The sun is blasting through the bedroom window and today is cruise day! Its still early at 5.30 am but things to do, last minute checks to make, and before I knew it we were in the car and heading for Southampton. Arrived at Ocean Terminal at 11.20am which wasn’t bad considering we left the house at just gone 9.00am and I hit two slight delays due to accidents on route. CPS put us into a holding queue, but we were right at the front, so were soon called across to check the car in. Car was soon checked in, a porter unloaded the car and took away the cases and assisted while Mum got in her wheelchair. I left Mum with the hand luggage while I went in search of some wheelchair assistance and I found them all having their briefing just inside the terminal. A very nice man was soon assigned to assist me and stayed with us all the way through to embarkation. The terminal was packed with passengers waiting to be called to check in. The Gold Portunus queue was already checking in, but the wheelchair man diverted us straight to the mobility check in desks, which weren’t officially open, so we were soon processed and walked straight onboard.

Gold embarkation drinks was very busy, but the fizz soon arrived. To my surprise Mum tried a sip – she must have been thirsty! I think the screwed up face confirmed that she didn’t like it. The curly sandwiches and soggy crisps have disappeared. They were legendary! Instead we were presented with a plate of 10 fingers sandwiched with salad garnish. Very enjoyable. Mum asked for a cup of tea, but was told non was available. I took the trek upto deck 15 to acquire a cup of tea, and by the time I got back with it, Clifford had met Mums request for tea and arranged a tea pot full for her from Java. Clifford’ a star! But now Mum has requested cake, fruit cake to be precise, so back I trecked to the buffet for a slice of fruit cake. Oh dear, no fruit cake! It must have been the already consumed 3 glasses of fizz but I thought a bowl of fresh fruit and a choux bun was a pretty good substitute?! Mum was less impressed with my efforts. Well it was fruit and a cake!

Just before 2.00pm I decided to beat the system and head for the cabin, making it easier to call for a lift before the masses got on the move. I took the hand luggage first, and arrived at the cabin with mum and the wheelchair about 3 mins before the announcement for cabins was made. Cases were already close by, so I wheeled them along to the cabin and was unpacked in no time. I struggled a bit with storage, but it all fitted in somewhere.

Whilst mum had a lay down, I went for a much earnt cocktail of the day up at Breakers and met up with Denise & Chris. Cocktail of the day was Caribbean cruise, so it had to be done! And it went down very nicely.

After Muster drill Captain Keith Dowds informed us that we would soon let go our lines and head off for the Mediterranean, but first we had to let Oriana come down from Mayflower Terminal. There was some good horn blasting as she went past our stern and very elegant she looked too.

Sailway party was a bit of a damp squib, due to some drizzle, so I went in search of the internet manager.

I’m having a bit of a stress about connecting to the internet. Im not the most technical of people and there is a note in the cabin informing me that they are ‘trialling’ a new internet package. It was bad enough when they charged £62.50 for 240 mins, but at least I could see how many minutes I was using and how much I had left etc. Now they are charging per MegaBite. I’ve since received a few quick lessons in what that translates to in English, and for me its not good. Due to my line of work, I receive all sorts of emails and updates from various cruise lines, that are massive, compared to a normal email. Plus I need to use a booking system etc. 240 MG is £100!!! I know I might be an exception to the rule in the usage, but why am I being charged by the MB?! Its totally scandalous the amount of money that cruise lines charge passengers for internet usage in the first place. It must be a big revenue earner for them. I don’t mind paying for the service, but £100?? To me internet is just internet, it picks a signal up from a satellite and connects me – maybe an over simple explanation but thats the way I see it. I have no idea how long 240MB that will last me? Because its a ‘trial’ I will be invited to answer a questionnaire at the end of the cruise and might win a bottle of wine and meal for two!! Meanwhile I have spent a couple of hundred pounds on a service that was already there – and Ive just paid through the nose for it! Why didn’t P&O advise of this change before, for me it could have determined which cruise line or ship I travel on and could affect it in the future? Anyway, its completely stressed me out, I have no control over it, I have to bite the bullet and purchase said package – but it does feel like daylight robbery!

Meanwhile, back at the cabin Mum is getting impatient and wants her tea! Oh no its too early to dine so I distract her with a phone call to Mr C. I had taken mum for a tour of the ship earlier and informed her that they served her favourite, fish & chips, in the Glass House, so maybe we should go and eat there tonight. I fell about laughing when she told Mr C on the phone “Oooh you should see the fish & chip shop on here! You would love it!! We are going there for our tea” ‘Fish & Chip shop’!!!! Olly I hope you are impressed by the title of your signature restaurant because thats what it will always be to me from this day on now.

Mum has changed her blouse, touched up her makeup and is making it very clear to me that I cannot have any getting ready time. Tempted as I was to just go out as I was, I simply couldn’t. I threw some makeup at my face, put a comb through my hair, put a dress over my head and was ready to walk out the door within 10 mins. That wasn’t fast enough though. Mum wants her tea!

