The ship should be named ‘Amazing Azura’

Cruise A710 Canary Islands 23 May – 12 nights. This was our first cruise from Southampton and our first with P&O. I can honestly say that it will not be our last. Our only other cruise was NCL Epic last year.
We travelled down to Southampton the previous day from Cheshire on the train (bad move but that’s another review). We arrived at the terminal by taxi just before our boarding time. As soon as we got out of the car, our taxi driver handed our luggage over to the staff and whisked them away. Everyone was helpful in telling us which way to go to check in for our cruise. The whole process just flowed and organised. We were not waiting in a queue for any length of time, and we were on the ship before we knew it.
We had booked a Superior Deluxe room D504 which was a lot more spacious than we had expected. This was our home for the next 12 nights and we were happy. Our room steward arrived to introduce himself and within a few minutes our cases had arrived (super speedy). We were unpacked and changed within an hour of boarding. I remember sending a text to my Mum saying “I love P & O already”. Our steward explained where our Muster station was and to carry our life jackets to it when the captain gives the timings.

We sailed away from Southampton later that day with a glass of the complementary champagne and chocolates that P & O provided as part of this room category. We chose to treat ourselves with access to the retreat for the whole cruise. The beds are so comfy up there. Drinks and snacks are available although quite a limited choice. This suited us as it stopped us overindulging in the buffet!!

We were in freedom dining which suited us perfectly. We never had to wait for a table although if you wanted to eat for just after 6, you would need to queue waiting for the restaurant to open at 6pm. The food and service was incredible. I could always find something on the menu. If the meal needed something else, then the waiter and the chef would accommodate you. We had booked Sindhi via our cruise personaliser prior to travelling. We absolutely loved it and booked again for later in the cruise. It was my husbands birthday and we pre booked Epicurean. Wow, what food. This was a lovely experience and the food was outstanding. Yes, these restaurants are extra but they are worth every penny of the supplement. I would definitely book again. We visited the buffet restaurant several times in the daytime. It is always busy but we never failed to get a seat.

The entertainment on the ship was really good. We tried to go to most of the shows and we were not disappointed. There are lots of talks and seminars to go to if that’s what you want. We particularly liked the nutritionist talks from Sue Baic.
The ship overall was lovely. We found our way around but often we would find ourselves walking to the ‘aft’ of the ship when we really needed to walk the other way. All part of the experience.

We had a drink most evenings in the Glass House which was really good for people watching and a chill out time. I didn’t find the seats particularly comfy though. Java bar is great if you love your coffee. We do, and this was a lovely surprise to find it serves Costa. We did actually spend a fair bit in there over the cruise! This is not included in the cost of your cruise but worth it.

Disembarkation went really well (apart from the people who thought they would not follow the instructions) As you can see, we had a fab time. I could go on and on but I’m sure you have had enough now We have been back 3 weeks and have already booked another cruise. This one is to the Caribbean and on the same ship!!

We are looking to get another one booked up soon – just looking for a bargain.