Have you checked out our Arvia full ship tour, press 👇 th-cam.com/video/meDNuzqEu04/w-d-xo.htmlsi=CUpZ72GxVWmlOWSH What’s your favourite P&O ship let us know in the comments?
I am just back from 2 weeks on Marella Voyager in the Caribbean, got to say we had a fantastic time. Highlights for me was the staff, the staff and the staff. Fantastic. They are AI cruises, so no worries about drinks and plenty of bars and staff to serve you. The food was excellent no need to splash out on speciality but we did use surf and turf and this was fantastic. My experience was one of fun and joy. We did see Arvia in St Martens and it looks massive. I was on Azura last summer for a cheapy and couldn't complained for what I paid but nothing flash, food average at best. marella is more relaxed, shorts allowed in dining rooms, no drama there, but on dressy up nights plenty made the effort. I spoke to plenty of P&O converts also on this cruise. I have done about 7 with P&O and 5 with marella now. I like the smaller ships better and getting beds isn't a massive hassle even on a sea day. It was interesting to see our wonderful captain had been with P&O for long while up until last year, wonder why he left? We are going on Arvia in 3 weeks for a transatlantic, again because it was a bargain and life is to short. So we will see what all the fuss is about, I am not that hard to please. I will not take the drinks package as my liver needs a rest after my Voyager adventure. Change is hard in this business, but core values need respect, and there was nothing but respect between cruisers and all staff. Not sure about P&O thinking celebrity names will make any difference to customers enjoyment etc. Captain did daily rounds most days with no one berating him, just smiles. It's a long time since I have left a cruise and had a tear in my eye with great memories. as its tui we had a lovely dreamliner there and back.
Hi Bill. Thank-you for watching and your detailed comment some great points. I keep hearing such great things about Marrella really need to head onboard soon. I certainly agree about celebrity connections etc not needed!
I agree with no 01, Aurora is lovely, small, no screaming kids, great food, covered pool, full promenade deck, have had many lovely trips on Aurora and Arcadia!
We've loved P&O for years, but they've been sliding and sliding and finally even on our beloved Aurora we couldn't turn a blind eye to the fallen standards, cost cutting and "meh" level food. And that's taking into account the excellent low price we got onboard for.
People are paying keg beer prices but have vintage champagne expectations. Azura 7 day fly cruises out of Tenerife start at around £550 so you aren’t going to get the same quality or level of service as on a line like Royal Caribbean (where after all hidden extras you pay at least double). Having gone for the mass market so determinedly there’s not a lot they can do about an ever larger minority of boorish louts who are increasingly spoiling the cruise experience ( I certainly experienced that on Arvia, which was otherwise really beautiful). Personally I prefer Cunard all the way. It’s probably half as much again price wise but worth every penny.
Hey Gerard thanks for watching and commenting. I agree with the points you make, although no matter what you charge you hope people would have basic manners. Agreed on Cunard! Can’t wait to head back on in May!
@@cruisingwiththe4bs agree totally that civility should be a given. Cunard Queen Victoria is my slice of heaven ( there’s a 7 day on her in June from Trieste to Rome starting at £799 which we have our eye on). All the best to you and may you deservedly continue to grow your channel.
@@gerardmackay8909 sounds fantastic, Victoria is on the list. Anne is first so keep on eye on channel will have lots of coverage. Thanks again for supporting the channel.
Totally agree - love Cunard. Queen Victoria is georgeous, like a super yacht inside. Also, the buffet has so many premium items like giant shrimp, steak, Crayfish I think it is more expensive but still excellent value. I'm going on Queen Anne in October and can't wait. P&O is just OK overall.
We've been on 5 of the P&O fleet & my favourite is Aurora. I love the art deco features & it looks like an ocean liner, not a container ship with windows. Cabins on Iona are excellent, although I would avoid Deck 8 - applies equally to Arvia. We've been happy with the MDR food across all of the ships we've been on, but the virtual queue for the MDR on the App has recently been removed except on the 3 largest ships - not happy about that.
I’ve been on 40+ cruises with P&O alone since I started cruising at 8 years old.My last cruise was in 2019 pre pandemic and we got off both saying well that’s probably our last P&O cruise.Dumbing down and cutbacks in every area from Entertainment to Food lack of choice unless you pay extra and no flavour,very bland fare in the MDR.Have done land based holidays in very good hotels 2/3 times a year since and enjoyed far more.Sad but genuine reflection on how cruising is going.Too Americanised and far more less personal
Hi thanks for watching and commenting. You make some great points especially on the cutbacks and MDR. When going through the reviews your type of review was very common, sad that loyal customers are being lost.
We are due on the Aurora in September to go to canada & also got an east Mediterranean booked for oct 25 so will be interesting to see what they have done on the refit. We were last on her in 2008 & loved how she wasn't too big. We was on the ventura last year & we kept getting lost so goodness knows how we'd cope on thearger ships. Personally the smaller the ship the better.
@chocoholic832 couldn’t agree with you more, personally I love a smaller ship, I loved aurora as much as I loved Ventura so hope you have a great time 😊
Totally agree with the ratings! After many cruises it's clear P&O are minimising the experience and upping the cost!! It's all about profit!! Post 2019 has been rapid decline. We were on the first Arvia Atlantic repositioning cruise and watched with incredulity as passengers were offloaded in the Canaries for resorting to violence over sun-beds. That kind of defined Arvia for us - a drunken holiday camp ambience!! We would cruise on Aurora again possibly Ventura but that's about it!!