Arrived at the Glass House at around 7.00pm and found a seat easily. A glass of Canadian Fizz was soon ordered and Mums fish & chip order placed. I went for spring chicken which was lovely. I could quite happily have sat with another glass of Canadian fizz or three but the shops were calling Mum so off we went. We went in the jewellers and I must have looked wealthy because they seemed to be falling over themselves to offer me glasses of champagne and talk to me about the great Tanzenite unveiling – oh that old chestnut! Tempted as I was to take up there offer of a glass of fizz, mum informed them we weren’t stopping so off we went. A stroll down the photographers and a very nice man checked over my camera to double check that I had all of my settings correct. I had been left to mess with it myself this morning in an effort to delete all old photos before I started taking new ones, and I was hitting everything and anything in an effort to find the correct menu. Apparently I had done no damage so after thanking him for his help we were on our way. We were too early for embarkation photos today, but I had to smile at a group of three lads checking out all the girls photos, and making their ‘selections’ for the 14 days ahead. I suppose its a very good way of checking out all available eye candy and knowing who they want to look out for onboard. There are a lot of teens onboard. More than I have seen in a long long time, but then I haven’t done a summer cruise, on a family ship since 2003. But I have to say that all that I have encountered to date have been really polite and helpful, moving to allow the wheelchair to pass, assisting with lifts etc. So we will see if it continues I’m sure it will.

Next we checked out the shops on Deck 6, but every where is very busy, so its hard work with the wheelchair. I made the mistake of walking through Brodies on the slots side! Oh no, mum wants to play. The casino isn’t the most wheelchair friendly of places on a busy evening, and Mum thinks she can select her slot machine and as if my magic I will get her parked infront of it. Eventually, I got her parked up infront of a 10p slot, a £5 note was inserted and I slumped on a stool behind her. A croupier laughed at the look of exhaustion on my face. I needed a drink, Stan was behind the bar, but it was rammed. I knew I had no chance of sitting at the bar for 10 mins, so I watched the reels going round and round and listened to the jungles and clanks of the stupid machines. I just don’t get what enjoyment they provide, but clearly they do too many.

Mums bed is calling her. I lay on the bed myself for 5 minutes and was oh so tempted to go for it. But no, I’m on a cruise! The night is young – only 8.00pm infact, so once mum is tucked up I head off out to see whats what. Its pre dinner to most people, which is what it should be to me too, but at the moment it feels like about 11.00pm. oh its been a long day. There appears to be people everywhere, but I think thats more the way it feels due to my tiredness. I wondered along deck 7 and headed to Planet Bar. At last sanctuary, it was so peaceful and quiet. I know I have moaned in the past that Planet Bar has been to quiet and the new ‘Meridian lounge’ of the sea, but tonight I more than appreciated the total tranquillity of the palace. I sat at the bar and had a cosmo. It was perfect. The barman, Sid, was chatty and welcoming, but not in my face and I think he could tell I just wanted to sit quietly and chill. He seemed disappointed when I said I was only having the one, but I have told him I will be back and he said there will always be a place at his bar for me. I will be back because he made me feel welcome.

Back down to deck 7 and every where is still busy despite one sitting still being in dinner. Glass House was quiet and I bumped into Al, and sat at the bar chatting and drinking Blind River for well over an hour. Ive suddenly slipped into holiday mode. All is well with my world at sea (as long as I don’t think about the internet situation!) Me and Al had a big catch up and its been 11 years since his first contract when I met him. I should have bought photos of him as a waiter in Andersons on Oriana, maybe one for FaceBook at some point, lol.

I was heading for my bed, but couldn’t resist sticking my head in the theatre. It was packed, but the show was excellent and before I knew it I had found a seat and was enjoying Headliners show of ‘My Generation’ it was fabulous. I really really enjoyed it!! Might give the theatre another whirl during my long evenings, that seem to be starting late afternoon lol.

I was in bed for 11.30pm but it somehow felt like about 3.30am. maybe I should start my late nights earlier in future, maybe its the way forward for more sleep time?

Saturday 23rd July 2011 – at sea

It was difficult to ignore my 4.40am wake up call, closely followed by the 5.20am wakeup call. At 6.45am I decided I could ignore mums requests for tea and toast no longer, so I got up and very grumpily boiled the kettle. Gosh they are noisy those kettles – or was it my head that was a little sensitive?! Unfortunately P&O have not stretched to the facility of providing a toaster in the cabin, and I knew that Mum would not approve of tinder cold toast bought via room service. Her simple response to that knock back was that I should ask them to bring some hot toast. But my explanation of the fact that the room service steward has to carry it from the galley, all the way forward to C deck, plus make some other deliveries on the way was lost on her. I begrudgingly introduced myself to the shower and the White linen toiletries and within 20 mins I looked almost human again.

I really didn’t expect to see so many people in the Peninsular Restaurant for breakfast, but it was packed. I asked for a table for two because Im not feeling very sociable. My request was met but the table was not an easy location to negotiate with a wheelchair. We were soon seated, wheelchair was whisked away for safe keeping and cheerful waiter appears and offers tea or coffee. Mum was straight in with her request of apple juice, bacon egg and tomato not forgetting the toast and marmalade! Melon followed by fruit and fibre did me just fine. You will be pleased to hear that the toast was warm and met with Mums approval.

