Not The Usual Standard

This was our fourth cruise with P & O and, while we enjoyed it, the little touches which we have come to expect were often missing.
We were asked, as Priority Boarding passengers, to arrive at the terminal at noon, though this was later amended at 24 hours’ notice to 12.45 pm. On arrival at this time, we were told to return at 3pm. By this time, passengers who had been told to arrive during the afternoon had also come to the terminal and mayhem ensued. Not a satisfactory start to a holiday!
We understand that this was as a result of Arcadia having returned on the same morning from a 99 day cruise. It would surely have been more sensible to allow 24 hours in which to clean, restock and refuel and fully prepare the ship for her next trip. This would have ensured fewer stressed staff and passengers and given an entirely more professional impression.
We had been informed that the usual “Welcome Aboard” buffet and drinks would not be offered and instead we were given a voucher for a bottle of wine of indifferent quality. In our opinion, this was not an acceptable substitute.
Our Mini-Suite was clean and was kept so by our cabin steward, Joe, who refreshed everything twice daily – no complaints there. We had two cans of water in the fridge and when asked if these could be replaced, were told that there was a charge. We accepted this, but felt that £7.25 for six small bottles was excessive.
Fruit, formerly replenished daily, had to be ordered and seemed to take a couple of days to arrive. Canapes were no longer available and this was yet another small but significant treat which we missed. Champagne and a small box of chocolates were left in the fridge and were appreciated.
On Board Credit was a mystery to us – we received £200 between us , yet other guests in like for like accommodation received as much as £1200.It is difficult to see how these discrepancies arise and an explanation would be welcome.
Overall, we enjoyed the cruise – the trips were variable in quality and some were better value than others, though we were mainly happy with that. Entertainment was of a very high standard and the food was fine, particularly in the Speciality Restaurants. All of the staff were pleasant and helpful.
Whilst we understand that P & O lost millions during the pandemic, we don’t feel that trimming costs as they obviously have done is the way to recoup their losses and keep their customers. In our opinion, it would have been better to add a percentage of the cost of the holiday onto the total and kept the extras – that would maintain their reputation and ensure repeat bookings.
We are giving careful thought as to whether to book with P & O again – a shame,as they have a great deal to recommend them but at the moment are not quite up to standard.