Accepting that the Ship is thirteen years old the cabins did have a very tired feel about them especially the en-suite rooms which certainly need a refit.
There is evidence of rust on the ships exterior (something I have never seen on P&O ships) and windows to the Public Areas, especially the Metropolitan Restaurant needed a good clean.
Additionally the following points are worth of comment.
No tea/coffee making facility in cabins (very much missed ) Extremely slow restaurant service and the wine service at table was poor indeed Poor entertainment – probably because it was American style Timing for theatre shows did not suit second sitting dinner diners Many guests did not respect the formal evening and were seen in the restaurant and public areas in very informal dress I also thought that the fire/safety drill was a shambles – I am greatly relieved that the ship did not get into difficulties Arrangements for tours were disorganised (although I must say that the tours themselves although expensive were good value for money once we were on the coach!) Generally charges for on-boat refreshments and services were extortionately high and then a further 15% added making it a very expensive cruise I also did not like the implication of a compulsory service charge paid with the main Cruise Account.
I admit that I inadvertently paid this at the time of booking without really realising what this was for and we were unable to alter this when on Board.
I think it is a liberty to be asked to pay up front before sampling any of the services.
Perhaps the Cruise line should pay the staff a reasonable wage.
These are just some of the things that disappointed me so I think it unlikely that I shall book a “Celebrity” cruise again.
Our experiences with P&O have been far superior.
Bolsover Cruise Club are fine