After a walk around deck 7 & 6 the shops were open and the biggest blue ring had caught Mums eye. It wasn’t long before that was in a bag!

There is no sign of the sun this morning, but it wasn’t really expected given the UK weather recently. Mum was tired after her early morning efforts to wake me so she is currently checking the insides of her eyelids!

My funny story of the morning was an elderly lady that I bumped into on deck 5 forward by the stairs. She was looking very bewildered so I asked if I could help. She looked up and pointed to the green Exit sign just inside the corridor, which pointed in towards the stairwell and lifts. She was stood looking around by the lifts looking for the door to outside. I explained, as best as I could that we were inboard, so she cant get out, plus there is no open deck on deck 5 and she needed deck 7. “But it says Exit” she kept insisting “and I want to get out for some fresh air. My outside cabin is inside” Clearly her travel agent didn’t explain that one very well! Anyone know a good travel agent?! I didn’t know which I was going to do first – laugh or loose my patience trying to explain, so when she suggested she was going to walk down the other side toward Java I let her go on her way.

Noon announcement from the bridge has just finished. I can only guess that the officer of the watch was on some sort of a challenge because he was coming out with some pretty random facts. Not sure why I needed to know that this was the day that Prince Andrew married Sarah Ferguson? I would have liked to have know what the weather forcast was but all we were told was that its currently 15 degs. At least its calm and we are nearly out of the Bay of Biscuits.

Mum is now awake, and she has decided its lunch time, so we must go in search of food. I don’t think I am in the mood for the buffet bun fight so might have to go civilised and dine in the Peninsular again.

Peninsular restaurant it was. I had the healthy option of lentil soup followed by berries with fromage frais for desert, but I had a little less healthy option of mousaka in between. The food was hot and nicely presented, just as breakfast was. Enrico, gave me his recommendation for the wine choice, after the one I selected didn’t meet with his approval. I have known Enrico for many years now, so I think he is qualified to tell me what I should be drinking. I liked it so much I bought the bottle and it will be available in the Freedom dining restaurant for me later. After lunch we perused the shops for what must be the 7th time in less than 24 hrs!

Kings Speech was on in Malabar and it was packed out. Hopefully they will show it again later in the cruise and I get to see it. We walked through deck 15 buffet dining areas and immediately a Head Waiter asked how I was. I confess I hadn’t got a clue who he was, but he informed me it had been 12 years since he last saw me on Oriana and even told me which table I sat at in the Oriental! How do they do that? I was surprised at how many people were sat on deck and in the pool. It really is chilly, overcast and quite windy. Back in the cabin now and my bed is calling me. I wonder how long I have?

Well, it was one hour and 3 minutes to be precise! And a very nice little snooze it was too. Back to my lap top for a bit more stressing over internet connection or total lack of it in the cabin. I keep being advised that too many users are online. Blake and Ancy my right hand IT and Media experts have been superb at trying to sort me and my internet out, and I think it might have something to do with the age profile of pax onboard hence the high amount of people on line. Either that or its an excuse! So still no work done for me!

Its Captains Gala Reception this evening, and somehow we were both ready 45 minutes ahead of schedule. Decided to go and chill in Glass House with a glass or two of Canadin Fizz. Mum was more than happy to sit and watch all the dresses parade through. I wasn’t too bothered about Captains Welcome party but we lingered for a while on deck 7 and it was way to busy. I decided I could beat the system by getting into Freedom dining before the party got started properly, but when I turned up at the restaurant I was told it would be at least 9.00pm and was given a pager. Went back out to the ‘party’ but nothing exciting. Didn’t even get offered one drink!! Enough waiter passed me but more with empty trays than full. His cheap fizz would have only spoilt my Canadian Fizz. Went into dinner a little nervous at the thought of sharing a table, but we were so lucky, it was a fab table. We all had a good laugh and a natter and I want to sit with them every night now. It was very late when we left the restaurant, about 10.45pm I think so it was straight to bed for Mum. I had a wander through deck 7. Lots dancing in the Atrium and Malabar. Bradley Walsh (I think it was Bradley?) was on in the theatre. I headed up to Planet Bar but it was packed. No chance of my seat at the bar I thought. But straight away the bartender spotted me and waived me in. A bar stool was located for me and people at the bar made room for me. A nice Appletini to start off with. Lovely family to one side of me, who were actually my next door neighbours and they challenged me to name one of the European views on the screen that they couldn’t identify. It looked like Iceland to me and I was correct. I didn’t know I knew my locations that well myself! I was soon chatting away to Mary and John to the other side of me and several Cosmos and a southern comforts later I decided it was time for bed. Oh dear 10 to 3 in the morning. Im going to regret that in a few hours time! But a very enjoyable evening.

Sunday 24th July 2012 – at sea

Bliss, I got a lie in until 8.00am! I couldnt face the bun fight buffet so suggested to mum thaty she got up and we went to breakfast in Peninsular. We made it by 9.00am and that was a lot of hassle saved. Straight out onto Breakers and got my usual spot. Laid there in the sun until lunch time. It was Sunday and dint want to exert myself. I had a delicious lemon chicken baguette from the Grill and Mum had the fish goujons. It was getting very hot by now so we retreated to the cabin, so mum could lie down. I had to have another few issues with the new internet log in, but Blake and Ancy were again superb and sorted me out. I have been such a pain, but at least we have had a few laughs too. They will be glad to see the back of me I’m sure.

