not with the energy or professional attitude of the cast members, but apparently the shows are on a rolling programme and the Theatre group only changes the shows every three years, so we were seeing shows we have seen on previous P&O cruises. Some of the costumes were well past their sell by date with torn flounces, 'V' shaped pieces let into the back of one costume and shorts which did not fasten. A poor showing.

We were 'upgraded' to a cabin with a bath, but we would have preferred just a shower cubicle and we were not allowed to change the upgrade. Everywhere is looking its age, with tatty carpets in the restaurant, well worn seats in the theatre and chipped paintwork everywhere. Not what we have come to expect from P&O. We know Oriana is due a refurbishment in November, but the cruise price did not reflect the poor quality of the ship. Read more