Caribbean for New Year

It was our first ever trip to the Caribbean and a great experience learning about its culture and sadly its past. Went on an excursion most days and these were, in the main, good value for money from P&O.

Azura is a lovely looking ship but in need of a refurb (thankfully due 2020). Most public areas are good but some of the deck areas are scruffy and the crew need to clean/tidy up more frequently. Our room was good but tired.

Food and service in the Peninsular Restaurant was very good and delivered with a smile. Buffet at the rear on deck 15. One is quite good, particular afternoon tea food but the one closest to the rear is poor.

TUI Dreamliner/transfers – excellent

Now the bad bit. Probably due to it being a New Year cruise, this has to be the rowdiest ship we’ve ever been on. The Breakers Bar seemed to attract certain people and was an area for some anti-social behaviour (throughout the cruise) due to heavy/binge drinking and some (too many though) passengers disregarding the smoking rules (starboard only please). Sadly, there were some unsavoury incidents, witnessed by too many. For balance, you could enjoy the cruise with a drink from other areas of the ship including our favourite the terrace at the rear of the ship.

Glasshouse – very nice, Entertainment in the theatre – very good.

So, a mixed review but an honest one which I believe reviewers want when booking a cruise. I have provided similar feedback to P&O but let me be clear this wouldn’t put us off cruising with P&O. We’d avoid New Year!