Its baking hot on the balcony. So hot that it can only be dealt with in short bursts. But its a lovely way to spend Sunday afternoon.

Semi Formal night tonight, or the new wording is Smart – Jacket required. It became apparent to me as soon as I got out of the lift on deck 7 that too many people had taken the word ‘Smart’ too literally. Gone of the days of cocktail dresses thats for sure, and a lot of men without jackets. I honestly thought I had read the dress code wrong but I checked with ents team on theatre doors and I was correct. Certainly not a lot to see from our ‘frock watching’ seats.

Went down to Freedom dining at 7.45,and straight in because we agreed to table share. We got allocated a table of 10 which was too big for mum. The table were struggling to communicate and mum only wanted a main course but had to wait for the other 9 to be served two courses before she could eat. So it was a long meal for her and wanted her bed by the time we were out of there.

By the time I came back down from the cabin Zoe Tyler was just finishing in the theatre, so I didn’t get to see her. I headed for my usual place in Planet Bar and it was packed with everyone watching a stunning sunset at the stern. Straight away the lads found me a bar stool and cosmo was served. Fair play to the barstaff, they were trying to ensure that dress code was upheld and that gents who entered were wearing a jacket. Later in the evening, as it got warm, Alan and John slipped their jackets off and hung them on the back of a barstool. We were mid conversation, when a rude man appeared and asked where their jackets were. He was clearly not happy because he had been sent away to get one, or choose another bar. Top marks to the barstaff because thats the way it should be. Jackets required is what it says. He was clearly trying to cause a lot of aggravation and went off around the room checking for jackets. I had to smile and comment to the barstaff and ask why some ladies were ‘allowed’ daywear. P&O take note – the definition of the dress codes is poorly worded. ‘Elegant Casual, jacket required’ would be better than smart casual, jacket required. Personally I cant see what was wrong with Semi Formal?

It was about 2.00am when we left Planet. Mary & John went for scoobie snax and I was tempted, but knew I shouldn’t. I couldn’t face the long corridor walk of deck 10 so opted to go down to deck 7. Teens were everywhere. Manhattan was packed and playing some very loud thumping music. There were teens out on deck, teens congregated in the photo gallery, there were alot everywhere. Non of them doing any harm or causing any mischief from what I could see but just enjoying themselves.

Monday 25th July 2011 – still at sea

Yes, we are still at sea. Seems a long run down to the med this time. My morning wouldn’t be complete without my visit to see Ancy in the Library and discuss my latest internet issues. Connection to the internet in the cabin on wifi is causing me major issues, a problem I have never had before, but this new fangled way of internet usage is meaning some are taking all the bandwidth – ooh get me and my new learnt lingo! I will be a total expert by the time I get of this ship thanks to Ancy and Blake.

Gold Portunas lunch today and you all know how much I love them! (rolls eyes) Didnt want mum to miss out so I have again agreed to go. Bring on the days of my super special Ligurian event, and slippers!!

So 12 noon, and the Goldies are gathering outside the Medridian restaurant. Table 97 for us and what will that bring I wonder. Well, we had the fortune of a lovely host by the name of Danielle who runs the Whitewall gallery, plus one other couple. The remaining 4 seats were set but they didn’t arrive, then a gentleman came to join us who had had his family split up over 3 tables, and he had left his designated table to allow his teenage children to sit with their mum. Danielle was lovely and certainly saved the day, but as I have said for a long long time these events are no longer that special to those of us that cruise frequently. Kathy Jones Exec Purser did come round the tables to say Hello etc but I do wonder why some Captains address the room and others don’t bother? There were no words from the Captian for us. Mr C will be delighted to learn that I have managed to offload my lovely shiny Portunus gift. I don’t wish to sound ungrateful P&O but there is only so many silver coloured coasters that I actually want or need. Mr C curses the little blue boxes at home that take up space in every random draw he seems to open. I had them last Feb & May, I had them this January and I really thought someone else would appreciate the shiny coasters a lot more than I did, so that was my good deed for the day. So yes, lunch was very pleasant, but not something I needed a couple of hours after getting out of my bed.

Back to my laptop and still I cant connect. I just want to sit in a dark room and cry now. Unfortunately for Ancy its time for me to visit her again. She reaches for the phone and pages Blake. They really are absolute stars. Their patience is amazing. They have this new system in place that they have to trial and then they have people like me to deal with that don’t understand the first thing about Megabites etc, although, I do know a lot more now that I did 3 or 4 days ago! Blake refuses to give up on me and he is well on his way to going beyond the extra 10 miles for me. Every time I leave the library I know he must be hoping its the last time lol. But in a nice way because I know he and Ancy just genuinely want my internet issues to be resolved, or a solution worked out and I can carry on as normal enjoying my holiday and keeping on top of my work.

The sun was balsting on the balcony. As it had been all day, so I grabbed and hour. But then made the fatal mistake of fetching a Cuba Libra and by the time I got back the sun had gone over the top of the ship. Time to check out my duvet and mattress then!

