This was a last minute decision. We always wanted to try P&O have heard some wonderful reviews from others we had met aboard other lines. We got to the port in plenty of time but were unfortunately turned away at the gate as we were told that there was an IT issue and that boarding was to be delayed by at least an hour. Could not park up just had to venture in to Southampton on football match day. Not raining so we parked up and waited. When the time came we went in as usual and parked up and had the luggage taken away. This was a new ship for us so we took our time getting to know where everything was. Sailed on time but we could sense that all was not well. No condiments on the table and had to ask for these which were then promptly taken away. So what really had happened was that there was a very large outbreak of Norovirus at the end of the last cruise and the crew were playing catch up to get everything clean. OK these things happen but it was surprising to be given misinformation by the gate security and also when I phoned up the day before asking what time to arrive - some passengers had been sent texts but for whatever reason we were not. This is the start of a series of lack luster efforts to contain what must have been a serious situation. Consistency is the clue here and unfortunately the crew and their managers did not have a single one between them. Condiments off the table but sugar bowl on the table. Sometimes you had to cleanse your hands others times not. Anyway it settled down later in the cruise and normal service was restored - eventually.

Only 4 ports and the weather was great so we enjoyed them all especially Oporto. Looking forward to going to Cherbourg where we had booked a trip. Unfortunately the Captain had a bit of the jitters and we could not dock as there was a light shower mid Atlantic - refund given no problem. OK better safe than sorry but I have certainly seen and docked in worse weather. That said we were looking forward to the promenade deck. Unfortunately this was only open at the bow when we left Vigo - every other time it was closed due to high winds - never heard such rubbish but there again this kind of summed up the Captains attitude - lax on some things like hygiene but over cautious on others.

Dined in the Bay-tree restaurant which like the other restaurants is a single deck affair. Got the impression I was going to the back of a shelf and found it quite claustrophobic. Read more