Lowering of standards

Let me start by saying that we really enjoyed a fortnight’s cruise in fantastic weather. However we both feel that gradually the service provided is becoming less and less customer orientated. Which is a real shame. Examples, may be nit picking but they are important. No welcome on board on the first day. Where are the lifts? Where is my stateroom? Plenty of people challenging me to offer me a wine package, a spa experience. would I like to book a table in a specialised Restaurant? 3 hours at the airport, 9 hours flight – really didn’t want the hassle. Then before the end of dinner we are called away for the Muster practice. Very important but so was dinner.

New system for changing beach towels. Easy for P&O, not for me. I can buy postage stamps to the UK at the Pursars desk for 90p. Stamps on Antigua were 24p. People reserving 3 and 4 sun beds, 2 in the shade for the afternoon and 2 in the sun for now. No-one but no- one checking. People walking through the Atrium at 8pm in shorts on a formal night. No- one making a challenge. The Captains reception didn’t come until half way through the cruise. Could have been easily missed as no invitation received. Just happened to be walking in the Atrium when it was happening. Later discovered there was an invitation on the television.

No port talks – only on the shopping to be had in the ports + 4 talks on Concorde seemed a little excessive.

Just little moans which an awful lot of other people remarked on during the cruise. BUT overall it was a great cruise. and we have already booked for next year. The staff, as usual were very friendly and helpful.