Sleep time was good. I managed to grab a whole hour. Formal night tonight and I decided it was time we paid a visit to Blue Bar for my Garden Tea martini. Oh no!! They don’t have it on the menu anymore. Had to settle for a cosmo. Linda and Chris joined us for a pre dinner drink, so that made for more than a pleasant change. Enjoyed it so much we had two pre dinner drinks. I also spotted that they served my Canadian fizz in there too so I had a glass of that. Mum was in her element watching all the formal gowns coming and going up the Atrium stairs. She even saw a wedding party but didn’t think to inform the rest of us so we could have a nose too. Chris was despatched for a bleeper to Freedom dining, but he failed in his mission because the queue was massive. I went to see what I could do and found that the blonde hair and eyelashes helped. I had a lovely meal of tiger prawns with rice and sweet and sour sauce, followed by banana soufflé.

Cher tribute was on in Manhattan, not as busy as the other tribute acts so I managed to see a snippet of her before venturing up to Planet Bar. I was only going to have the one drink but then Sid offered to make me my Garden Martini. That turned into two. John and Mary went to bed and I was seriously considering it, but to late another drink had arrived. Two blokes were annoying me at the bar, just speaking about me and clearly were out without their other halves and presuming I was on the pull or something. Those sort of blokes really wind me up! I was glad when they left, but could see their reflections out in the stairwell and the one decided he was coming back for another try. He seemed quite put out with my brush off, which was quite blunt, the bartender clocked it and he looked after me. He even escorted me out of the room when I left to make sure I wasn’t followed. Thats what I like about P&O I always feel safe, and the bartenders must know to look out for that sort of thing. Thats another member of staff who have gone the extra mile for me. meanwhile, I hope the idiot on the pull thinks about his actions in the future!

Tuesday 26th July 2011 – Barcelona

I cant quite understand why the nights are getting shorter? How come there is no time for sleeping? My early morning wake up announcement from the next bed informed me that I needed to get up. We have to go to breakfast! We aren’t even inside the harbour wall of Barcelona yet, whats the rush. The sun is blazing through the balcony doors and its scorching on the balcony. Its not even 8.00am yet. I scraped into breakfast at 5 to 9 just before doors closed. Lots of tea later I was starting to wake up.

We didn’t dock until 9.00am but it seemed like the entire ship was queuing to get off. I have never seen anything like it. The queue went right round deck 6 atrium and back through Brodies. We went back to the cabin to avoid that one. I think it was just a combination of docking later, first port, 3 days at sea and them all needing to set foot on land. Queue for the shuttle buses doesn’t look fun either, so will give them an hour to clear before venturing ashore.

By the time we were ready to go ashore there was no hint of any queues. We walked straight off, assisted all the way through the airbridge by two wheelchair pushers, through the terminal building and straight onto a bus. There was a wheelchair adapted minibus, but it was only taking one chair at a time, which didn’t seem that efficient, and there were already two wheelchair users waiting. The Barcelona ground crew suggested I board the next bus first with mum and he kept everyone back while I got her on the bus under her own time. Las Ramblas was hot and packed as usual! Not very many living statues though so there was no little bottle necks as I tried to pass them. I was paranoid about getting my bag lifted but a handy little pocket in the back of mums wheelchair meant I could stow it away out of sight. We walked two thirds of the way up las Ramblas, through the shopping precinct, round the top and back down the length of las Ramblas. That was enough excitement for one day. Back down to the shuttle buses and straight onto the wheelchair adapted one and straight back to the ship.

Upto Breakers Bar for a long cold drink. It was getting on for 2.00pm and it was deserted. Even the pool below was empty. Thats just how I like my ships! Cocktail of the day was a Hurricane so it went down very nicely. No queuing at Frankies Grill today either and mum had her usual fish goujons and I opted for the chicken and bacon baguette, washed down by a second Hurricane. We really were melting so it was retreat to the cabin. I could see we were about to loose the sun on our side and sure enough, by the time I had changed and cooled down, the sun had popped over the top of the ship and cast a shadow on our balcony. Mum had a snooze so I escaped to the Terrace Bar right at the back of the ship and baked for 10 minutes while I sipped on another Hurricane. Time for a snooze after my busy day, lol.

Casual night tonight and oh boy do some take that literally! I managed to slip in my glass of Canadian fizz en route to dinner. Dinner was very quiet tonight due to the Indian Buffet upstairs. I like the Indian buffet but Mum wouldn’t enjoy so traditional dining for us. We had a nice table again and lovely meal. I asked if ‘always available’ was still available because I hadn’t seen it mentioned anywhere on the menus, but after some checking the waiter informed me that they no longer offered it as an option. I didn’t want any alternative, I really was just curious. I had a lovely meal of Salmon followed by strawberry shortbread.

Zoe Tyler was on in the theatre and people kept telling me how good her first show was, so I wanted to see her. Her show was packed with standing room only. I stood at the back but it was so warm I had to leave after about three songs, but yes, she was indeed excellent and well worth going to see if you get the chance.

