My trip was mostly good.
P&O are certainly cutting back.
A nine day cruise, and Headliners shows were repeated, although they were very good.
Arvia is a massive ship and although there was a lot of space, at times it was very busy especially in the Horizon restaurant.
I thought I’d selected a good quiet cabin based on my last cruise on Iona which is basically the same, however, there was a lot of foot fall noise from above, seemingly eminating from The Olive Grove.
I tried to phone reception @ 1.45 pm, no answer.
Got dressed walked up to reception, no one there.
I called, no one appeared, so I called again and walked inside, to be greeted by an irate member of staff telling me to get back.
Anyway he advised the house keeper would call, have a look and listen .
The staff member was very unpleasant.
All other staff encountered on board were very friendly.
I did receive a flower bouquet as compensation and the problem seemed to be solved.
One other problem with cruise ships are their self closing fire doors.
If they are allowed to self close, there’s a loud bang and all the neighbouring cabins not only hear but feel the hit.
Excited passengers retiring for the night mostly have no regard for those already trying to sleep as they talk/ laugh as they walk down the long corridors.
I mostly like kids but Arvia was kindergarten on the ocean, one kid with his football in the shop area.
Both Arvia and Iona are one off cruises for me.
If there’s a next time it will be Arcadia or Aurora or not at all.
Food mostly good but some very mediocre cooking.
I don’t usually go for gluten free however the deserts here were great.
Superb stand in entertainer John Bourne, pianist, vocalist, guitarist.
I hope he gets more cruise assignments.
There’s no Latin/ ballroom dancing, or classes for the same on Iona or Arvia.
Think Fred Olsen might be my next choice.