Norwegian Fjords 05-17.05.2019

Deluxe Balcony Cabin D28

This was not our first cruise on Arcadia and we both felt the vessel was beginning to look tired. We would not have liked to have been on a cruise of any longer duration.

With regards to cleanliness. Our cabin was kept spotless by our cabin stewardess Beverly, our reason for the five stars. Towels in the bathroom changed everyday. We both agreed we did not believe the bed linen to have been changed as often as on our last cruise. With regards to the cleanliness of the remainder of the vessel. As I have previously stated the fittings were beginning to look tired and ready for replacement but were kept clean by the excellent staff. During the cruise due to a number of blowers,what appeared to be work being carried out and several toilet cubicles being closed there appeared to be a smell of effluence at times on decks two and three and one occasion when we visited The Globe theatre. We were also disappointed that a large number of passengers were not using the gel provided when entering the restaurants and boarding the vessel leaving us open to possible infection

With regards to comfort. We found all lounges on both decks two and three at all times cold and therefore not comfortable to remain for long periods of time. Although this did not inconvenience us, work was been carried out on the folding roof over the pool, which I believe had been damaged by a storm in December. On visiting it sounded like a steel works.

With regards to food and including service. We took up the option of freedom dining, and been happy to share a table did not have to wait to be seated. There was a good selection of food on the menu and we did have reason to criticise the food, knowing full well that any complaint would have been dealt with immediately. Our visit to the Ocean Grill was one not to be missed, the food and service was excellent and a visit to our table by the Chef topped our visit. Well done Ocean Grill. Throughout our cruise the staff were excellent in all departments even the guys painting outside on deck acknowledged us.

With regards to evening entertainment. Anyone travelling with P & O will know that throughout the cruise entertainment is mainly centred on singing and dancing with the occasional comedian or other form of act thrown in. Not to everyone’s taste. The enthusiasm and hard work by the ‘Headliners’ would take a lot of beating in a West End musical.

Overall, this vessel is ready for a ‘refit’ we would not like to think we were going on a round the world cruise. In efforts to reduce prices a certain number of items have been withdrawn i.e. bathrobes, but then again ‘tips’ are included. One asks who will be the first not to tip their cabin steward and waiters. The enthusiasm of the staff make up towards the short fall of the vessel.

We have cruised on several of the P & O vessels and other lines. Come on P & O let see you get back the standards we expect.