Hi guys loved the vlog. We have cruised with P&O for many years and just done a Marella Discovery 2 cruise and vlog. Not sure I will be booking Arvia with Maleth airline though.
Hey, thanks for watching and your kind words. Yes I think I would wait until next year if doing Arvia in Caribbean. As mentioned in the comment on your video, we will hopefully get on marella at some point always looks good.
I agree with people's gripes about the Arvia buffet. The bit that opened at 10pm every night had huge queues and little choice. To add insult to injury our cabin was directly under the buffet food prep area - so was REALLY noisy until 2am - starting up again at around 5am in the morning. I liked Britannia, not so keen on Ventura, and have yet to try Aurora or Acadia.
Hey Gaynor. Thanks for watching as always. Yep the choice is not good and that room sounds horrendous. Both Aurora and Arcadia are due refits in next year so maybe after that check them out.
Agree, just back from 2 week cruise on Arvia, 9.30pm buffet just seemed to be leftovers from dinner time. Keel and Cow we found very disappointing, after being number 1 in the que for an hour, turn up to find we were the only ones there and waited 30 mins for a rare steak.
This is true, we paid less than £1000 for 2 weeks in the Caribbean on Arvia but then on the same cruise you have people that have paid 000's for the same experience
2 cruises last year with P&O Britannia February 23 suite highly recommended as the layout is side by side rather than in depth. October 23 Greek cruise from Malta. Balcony cabin which was fine, but pretty much everything else was poor… MDR service and food great if you want to lose weight and shows bland. Little or no attempt to use the Decks in the evening which was a shame.staff cuts meant that the poor cabin staff were run ragged Would have booked a particular cruise this year, but realised it was azura and couldn’t face it again
Hi, thanks for watching and your detailed comment. Agree on most you say especially on crew being understaffed. Really want to try Azura especially for the ports but think will wait until after the refit next year.
Great video. Personally, I like Britannia , been on it several times. It still feels quite grand and although lots of people on board, not difficult to find a quiet space. The buffet is dire - Norwegian, Cunard and even MSc were in a different league for the buffet. I like a salad and clearly p&o thinks it is in the 1970’s when it comes to what a salad is (flat meat and lettuce) . Ventura was Ok but much more dated and same again for the buffet.
😂😂😂 the salad part made me laugh couldn’t agree more!! MSc and Cunard for a salad station all the way!! Britannia is definitely on our list to try so we will be looking out for some deals. Thank you for watching 🙂
@@PostcardAndAPint arghh yes we did that one last February, had a great week. Going to check out your marella content in next week, desperate to head on Marella just find it expensive for family of four.
Just come of Iona, BEST HOLIDAY EVER! ( I Guess no matter where I go, hubby and me make the best of it ! ) However stunning ship, lovely staff, pools to ourselves at night, under moonlight, food was honestly amazing, we have many dietary issues, No Gluten, No Daily, No Egg and we ate well everyday and in all resturants, highly recomend Iona. Booked Britannia for next year, I hope she is half as good as Iona, and I would be happy!
Hi Katie. Thank-you for watching and your detailed reply. Sounds an amazing Cruise and as you say even if things go against you always best to make the most of it! Enjoy Britannia
I've done both, I'm going on britannia again next month, it's a nice ship, only thing I don't like is the lack of promenade decks on britannia that iona has. But iona felt more like a shopping centre, especially the bland atrium, which should be the best looking part of the ship.
On Ventura Didn't see people in the mdr in pyjama type clothes in the evening they wouldn't be allowed Def agree about the cutbacks Regarding state of ships they are at sea 365 days a year The older ships are still better in size bigger balconies more wardrobe space etc
Interesting how the oldest of the P&O ships gets the best reviews. Clearly there are a lot of people who still want a traditional cruise experience. Cruise companies take note!
I couldn’t agree more with your findings, Ive cruised for a number of years now and I seen the decline in standards and the food has become quite repetitive. Having said that I’ve still enjoyed the cruises I have been on but wish they would bring some of the fun that we used to enjoy especially with the entertainment team .
I am an 84 year old, I would not dream of booking Aurora as it’s an Adult only ship, trouble with Adult only ships is they are full of old people, It’s like Gods waiting room. I like more modern ships with a greater variety of entertainment and restaurants where young an old can mix on a ship that offers a good party atmosphere, which smaller ships cannot offer.
@@dereknash3638 hi derek thanks for watching and your detailed comment. I have to agree we like a varied demographic, normally brings a great atmosphere onboard. Thanks again for watching
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Thanks for this. I’m sailing on Arvia soon so good to see this ahead. Will let you know if it’s changed 😅
Hey, thanks for watching and commenting. It would be great if you popped back and let us know your thoughts. Although all three of our P&O cruises had its faults we enjoyed them all.
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@@cruisingwiththe4bs every line has its faults right. We’ve been on p&o twice and relate to the negatives in your summary. Still hasn’t ever been enough to spoil the trip. That’s said good to know what the issues are before we sail so thanks again for posting it. Very good video.
Me and my family were on Arvia maiden voyage,there were some good points but some bd as well as.I find the trouble with P&O they don’t seem to take action on constructive criticism ,I think it’s about time they upped there game and get this cruise line back to what it once was .
