SMOOTH CRUISE

Lets start with P&Os USP which is the direct flight to Barbados with luggage taken off your hands at Gatwick and dropped effortlessly into your cabin a couple of hours after arrival.This worked perfectly and was made even more attractive by Thompsons use of new Dreamliner aircraft,a superb flight.The usual hassle of getting on the ship was minimised and cabin with good size balcony was clean and well set up although the old fashioned shower curtain is a let down.The ship itself is not my favourite due to the crowded deck areas on sea days and lack of walking space.The carpets are looking worn and tired but otherwise everything is shipshape.Whilst dealing with ship issues I should mention that the pool water was pretty cold which at least kept them clear of the irritating folk that just use them to stand in and gossip.Key issues[1 Food.]Generally good although not quite as good as in the past.As far as breakfast is concerned a choice of muffins or freshly toasted or bagels as per Cunard would be a big improvement on toast that has been hanging around for 20 mins.[2.entertainment]Not good enough,too great a reliance on enthusiastic but stale shows and only 2 nights of comedy in the Playhouse.The option of using the small Manhatton club/theatre is limited by small scale and poor design which limits view and sound.[3.Service]Excellent service from all points including our superb cabin steward.[4 Cleanliness]Superb cleanliness throughout,be prepared for a lack of condiment sets for first 2 days in the cafeterias which is done to reduce the chances of cross-contamination.Overall the cruise was very enjoyable with good ports of call [I do not use P&O organised tours due to their expense]and generally you can find local reliable taxi services to take you anywhere on the islands at half the cost.]