Malabar was also packed out with a comedian, and there was a lot of laughing going on so can only presume he was good too. Planet Bar for me, and John and Mary were already there. I told them all about my experiences from the night before. The two men didn’t return tonight so all was well. Sid made us some excellent cocktails again including a Raspberry Creme brule which was like a meal in a glass, and a lovely margarita with salt rim. Time for bed and I was escorted by John and Mary to keep me out of trouble. We went via deck 7 and was going to walk along the outside. Oh my goodness how many teens were out there smoking. The deck was rammed and we struggled to get by. I would also guess that some of them had been drinking too so maybe supplies were obtained ashore?! I have seen the kids security out and about so I’m sure they are keeping an eye on them. I wouldn’t be happy to know my youngster was out in such a big crowd though.

Wednesday 27th July 2011 – Toulon

Oh dear, grey skys and a bit of drizzle but its early. I couldnt be bothered to make the effort to get breakfast in the restaurant so I braved a walk upto self service and acquired some toast and a couple of pastries. It wasn’t too bad as it wasn’t busy. We had been to Toulon last September and personally I didn’t think it worth the effort to take the 30 min shuttle bus into Toulon from the dockside. Last year it cost a shuttle bus fee of $48 for the four of us with Celebrity which I would not pay again, and is one of the reasons Celebrity wouldn’t be my own personal choice of cruise line. Im sure it is the port authoritys that are keen to have us in the ports so Im never too sure why P&O can provide complimentary shuttle services and other cruise lines cant. The complimentary shuttle service is greatly appreciated though. The weather still isn’t brilliant and it made a couple of attempts to drizzle while we stood in the queue for the shuttle bus on the quay side. There was already a queue for the wheelchair adapted one, so we opted for the non adapted coach and two gentlemen very kindly moved from the front seat to allow mum to be seated without too much hassle. It is a long boring drive into Toulon, hampered by stop start traffic. Mum has a unique way of marking her ports of call for enjoyment, and for Mum Toulon scored 11 out of 10. Which loosly translates to she got plenty of bargains on the market. It is a nice little market and a pleasant enough shopping street. The street does open up into a more commercial town centre and shopping mall but we didn’t venture that far. Back through the harbour and we joined the queue for the bus back to Azura. We were quite lucky and we were only one shuttle bus length back, but the queue soon formed because all the shuttle bus drivers appeared to be in lunch, and loads of buses were parked up on the side of the car park. We managed to get on the second bus back, but by then the queue was way back across the car park and back to the gates. A lot of fed up looking passengers. The drive back was a little quicker than getting there at around 25 mins, but just as we stepped off the bus the heavens opened and we got drowned running to the front of the ship for the wheelchair access gangway. We went straight into Peninsular because I wasn’t sure what time it closed and had a very enjoyable lunch with a glass of wine.

The weather wasn’t going to improve so it was time to catch up with some sleep.

I woke up and decided I was going to ‘Recreate the Majic’ of our first formal night dining table and contacted Debbie and her boys, plus Linda & Chris to arrange to meet for pre dinner drinks in Blue Bar followed by dinner in Meridian. We had a lovely lovely evening, and a nice meal with lots of chatter.

At about 5.30 this evening there was an announcement form the purser reminding all of the dress code of the evening. It was a ‘semi formal’ evening, and like I said the other day, I feel that the termination ‘smart – jacket required for gents’ is getting very misinterpreted. It sounds simple enough to understand, but the mixture of bold and normal print in the daily newssheet leans more towards the casual, and I feel thats what a lot of people dressed as last time. So tonight passengers have been warned that gents must wear a jacket if dining in Peninsular, oriental or Meridian, and drinking in Blue bar, Planet and somewhere else which I cant recall. What a shame the restaurant managers didn’t uphold the dress code because I saw a few gents come into dinner in check shirts, open neck shirts or tshirts – all without a jacket. There were certainly plenty dressed the same throughout the ship later too.

A lot of people were heading for Rome tomorrow so many had taken to their beds early. I went to my usual spot in Planet Bar and joined Mary & John for drinks. They had been to XVII for a meal this evening and said it was superb. I will get to try that place one day. Alann decided to grace us with his presence this evening so he some catching up to do with all the recent events of dodgy men at the bar etc lol.

