Britannia – back to the P&O we enjoy

We have just returned from a Caribbean fly-cruise on Britannia, which has restored our faith in P&O. After a disappointing transatlantic cruise on Arvia, we were thinking that P&O was no longer for us.

Britannia was excellent from start to finish of our cruise and after being on her for several previous Caribbean trips, it was good to be back. Our journey from Gatwick to our cabin was seamless, with the usual bypass of Barbados airport immigration and going straight to the ship. The Captain held a champagne reception after a couple of days and introduced his officers to all guests. We never saw the Captain or officers on Arvia. Cocktail parties & afternoon tea has been reinstated on Britannia. We understand these are not on Arvia. We had two black tie evenings a week, compared with only one a week on Arvia.

One of the most pleasing sights was pool staff removing towels & belongings from vacant but reserved sun beds. This was not in evidence on Arvia and caused friction among guests.

Britannia has been in operation for a few years now and the crew are established in their roles and customer service. It was good to be back on her and enjoy P&O again. We have booked again for next year.