Interesting. I am considering going on a cruise and I used to fancy Arcadia because a smaller more intimate ship. However due to the health issues which I think is partly due to the maintenance issues I recently have been looking at Aurora as first choice. I look at these large ships that have become a trend and they horrify me. I mean how many facilities do you need on a week or two week cruise? All those people and yes the more people the more you are likely to deal with rude and obnoxious passengers. They seem far too brash and noisy for my taste. I have nothing against children, in fact I wouldn't mind a smaller ship with kids as more likely the parents would be made to make sure their children are under control. I don't blame the children, they are on holiday and get excited. I blame selfish people who don't seem to care about others enjoying their cruise too. I understood the Butlin's comment. Fellow passengers can make a big difference to your holiday. So it is a shame really I may have to consider an adult only ship as I do like watching kids enjoying themselves. I just don't want obnoxious families spoiling my holiday. Sadly a sign of the times when people would need a code of conduct when it should be a natural part of consideration and respect for others. It is nice to see an older more respectable sized ship came top. These mega sized ones to me are not conducive to a relaxing holiday. No thanks, big is not always best. With the towels on sunbeds situation a decent ship will stop sunbed hogging. They don't need more sunbeds, just systems in place to deal with selfish people.
Hi, thank-you for watching and your very detailed reply, some really interesting points you make. I 💯 agree it’s not the kids it’s the parents. Although we have kids ourselves we don’t like ships that are over run by kids. I always think mid size ships are perfect for the amount of people that are onboard with just the right amount of facilities. One of us is about to head on Aurora so keep an eye on the channel for a ship tour and review.
My wife and I are cruise newbies, last year we did Arvia around the MED, honestly I thought it was the best holiday ever. So much so that we’ve booked on Britannia this year… obviously not sure what happened in years gone by. But for us Arvia was excellent. Yes the on ship App was a bit of a pain, but, I just went with it and it kinda worked overall. Definitely used worst… I’d say well done P&O for give us the cruise bug.
Hey Steve, thanks for watching and commenting. It’s great that you have the cruise bug, like any holiday people have wide variety of views and the only view that matters is your own. We plan to get on Britannia soon.
I just recently returned from an Arvia Cruise and agree with the likes/dislikes but I would say that I also found the entertainment to be poor on our cruise and service was very hit or miss, poor in the included venues and generally good in the pay extra venues. Keel & Cow on our cruise had the best service and quality of food but you had to pay extra for this. As first time cruisers, it didn't put us off cruising (booked another with Princess a couple of days after we got back) but we wont be booking with P&O again. We travelled with my Parents who had cruised with P&O many times over the last 20 years but have had a little break in the last few years and they were shocked by the changes for the worse in quality, service and entertainment onboard P&O.
Yes unfortunately many people do say since Covid P&O have really gone down hill. Hope you enjoyed your cruise even with the pitfalls 🙂 thank you for watching
Ive done 2 p&o cruises and im on another one next month. There not perfect but seem the best value for money. Britannia is a nice size ship, not too big or too small.
Hi John. Thanks for watching. Agreed on all my reviews value for money always seems to be a high mark. Thanks for watching ( I have just got off of Britannia and yes in general liked it) Revealing My Experience: P&O BRITANNIA Post Refit Review th-cam.com/video/jNZQ4UQUK5Y/w-d-xo.html
We were on Ventura in December for just over 3 weeks …….NEVER AGAIN …defo gone down hill food in. OST parts poor, staff ignorant, food poisoning, gastrointestinal virus and covid all on board despite few months of deep cleansing still issues onboard
We tried Iona, found the food bland, cold and very mediocre, broccoli with everything , every night!! And I don't want to eat my extra pay food in a corridor in a masssive atrium, as people walk by and stare at you. And you have to listen to whatever is going on below you..absolutely horrible. The atrium was freezing (it was winter) when we were in port as the main entrance was intothe bloody atrium. The poor young girl "playing music" in the club was 23, and had no idea what Motown was, or party music, everyone was sat bored, until I asked if I could load a party mix onto her computer system and got eveyone on the floor. Drinks are weak, and they wont make a cocktail unless its one of the 5 they have left on the menu..It was awful. The demograpic of the passengers have changed due to the cheap prices..If you want to cruise on an old persons home try Arcadia!! Don't try it if you are under 55. But we did enjoy Britannia..but the MDR is like eating in a motorway services..crazy bright LED lights rather than nice lighting to dine by. Aurora is a lovely classic ship. (like her sister the wondeful and much missed Oriana).
@mariasharp2334 Oriana was really special, she was modern (then) but still classy. Aurora is very close and sails well. We did a Transatlantic on her in September 2001. (Yep!..got to NYC on Sept 9th!). The show team and cruise directors were brilliant. The food was excellent, with a big Stilton fed with port, brought to the table and scooped out fresh each evening, and truffles or little petit fours served with the coffee..And Mouton Brown toiletries in all grades of cabin. It was special. I suppose the nearest to it now is Cunard. Happy Cruising.
Last cruise Nov 2023, Ventura. Very poor! Entertainment reduced greatly in daytime and below average at nightime. Food abysmal in MDR - no salmon alternative, choice greatly reduced and desserts terrible! Buffet horrendous - tough meat, lack of vegetables. No local dishes when at destinations. Desserts awful here too. I've had better school dinners and food at Butlins! Service very slow and staff obviously very unhappy everywhere - wondered if smiling and chatting to guests was banned. Witnessed staff bullying other staff on more than one occasion. System for seating guests in MDR needs changing as current system causes unnecessary delays. "App" useless. Disorganised queuing to board - outside in cold wet weather and inside empty. Came across many more rude, entitled passengers than ever before. Oh dear- sort yourself out P&O. I might try another line next time.