Thursday 28th July 2011 – Civitavecchia

Its a hot one today! I had looked out and had wrongly presumed we were berthed a little closer to the port gate this time, so after breakfast in the Peninsular restaurant we went ashore nice and early. I thought about getting the shuttle bus to the port gates, but non of the mobility ones were there and I just couldn’t be doing with the hassle of boarding mum on and off the non adapted one. So I decided it wasn’t far to walk. Well, it might not be far to walk on a normal day, but in the searing heat, complete with a delicate little hangover, and the sun blasting onto me, it felt like a trek across the desert. When I eventually reached the port gates I recalled that the precinct was on a slight incline and I had to push the wheelchair up it. Oh boy this market had better be open when I got there. Thankfully it was, and it was in the shade, which was bliss and greatly appreciated. A bottle of ice cold water would have been appreciated more but Mum was on a mission. Bags and shiney things to be looked at. Mum is very good at bartering and does the ‘oh I don’t have enough Euros left’ thing. She managed 3 handbags and a necklace today. Not paying more than 12 euros for any of them. I got a lovely white sparkly kaftan swimwear coverup for 5 euros and a much needed fushia pink handbag, for 10 euros. So we were able to leave happy after a successful shopping mission. I was hoping to get the bus back to the ship, but once we were through the port gate the pavement was very uneven and difficult to negotiate with a wheelchair. There were people getting off buses and people clambering to get on buses, with 5 ships it was too chaotic and I gave up within about 30 seconds. Yes, I walked all the way back again. In that heat!!! I really am crackers. Got to the cabin and Mum was ‘worn out’ how does that happen then? Nice comfy ride in a wheelchair v’s pushing the dam thing and she is the one in the need of a lie down. Mum opted for her bed, I opted for a very quick change, my sunlounger up by breakers and a cocktail. A Missionarys Downfall to be precise and very nice it was too! Ahhh thats better!! Im really surprised at how many people have stayed onboard today. Civitavecchia usually means an empty ship but not today. I keep the suntan lotion and cocktail levels nicely topped up, and also keep checking on mum.

I bought her back on deck for some lunch but it was too hot for her so I pushed her into the shade for a while. Then I started to melt, so had to do something about it and went and sat in the shade for a while. As I wandered over to the railings for a nosey I felt a lovely breeze. Oh it was bliss, so I parked mum against the railings and she was happy watching the passengers arrive back on the buses and supervising the workmen who have been extending the harbour defence for over 12 months now. I laid on my lounger and let the breeze glide over me, oh it was heaven. I kept nodding off, goodness whats wrong with me, anyone would think I trekked into town this morning. Mum needed her bed again, so I took her back down and then came back to my sunlounger. I put the light out and I was gone in nanao seconds. Trouble was a woke up dribbling which is never good.

Disaster when I got to the cabin and could see that I had caught the sun all the way down one side of my face and not the other. Have to sort that out tomorrow.

Casual night tonight and a suitable maxi dress was sorted for me, but mum was not so easy to please with her choice of wear this evening. A much welcomed, nice relaxing pre dinner drink or two in Glass House. This has become one of my favourite spots for pre dinner drinks. Its chilled and relaxed, it has my favourite Peller Canadian Fizz and my favourite wine Blind River. Lots of people watching opportunities as they come and go to the various locations, so plenty of dress code watching opportunities and there were some interesting ones this evening. Its amazing how some can interpret the ‘casual’ element.

Went for dinner in the Meridian at about 10 past 8, after stopping for a photo in the Atrium. Not so sure it will be to my liking in casual attire but thought I would give it a go. Very pleasant table for 8 this evening, and a lovely meal again. Dover sole was very nice, treacle tart was very fattening.

A little browse of the shops but it was toy sale night so nothing much to see. We walked through Brodies and it was busy as usual. This was our usual hang out last time we were on Azura but it just seems too busy this time around for me to even consider.

After mum was in bed I went for my usual little wander. I caught the end of the Cher and Queen Tribute, which was ok but I didn’t think they particularly went together to sing the finale.

I was at Planet Bar before Mary and John this evening. I asked Sid for something long cold and fruity and he obliged with a Raspberry Mojhito. Highly recommended! Everyone is tired this evening, the heat of Civitavecchia has zapped us all, plus lots of people had spent the day in Rome, so the ship in general was quiet. I had my earliest night ever of the cruise and headed for my bed before 1.00am. its the first time I have walked past Malabar and Blue Bar when they have been open on my way to bed lol.

Friday 29th July 2011 – Naples

We have berthed port side too again today so no quay side for us to observe, but I do think we might get the sun this afternoon. We have been port side too in every port apart from Barcelona so far. MSC Sinfonia has just come in and berthed behind us. We have a clear view across the bay and I expect the sun to be on our side later this afternoon.

After a bit of breakfast out on the aft Terrace we ventured ashore. At last they have dragged the Naples terminal building into the 21st century, although I did quite like the charm of the old fashioned little shop units within the original terminal. Its now more of a designer oultlet. Some very nice shoe and fashion stores and nice jewellery etc. We didn’t buy anything and I didn’t venture any further than the upper floor of the terminal. We were back onboard within half an hour and sat at Breakers bar enjoying a large rum punch. It is very very hot again, but there is an occasional gentle breeze just wafting across the deck. It is a struggle to sit it out though and we manage it until noon when we go down a deck for a spot of lunch in the shade. But then Headliners started to rehearse for tonights deck party. Blimeys, I know it was a sound check, but I hope it sounds better on the night!! Had to get away from that din.

Back down to the cabin and result – the balcony is in full blown sunshine. Mum has her bed to curl up in, I have the balcony to sunbathe on and I can nip in and out to check my emails from my laptop.

Decided this afternoon would be a good time to do some laundry. No, I got that wrong! It was extremely busy in there! I stood around and waited for a washer, and I did get lucky with a tumble dryer becoming free when I needed one. Some people looked like they were doing a weeks wash for a family of four in there. I just did the essentials and got out. so a very lazy afternoon really just pottering, chilling and lazing on the balcony. Most strenuous thing I did was walk a few yards to the laundrette.

