Christmas in the Canaries

This was my 5th cruise on Ventura, the first being 2012,
This cruise was different due to the Covid protocols, the pre cruise paperwork was onerous and 2 weeks before departure date I asked out travel agent if we could cancel the whole thing and book for later in the year, it was so stressful. I have a computer and a smart phone but felt some of the paperwork was beyond me, it was too late to transfer so with the help of family we battled through the formalities.
On arrival at Southampton we had a stressful 30 mins waiting for the Negative result of out Covid test but then we were on the ship in our cabins.
Some things are different eg the night time bed turn down is no more, this didn’t bother me at all in fact I think it was better as I didn’t have to put everything away before going to dinner.
I was not looking forward to the virtual queing and booking that I’d heard about but it was very simple and there was always someone on board to help,
You had to book for the entertainment in the theatre but no where else.
There was a virtual queing system for 2 restaurants offering Freedom Dining, this was also really easy.
The staff in all areas were unfailingly helpful patient and pleasant, nothing was too much trouble.
I would say that the Ventura is looking a bit tired, jaded and past her best but her style was very current in 2008 when I think she came into service so to be expected.
The beds are really comfortable but the balcony furniture was old and grubby.
The one rule I didn’t like and didn’t think made much sense was the wearing of masks when moving around the ship, you have to wear a mask while walking to the dining room but take it off as soon as you sit down but masks had to be worn even when sitting in the theatre ????
All areas were very clean with hand gel at the entrance to each eating venue.
I think P&O have taken all precaution possible against this virus,
I also booked another cruise while on board but this time on Britannia.
Our weather wasn’t brilliant but cannot hold anyone responsible for that but would not book a winter cruise again. hence the 4 stars.