Hi Maxine thanks for watching and your very detailed comment. What you have mentioned sadly is what I read many times over. All though simple things that could be rectified very easily!
My concern about cruising these days is that it is a posher bustling with poorer food than there used to be and too many chavs, who have no idea what ports they are in…..
Haha very dependant on who you sail with and the time of year, this cruise for example was a very different calibre of people in some areas 🤷♀️ however if you can over look that and just remember the price paid (much cheaper) then it’s still enjoyable. Thanks for watching.
Great review, I was hoping to sail on Arvia next Winter but I’ll pass until they have changed carrier. Azura is a good ship but definitely needs a lot of work as the maintenance is lacking. Overall, I think P&O need some serious help from Carnival as it’s a brand that’s seriously lacking.
Hey! Thanks as always for watching and commenting. Yes although not confirmed I think P&O know Maleth was mistake can’t see them returning next winter. Think I will wait to try Azura until after 2025 refit, although as mentioned the refits are very short! 💯 agree carnival needs send money across!
@@cruisingwiththe4bs If they go back to a mainstream carrier I’d be more likely to book. Having an app should be a priority for them and maybe Medallion like Princess has which is incredibly easy to use.
Thanks for watching and your comments, these are not our personal views but the views of others from trip advisor, agree with you we actually loved Arvia and you get what you pay for with P&O 🙂
P&O have been cost cutting for so long its standards have nosedived. Never been with them for a few years, we don't like what we hear...Hear they are now charging extra to see some shows on their ships!!...No thanks we will go with other companies
Hey thanks for watching and commenting. Decided against putting them in as we have not tried P&O Australia, also as it’s separate company within carnival thought it didn’t fit, but would love to head down under at some point and try them.
@@cruisingwiththe4bs Dont bother, When Carnival Corp have absolutely got the last out of a ship & its old, tired and neglected it gets a lick of paint & off to Australia to be the all new whatever... terrible reviews, food, & upcharges ect ect
so how many of the 5,000 passengers complained. You will always get some moaning because they complain about everything, so to be fair state a percentage of the passengers who complained but that wouldn't make a good vlog. I have cruised on all P & O ships with thr=e exception of Arvia which I will be going on in September I will accept accept their are some things that i might not enjoy that other people will like but that's life get on with it.
Hi thanks for watching. Agreed I think people are more likely to do a review if it’s bad one but still plenty of good reviews on the sites. Enjoy your cruise in September
Dress up is great There is not many reasons to dress up on land ( hatch, match, dispatch😢, or christenings ) British people just don’t dress up on land
Have you checked out our Arvia full ship tour, press 👇
th-cam.com/video/meDNuzqEu04/w-d-xo.htmlsi=CUpZ72GxVWmlOWSH
What’s your favourite P&O ship let us know in the comments?
Excellent overview, let’s hope P&O take note!
Hey Kim thanks for watching and your kind words. Yes 🤞
I am just back from 2 weeks on Marella Voyager in the Caribbean, got to say we had a fantastic time. Highlights for me was the staff, the staff and the staff. Fantastic. They are AI cruises, so no worries about drinks and plenty of bars and staff to serve you. The food was excellent no need to splash out on speciality but we did use surf and turf and this was fantastic. My experience was one of fun and joy. We did see Arvia in St Martens and it looks massive. I was on Azura last summer for a cheapy and couldn't complained for what I paid but nothing flash, food average at best. marella is more relaxed, shorts allowed in dining rooms, no drama there, but on dressy up nights plenty made the effort. I spoke to plenty of P&O converts also on this cruise. I have done about 7 with P&O and 5 with marella now. I like the smaller ships better and getting beds isn't a massive hassle even on a sea day. It was interesting to see our wonderful captain had been with P&O for long while up until last year, wonder why he left? We are going on Arvia in 3 weeks for a transatlantic, again because it was a bargain and life is to short. So we will see what all the fuss is about, I am not that hard to please. I will not take the drinks package as my liver needs a rest after my Voyager adventure. Change is hard in this business, but core values need respect, and there was nothing but respect between cruisers and all staff. Not sure about P&O thinking celebrity names will make any difference to customers enjoyment etc. Captain did daily rounds most days with no one berating him, just smiles. It's a long time since I have left a cruise and had a tear in my eye with great memories. as its tui we had a lovely dreamliner there and back.
Hi Bill. Thank-you for watching and your detailed comment some great points.
I keep hearing such great things about Marrella really need to head onboard soon.
I certainly agree about celebrity connections etc not needed!
I agree with no 01, Aurora is lovely, small, no screaming kids, great food, covered pool, full promenade deck, have had many lovely trips on Aurora and Arcadia!
Hi Bill thanks for watching. We heading on Aurora in few weeks!!
We've loved P&O for years, but they've been sliding and sliding and finally even on our beloved Aurora we couldn't turn a blind eye to the fallen standards, cost cutting and "meh" level food. And that's taking into account the excellent low price we got onboard for.
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting. You not alone in your thoughts on this. We’re on Aurora shortly so be good to see what it’s like.
Great summary. Really helpful to all. Top work 4B’s!
