We have just returned from the first sector from Southampton to Dubai on Arcadia's Grand Odyssey (World Cruise).

CONDITION - The ship missed her planned refit in December and that may explain why there was more rust visible than one would normally see. This meant the crew were spending more time than usual on chipping off rust and repainting. On our sector this resulted in sections of the promenade deck being roped off each day for the maintenance work. Otherwise, although she is showing her age with general wear and tear, she appears to be reasonably well maintained.

CABIN - When entering our cabin for the first time, we were immediately confronted by a very strong smell of stale tobacco smoke. I asked our cabin steward if the previous occupants had been smoking in the cabin, but as he had only just joined the ship he did not know. He was, however, shocked at just how strong the smell was, as were others who came to inspect the cabin. Read more