Pacific Aria Review

Many of the biggest changes are seen in the dining venues, of which there are 15 options: some are free; some incur an extra fee. A pleasant surprise is that the surcharges were ditched for the upscale Angelo's (Italian) and moody Dragon Lady (Asian) so if you get in quick and book before 8 am, you can be treated to some of the ship's best service and food in a luxurious setting. It's wonderful to open up these restaurants to everyone, not just those who can afford it; although it does seem a little crazy to get a five-course gourmet meal for nothing, yet you have to pay extra for a poolside ice-cream.

Replacing the buffet, The Pantry is reminiscent of a food court but offers better hygiene and less waste, with a good range of cuisines and not-so-bad queues. Waterfront, the main dining room, also has a more interesting menu, with a wide range of choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (See the Dining section of this review for more details.)

Aria's bars are another highlight (subject to how long it takes to get a drink). From relaxed to pumping, every ambience is covered. During the day, Ocean Bar is a hive of activity; by sunset, a cabana in the child-free Oasis is the place to unwind. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy Hunter Valley's Glandore Estate cellar door at sea, while cocktails are a specialty at Salt Grill Bar.

Live music permeates the ship in several venues. An added novelty is that the singers and musicians switch around to form different bands every day, performing jazz, funk, rock and R'n'B. If you're not a fan of the musicals in the theatre, hang out in the Blues Room, the hottest spot for a nightcap and toe-tap.

P&O has also had some fun with the daily programs, hosting chair aerobics and up-to-the-minute activities such as mindful colouring. Keep an eye out for the quirky artwork, too, especially the playful stuff around the main pool (which has a retractable roof, by the way) and the lifts.

The line has been targeting families for the past decade and this cool new vibe will appeal to parents in their 20s to 40s, as well as groups of friends and first-timers who may be put off by the trappings of traditional cruising. But good looks aren't everything, so don't expect a five-star experience in every other category, for this is not a five-star ship. Despite the refurbishment in 2015, Aria can't escape the reality that its hardware was built in 1994. Blocked toilets, leaks and minor flooding have affected some early sailings, and the untouched cabins and suites don't match the modern makeover -- although they are larger than the rooms on many other Australia-based ships.

When a ship is under new management with a new crew, teething troubles are to be expected, and our cruise sometimes seemed understaffed and overwhelmed. We waited an hour for breakfast in Waterfront and 20 minutes was the average for a drink. But that's as far as our complaints go. We sat back, relaxed and didn't let the hiccups taint our overall enjoyment. The waiters were always apologetic, hardworking and lovely, and -- like the majority of passengers we spoke to -- we had no major issues with our cabin, food or entertainment. P&O is striving to address its problems so a positive experience is consistent for everyone, and we are hopeful of smoother sailing once Aria has settled into its groove.