Thanks as always for watching James
People are paying keg beer prices but have vintage champagne expectations. Azura 7 day fly cruises out of Tenerife start at around £550 so you aren’t going to get the same quality or level of service as on a line like Royal Caribbean (where after all hidden extras you pay at least double). Having gone for the mass market so determinedly there’s not a lot they can do about an ever larger minority of boorish louts who are increasingly spoiling the cruise experience ( I certainly experienced that on Arvia, which was otherwise really beautiful). Personally I prefer Cunard all the way. It’s probably half as much again price wise but worth every penny.
Hey Gerard thanks for watching and commenting.
I agree with the points you make, although no matter what you charge you hope people would have basic manners.
Agreed on Cunard! Can’t wait to head back on in May!
@@cruisingwiththe4bs agree totally that civility should be a given. Cunard Queen Victoria is my slice of heaven ( there’s a 7 day on her in June from Trieste to Rome starting at £799 which we have our eye on). All the best to you and may you deservedly continue to grow your channel.
@@gerardmackay8909 sounds fantastic, Victoria is on the list. Anne is first so keep on eye on channel will have lots of coverage. Thanks again for supporting the channel.
@@cruisingwiththe4bs oh wow May is her maiden voyage I believe will definitely look out for your review. Enjoy
Totally agree - love Cunard. Queen Victoria is georgeous, like a super yacht inside. Also, the buffet has so many premium items like giant shrimp, steak, Crayfish I think it is more expensive but still excellent value. I'm going on Queen Anne in October and can't wait. P&O is just OK overall.
We've been on 5 of the P&O fleet & my favourite is Aurora. I love the art deco features & it looks like an ocean liner, not a container ship with windows. Cabins on Iona are excellent, although I would avoid Deck 8 - applies equally to Arvia. We've been happy with the MDR food across all of the ships we've been on, but the virtual queue for the MDR on the App has recently been removed except on the 3 largest ships - not happy about that.
Hi Paul. Thanks for watching and your detailed reply. Heading on Aurora in few weeks so looking forward to checking it out.
When I was on aurora couple of months ago the staff were painting around the promenade deck ceiling so they are touching up where they need to.
Hi Natasha. Great to hear, we’re planning on going on before and after refit so be good to see the difference
I’ve been on 40+ cruises with P&O alone since I started cruising at 8 years old.My last cruise was in 2019 pre pandemic and we got off both saying well that’s probably our last P&O cruise.Dumbing down and cutbacks in every area from Entertainment to Food lack of choice unless you pay extra and no flavour,very bland fare in the MDR.Have done land based holidays in very good hotels 2/3 times a year since and enjoyed far more.Sad but genuine reflection on how cruising is going.Too Americanised and far more less personal
Hi thanks for watching and commenting.
You make some great points especially on the cutbacks and MDR. When going through the reviews your type of review was very common, sad that loyal customers are being lost.
We are due on the Aurora in September to go to canada & also got an east Mediterranean booked for oct 25 so will be interesting to see what they have done on the refit. We were last on her in 2008 & loved how she wasn't too big. We was on the ventura last
year & we kept getting lost so goodness knows how we'd cope on thearger ships. Personally the smaller the ship the better.
@chocoholic832 couldn’t agree with you more, personally I love a smaller ship, I loved aurora as much as I loved Ventura so hope you have a great time 😊
Totally agree with the ratings! After many cruises it's clear P&O are minimising the experience and upping the cost!! It's all about profit!! Post 2019 has been rapid decline. We were on the first Arvia Atlantic repositioning cruise and watched with incredulity as passengers were offloaded in the Canaries for resorting to violence over sun-beds. That kind of defined Arvia for us - a drunken holiday camp ambience!! We would cruise on Aurora again possibly Ventura but that's about it!!
Hi thanks for watching, totally agree with you we much prefer the smaller of the P&O ships 😊
Problems with fellow passengers? As with budget airlines it's what you have to expect as a consequence of going down market.
You have a valid point, thanks for watching
Usually the problem with fellow passengers is the ones who think they are better than the rest. It has nothing at all to do with "going down market"
@@Paulad39uk totally agree, everyone has paid a similar price to be somewhere everyone is entitled to the same experience
Hi guys loved the vlog. We have cruised with P&O for many years and just done a Marella Discovery 2 cruise and vlog. Not sure I will be booking Arvia with Maleth airline though.
Hey, thanks for watching and your kind words.
Yes I think I would wait until next year if doing Arvia in Caribbean. As mentioned in the comment on your video, we will hopefully get on marella at some point always looks good.
With regards to the app we have stopped using it and had no problems whatsoever just turn up at the restaurants never had to wait
Hi Brian thanks for watching. That’s good to know, think we will do the same when back on P&O as it’s so frustrating.
I agree with people's gripes about the Arvia buffet. The bit that opened at 10pm every night had huge queues and little choice. To add insult to injury our cabin was directly under the buffet food prep area - so was REALLY noisy until 2am - starting up again at around 5am in the morning. I liked Britannia, not so keen on Ventura, and have yet to try Aurora or Acadia.
Hey Gaynor. Thanks for watching as always.
Yep the choice is not good and that room sounds horrendous.
Both Aurora and Arcadia are due refits in next year so maybe after that check them out.
Agree, just back from 2 week cruise on Arvia, 9.30pm buffet just seemed to be leftovers from dinner time. Keel and Cow we found very disappointing, after being number 1 in the que for an hour, turn up to find we were the only ones there and waited 30 mins for a rare steak.
