An enjoyable return to Cruising

R212 – 26th August 2022 for 19 nights to Mediterranean and Adriatic ports.

This being our first cruise in over three years we were a bit uncertain about how it would be. Online pre cruise information was poor and advice of the number of Formal nights was only provided the day before sailing (by which time packing was complete) and proved to be incorrect. Fortunately, we had assumed five rather than four as per the late advice.

We were impressed with the precautions in place on board and noted part of A deck blocked off as the ‘Isolation area’. Service was at times slow and not always as polished as normal, but staff were always polite and pleasant.

Menus do not have the same variety of choice as in previous years and were repetitive, apparently currently on a 7-day cycle! Over 19 nights chicken only appeared on the menu about three times including on two consecutive nights, but the meals were good and portions perfectly adequate.

Wine prices have risen sharply with many of the wines traditionally at the lower end of the price list not listed at all and by the end of the cruise at least two of the more reasonably priced wines were out of stock including one which was ‘recommended’ on the menu that night, this being blamed on supply issues.

Aurora sailed at approx. 85% of capacity and for the first thirteen days mask wearing was recommended (and typically observed by perhaps 10% or less). On the 14th day however due to ‘a small but growing number of Covid cases on board’ mask wearing became ‘required’ whilst moving around inside the ship and in fairness this was observed 100% – we had been very careful throughout, sanitising at every opportunity, avoiding crowded areas (including lifts) and kept the use of buses to an absolute minimum (only shuttle buses in just two ports and with masks on).

But why, oh why, do they keep the pool cover closed nearly all of the time creating a stifling atmosphere with minimal air circulation – other than the first two and last two days the weather was excellent throughout. Fresh air is one of the basic Covid precautions. And why no in cabin Port Guides (those online have minimal information) and no Cruise Log

Sadly, the loss of the Queen occurred during the cruise, and everything was handled very respectful including the officers wearing black arm bands, flags at half mast, extensive TV coverage and a Service of Remembrance conducted by the Captain. Whilst In Gibraltar we witnessed the Governor General making their Proclamation, a moving and memorable piece of history to be involved in.

Most of the Entertainment was very good although one so-called comedian completely failed to gel with his audience, he was just not funny. We shared our views with the Ents. Manager. Hopefully he will not be invited back.

Overall, a very good return to cruising and hopefully by the time we cruise again next July further steps back towards normal will be in place.