A departure from P & O’s distinctive architecture

The lifts are a disaster, for a ship with so many passengers, many of whom are dependant on scooters, wheelchairs or walkers, they are inadequately small. Moreover, they are programmed to continue in either upward or downward direction. Entering a vacant lift just risen from a lower deck, with a lower deck destination, the choices are to ride up to the highest deck, then down, or wait for one coming down, hoping that a) it stops, or b) there is space in it. Meanwhile, the landings are over generous in size, indicating that there was more than enough to accommodate much larger lifts. The absence of stairs in the upper decks of the midship means being literally trapped, depending upon a lift facility that would be inadequate in a small hotel.

And why oh why is the Library tucked away in the foreword of deck 16, accessible only by way of a long accommodation corridor?

The Atrium is not inspirational. No opportunity for the ladies to show off their finery in making a grand descent down a glamorous staircase.

The Live Lounge was drastically short of seating. Arrive early, or miss out!.

On the positive side, as you might expect with P&O, the restaurant and bars offering the expected quality of products and service. Entertainment, in particular, the Headliners, was up to the traditional high standard.

Would I cruise on Britannia again? No! The Azura or Ventura would be my preference, especially since Oriana is being removed from the fleet.