Ever heard 'you get what you pay for'. If you want Claridges instead of Butlins,then be prepared to pay for it.
We have indeed heard this and happen to love butlins 🙂 thanks for watching
This is true, we paid less than £1000 for 2 weeks in the Caribbean on Arvia but then on the same cruise you have people that have paid 000's for the same experience
2 cruises last year with P&O Britannia February 23 suite highly recommended as the layout is side by side rather than in depth.
October 23 Greek cruise from Malta. Balcony cabin which was fine, but pretty much everything else was poor… MDR service and food great if you want to lose weight and shows bland. Little or no attempt to use the Decks in the evening which was a shame.staff cuts meant that the poor cabin staff were run ragged
Would have booked a particular cruise this year, but realised it was azura and couldn’t face it again
Hi, thanks for watching and your detailed comment.
Agree on most you say especially on crew being understaffed.
Really want to try Azura especially for the ports but think will wait until after the refit next year.
Great video. Personally, I like Britannia , been on it several times. It still feels quite grand and although lots of people on board, not difficult to find a quiet space. The buffet is dire - Norwegian, Cunard and even MSc were in a different league for the buffet. I like a salad and clearly p&o thinks it is in the 1970’s when it comes to what a salad is (flat meat and lettuce) . Ventura was Ok but much more dated and same again for the buffet.
😂😂😂 the salad part made me laugh couldn’t agree more!! MSc and Cunard for a salad station all the way!! Britannia is definitely on our list to try so we will be looking out for some deals. Thank you for watching 🙂
More stops would help the sun bed situation after all the ship goes at a snail pace and there are lots of islands that p&o used to stop at
Hi Brian. Yep I have said that for a while, classic money saving. On the med cruises you could easily do 7/8 but it’s always 6!
We're off on our first P&O soon. This was really interesting. We're on Iona! Intersting video 🍻
Hey, thanks for watching, still my favourite name for a channel! Look forward to checking out your Iona content. Norway?
@@cruisingwiththe4bs ah thanks! No North Europe - Hamburg Rotterdam etc x
@@PostcardAndAPint arghh yes we did that one last February, had a great week.
Going to check out your marella content in next week, desperate to head on Marella just find it expensive for family of four.
Just come of Iona, BEST HOLIDAY EVER! ( I Guess no matter where I go, hubby and me make the best of it ! ) However stunning ship, lovely staff, pools to ourselves at night, under moonlight, food was honestly amazing, we have many dietary issues, No Gluten, No Daily, No Egg and we ate well everyday and in all resturants, highly recomend Iona. Booked Britannia for next year, I hope she is half as good as Iona, and I would be happy!
Hi Katie. Thank-you for watching and your detailed reply. Sounds an amazing Cruise and as you say even if things go against you always best to make the most of it! Enjoy Britannia
I've done both, I'm going on britannia again next month, it's a nice ship, only thing I don't like is the lack of promenade decks on britannia that iona has.
But iona felt more like a shopping centre, especially the bland atrium, which should be the best looking part of the ship.
Interesting review 4Bs, and some great comments here.
Hey Steve as always thanks for watching and commenting
On Ventura Didn't see people in the mdr in pyjama type clothes in the evening they wouldn't be allowed Def agree about the cutbacks Regarding state of ships they are at sea 365 days a year The older ships are still better in size bigger balconies more wardrobe space etc
Hi Patricia thanks for watching and commenting. Definitely agree on wardrobe space the separate area is excellent on the older ships
I did like the music around the pool on britannia, I was disappointed iona didn't have it.
Really interesting review. Great stuff 👏
Thanks for watching Rob and your kind words.
Interesting how the oldest of the P&O ships gets the best reviews. Clearly there are a lot of people who still want a traditional cruise experience. Cruise companies take note!
Hi Sarah thanks for watching. 💯 if P&O give them some loving care still many more years you could get out of them.
Arvia was brilliant....will book again for this year
Glad you enjoyed 🙂 thanks for watching
I couldn’t agree more with your findings, Ive cruised for a number of years now and I seen the decline in standards and the food has become quite repetitive. Having said that I’ve still enjoyed the cruises I have been on but wish they would bring some of the fun that we used to enjoy especially with the entertainment team .
Hi Denise thanks for watching and detailed reply. I agree still enjoy the cruises on P&O but some aspects are now lacking!
I am an 84 year old, I would not dream of booking Aurora as it’s an Adult only ship, trouble with Adult only ships is they are full of old people, It’s like Gods waiting room. I like more modern ships with a greater variety of entertainment and restaurants where young an old can mix on a ship that offers a good party atmosphere, which smaller ships cannot offer.
@@dereknash3638 hi derek thanks for watching and your detailed comment.
I have to agree we like a varied demographic, normally brings a great atmosphere onboard.
Thanks again for watching
Thanks for this. I’m sailing on Arvia soon so good to see this ahead. Will let you know if it’s changed 😅
Hey, thanks for watching and commenting. It would be great if you popped back and let us know your thoughts.
Although all three of our P&O cruises had its faults we enjoyed them all.
@@cruisingwiththe4bs every line has its faults right. We’ve been on p&o twice and relate to the negatives in your summary. Still hasn’t ever been enough to spoil the trip. That’s said good to know what the issues are before we sail so thanks again for posting it. Very good video.
Agree 💯. Thanks again for comments have great cruise.
@@cruisingwiththe4bs thank you, have a great evening 😁
Me and my family were on Arvia maiden voyage,there were some good points but some bd as well as.I find the trouble with P&O they don’t seem to take action on constructive criticism ,I think it’s about time they upped there game and get this cruise line back to what it once was .
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting.
Agreed more acting on feedback would be helpful a lot!
Interesting. I am considering going on a cruise and I used to fancy Arcadia because a smaller more intimate ship. However due to the health issues which I think is partly due to the maintenance issues I recently have been looking at Aurora as first choice.
I look at these large ships that have become a trend and they horrify me. I mean how many facilities do you need on a week or two week cruise? All those people and yes the more people the more you are likely to deal with rude and obnoxious passengers. They seem far too brash and noisy for my taste.
I have nothing against children, in fact I wouldn't mind a smaller ship with kids as more likely the parents would be made to make sure their children are under control. I don't blame the children, they are on holiday and get excited. I blame selfish people who don't seem to care about others enjoying their cruise too. I understood the Butlin's comment. Fellow passengers can make a big difference to your holiday.
So it is a shame really I may have to consider an adult only ship as I do like watching kids enjoying themselves. I just don't want obnoxious families spoiling my holiday. Sadly a sign of the times when people would need a code of conduct when it should be a natural part of consideration and respect for others.
It is nice to see an older more respectable sized ship came top.
These mega sized ones to me are not conducive to a relaxing holiday. No thanks, big is not always best.
With the towels on sunbeds situation a decent ship will stop sunbed hogging. They don't need more sunbeds, just systems in place to deal with selfish people.
Hi, thank-you for watching and your very detailed reply, some really interesting points you make.
I 💯 agree it’s not the kids it’s the parents. Although we have kids ourselves we don’t like ships that are over run by kids.
I always think mid size ships are perfect for the amount of people that are onboard with just the right amount of facilities.
One of us is about to head on Aurora so keep an eye on the channel for a ship tour and review.
My wife and I are cruise newbies, last year we did Arvia around the MED, honestly I thought it was the best holiday ever. So much so that we’ve booked on Britannia this year… obviously not sure what happened in years gone by. But for us Arvia was excellent. Yes the on ship App was a bit of a pain, but, I just went with it and it kinda worked overall. Definitely used worst… I’d say well done P&O for give us the cruise bug.
Hey Steve, thanks for watching and commenting. It’s great that you have the cruise bug, like any holiday people have wide variety of views and the only view that matters is your own. We plan to get on Britannia soon.
I just recently returned from an Arvia Cruise and agree with the likes/dislikes but I would say that I also found the entertainment to be poor on our cruise and service was very hit or miss, poor in the included venues and generally good in the pay extra venues. Keel & Cow on our cruise had the best service and quality of food but you had to pay extra for this. As first time cruisers, it didn't put us off cruising (booked another with Princess a couple of days after we got back) but we wont be booking with P&O again. We travelled with my Parents who had cruised with P&O many times over the last 20 years but have had a little break in the last few years and they were shocked by the changes for the worse in quality, service and entertainment onboard P&O.
Yes unfortunately many people do say since Covid P&O have really gone down hill. Hope you enjoyed your cruise even with the pitfalls 🙂 thank you for watching
I always love the gammons comparing Butlins, when they have never been to one.
🤣🤣 we’ve definitely been to a butlins or two I can assure you, what are gammons? I’m intrigued.
Gamon Is a racist slur from the left, basically it's a lame racist insult describing white people as brexit voters with red faces
Ive done 2 p&o cruises and im on another one next month.
There not perfect but seem the best value for money.
Britannia is a nice size ship, not too big or too small.
Hi John. Thanks for watching. Agreed on all my reviews value for money always seems to be a high mark. Thanks for watching ( I have just got off of Britannia and yes in general liked it)
Revealing My Experience: P&O BRITANNIA Post Refit Review
th-cam.com/video/jNZQ4UQUK5Y/w-d-xo.html
Great summary
Thanks for watching Mike
We were on Ventura in December for just over 3 weeks …….NEVER AGAIN …defo gone down hill food in. OST parts poor, staff ignorant, food poisoning, gastrointestinal virus and covid all on board despite few months of deep cleansing still issues onboard
O god that sounds horrendous! Sorry you had such an awful cruise. Thank you for watching 🙂
Arvia is a beautiful ship..not a single complaint...however, just booked Brittania simply for the better shore itinerary.
She is indeed a beautiful ship 😊 have a great cruise
An excellent review
Thank you for watching 🙂
We tried Iona, found the food bland, cold and very mediocre, broccoli with everything , every night!! And I don't want to eat my extra pay food in a corridor in a masssive atrium, as people walk by and stare at you. And you have to listen to whatever is going on below you..absolutely horrible. The atrium was freezing (it was winter) when we were in port as the main entrance was intothe bloody atrium. The poor young girl "playing music" in the club was 23, and had no idea what Motown was, or party music, everyone was sat bored, until I asked if I could load a party mix onto her computer system and got eveyone on the floor. Drinks are weak, and they wont make a cocktail unless its one of the 5 they have left on the menu..It was awful. The demograpic of the passengers have changed due to the cheap prices..If you want to cruise on an old persons home try Arcadia!! Don't try it if you are under 55. But we did enjoy Britannia..but the MDR is like eating in a motorway services..crazy bright LED lights rather than nice lighting to dine by. Aurora is a lovely classic ship. (like her sister the wondeful and much missed Oriana).
@mariasharp2334 Oriana was really special, she was modern (then) but still classy. Aurora is very close and sails well. We did a Transatlantic on her in September 2001. (Yep!..got to NYC on Sept 9th!). The show team and cruise directors were brilliant. The food was excellent, with a big Stilton fed with port, brought to the table and scooped out fresh each evening, and truffles or little petit fours served with the coffee..And Mouton Brown toiletries in all grades of cabin. It was special. I suppose the nearest to it now is Cunard. Happy Cruising.
I didn't like the Acadia at all, but the Aurora is indeed a wonderful ship. None finer in my opinion.
Last cruise Nov 2023, Ventura. Very poor! Entertainment reduced greatly in daytime and below average at nightime. Food abysmal in MDR - no salmon alternative, choice greatly reduced and desserts terrible! Buffet horrendous - tough meat, lack of vegetables. No local dishes when at destinations. Desserts awful here too. I've had better school dinners and food at Butlins! Service very slow and staff obviously very unhappy everywhere - wondered if smiling and chatting to guests was banned. Witnessed staff bullying other staff on more than one occasion. System for seating guests in MDR needs changing as current system causes unnecessary delays. "App" useless. Disorganised queuing to board - outside in cold wet weather and inside empty. Came across many more rude, entitled passengers than ever before. Oh dear- sort yourself out P&O. I might try another line next time.
Hi Maxine thanks for watching and your very detailed comment.
What you have mentioned sadly is what I read many times over. All though simple things that could be rectified very easily!
My concern about cruising these days is that it is a posher bustling with poorer food than there used to be and too many chavs, who have no idea what ports they are in…..
Haha very dependant on who you sail with and the time of year, this cruise for example was a very different calibre of people in some areas 🤷♀️ however if you can over look that and just remember the price paid (much cheaper) then it’s still enjoyable. Thanks for watching.
Great review, I was hoping to sail on Arvia next Winter but I’ll pass until they have changed carrier.
Azura is a good ship but definitely needs a lot of work as the maintenance is lacking.
Overall, I think P&O need some serious help from Carnival as it’s a brand that’s seriously lacking.
Hey! Thanks as always for watching and commenting.
Yes although not confirmed I think P&O know Maleth was mistake can’t see them returning next winter. Think I will wait to try Azura until after 2025 refit, although as mentioned the refits are very short!
💯 agree carnival needs send money across!
@@cruisingwiththe4bs If they go back to a mainstream carrier I’d be more likely to book.
Having an app should be a priority for them and maybe Medallion like Princess has which is incredibly easy to use.
@@ALifeintheParks yes agree can’t wait to try medallion next month!
Posher butlins I meant,
Sorry don't think Arvia is the worst rated ship
Ambassador better than P&O not true
Iona only rated 5 out of the ship
People want Champagne with sparkling water money P&O don't agree with this vlog entirely
Thanks for watching and your comments, these are not our personal views but the views of others from trip advisor, agree with you we actually loved Arvia and you get what you pay for with P&O 🙂
P&O have been cost cutting for so long its standards have nosedived. Never been with them for a few years, we don't like what we hear...Hear they are now charging extra to see some shows on their ships!!...No thanks we will go with other companies
Hi Malcolm thanks for watching. Most shows are included, a few are pay extra
We wouldnt go on Arvia again
Thanks for watching
Why not?
It has more things than iona.
I knew it, you forgot P&O Australia, which is still P&O, just a budget line exclusive to Australia.
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting. As we haven’t been on P&O Australia didn’t want to comment, but we would love to head onboard at some point!!
To be fair p&o listened and did away with this charter airline they are uding tui ba virgin jet2 etc
@@keithnewton8981 yes luckly maleth is no more for P&O although still no compensation for ones that had delays etc
We went in Feb , worse cruise I’ve ever been on , 😢
@@sandranilsson7209 oh no which ship?
@@cruisingwiththe4bs Arvia
You actually missed a couple of really great P&O ships... The Explorer and The Adventure. They are absolutely wonderful.
Hey thanks for watching and commenting. Decided against putting them in as we have not tried P&O Australia, also as it’s separate company within carnival thought it didn’t fit, but would love to head down under at some point and try them.
@@cruisingwiththe4bs Dont bother, When Carnival Corp have absolutely got the last out of a ship & its old, tired and neglected it gets a lick of paint & off to Australia to be the all new whatever... terrible reviews, food, & upcharges ect ect
@@FobDoff-dv6rl thanks for the warning, maybe worth it though just to review 🤔
so how many of the 5,000 passengers complained. You will always get some moaning because they complain about everything, so to be fair state a percentage of the passengers who complained but that wouldn't make a good vlog. I have cruised on all P & O ships with thr=e exception of Arvia which I will be going on in September I will accept accept their are some things that i might not enjoy that other people will like but that's life get on with it.
Hi thanks for watching. Agreed I think people are more likely to do a review if it’s bad one but still plenty of good reviews on the sites. Enjoy your cruise in September
Some of tham r people being selfish sorry
Thanks for watching Julia
All cruise ships are floating holiday parks /camps .
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting
Dress up is great
There is not many reasons to dress up on land ( hatch, match, dispatch😢, or christenings ) British people just don’t dress up on land