Tropical Party tonight, so tropical gear was donned, well for me a long bright dress. Pre dinner drinks in Blue Bar with Linda & Chris, Debbie Christian and Kieran. We are dining together so I am despatched to obtain the bleeper. This is where Freedom dining falls down for me. We are enjoying some pre dinner drinks and we know that we want to dine as a party of 7. Not quite ready now, so try and pre empt the situation by trying to get a bleeper for a table becoming ready between say 8.20 and 8.50. But no, restaurant manager informs me it cant be done. We can go in now – but we are all enjoying a drink, or we can come down when we are ready and take pot luck. If there isn’t an table we will get a bleeper. Isnt that a bit antiquated? its a lot to get mum in her wheelchair and down to deck 5, only to be sent away again to sit and wait. We did go down at about 10 past 8, so as to avoid the 8.30 rush and did get a table allocated to us. Trouble was it was right under an airvent and it was very chilly. It was like the north wind blowing down on mum and I had to go back to the cabin and get her a woolly cardigan. We had a lovely meal again and lots of fun.

didn’t stand much chance. I decided to retreat to Planet Bar and enjoyed a quiet couple of drinks sat at the bar. The ship had got that little bit of a bobble on and the gentle rocking was making me sleepy. For me it was an early night, but it was good to snuggle under my duvet. It was even early enough for me to comprehend and order some room service breakfast.

Saturday 30th July 2011 – Ajaccio

My eyes opened at about 5.30am this morning and there was the most stunning sunrise. I should have made the effort to get out of my bed to see it properly but I couldn’t . Next thing I knew room service was knocking on the door at 8.00am. Yay, toast was still warm so race was on to get it buttered for mum before it went cold. I enjoyed my cornflakes and juice out on the balcony as we made our approach to Ajaccio. It was a stunning sail in. We had a helicopter along side, presumably taking photos for a brochure or a video perhaps. Im sure we have always been at tender here, but looks like they have built a new berth because we docked. Starboard side to, too. The church bells were ringing, we are overlooking the harbour and it is just stunning. Very very pretty. And I can see the market is open today so Mum will be happy.

Napoleon and his men came down to the quayside to great us. They did a little parade and a changing of the guard. Only trouble was they decided to put two of Napoleons guards on the main gangway, and do a changing of the guard every few minutes. It was fun, but P&O officers in white suits didn’t think so, and came and marched them on a bit further down the ship. They looked very impressive but were causing a bit of chaos by the main gangway with everyone wanting photos with them as they came down the gangway. They drummed on their drums and marched about for a bit before retreating back through the port gates.

It was only a short stroll into town, but the market didn’t score too highly with Mum. It was packed, the alleys were too tight and it was all on raised pavements with kerbs to negotiate all the time. Not easy with a wheelchair. I pushed the chair up the hill and across the square in the hope that I could get down the other side to the beach, but it wasn’t to be because there was no wheelchair access. I walked all the way back across the square and tried to cut down to the beach along a side street but the pavements were just ridiculous. Very uneven, and the stupid French had parked their mopeds on the pavements! I got out to the main road and then couldn’t negotiate the deep kerbs because of the gulleys between road and pavement. So instead I walked along the road and held up all the traffic. Lots of inviting little cafes and bars in the harbour, but no Mr C to share the experience with so straight back to the ship. We were so quick that Minguel hadn’t made up the cabin. Poor lad was horrified! So I felt obliged to retreat to Breakers Bar for a cooling drink. Had a bit of trouble obtaining my Moscow Mule today. They aren’t on the menu, and I was told today they aren’t on the micros, but I know they are and I had one or two the other day. Showed him the bill to prove it, and then barman and barsteward set too to find it for me. Its on page 2 under E if any of the seniors in the bar department would like to put that right for future reference!

Lunchtime was approaching and Mum has agreed at last to return to Glass House. She really likes the food in there, but being ‘old school’ cruising she objects to paying a supplement for food on a cruise ship. No point arguing with her about it because I wont convince her otherwise. Anyway, we made it to Glass House and it was total tranquillity. So cool in there, totally empty and we were the only people along with about 7 bar staff. We had a nice table by the window with big comfy chairs that made me want to curl up and just go to sleep. I ordered myself a bottle of Blind River, not with the intention of drinking it all, but it means I can take it back to my cabin and drink at my leisure. Mum had catch of the day and I had 3 dishes. Oh my goodness, just the tempura prawns would have been enough for me. I also had the ham risllette and the salmon fishcakes. Even went beserk at the end and had the morello cherry desert to share! Mum soon squirreled the cherries of the top, so it was left to me to dive down for the cherries at the bottom. Lunch had left us both stuffed. Straight back to the cabin and mum was soon under the duvet. I retreated to the balcony and before I knew it my eyes were closed and I was fast asleep. I spent the afternoon laying on the bed and on the balcony. Most strenuous thing I did was fetch a glass of cola from Breakers.

Semi formal night tonight, or the new ‘Smart with jacket required’. 5.45pm and the fashion police were on the tannoy again very sternly stating exactly what the expected dress code is this evening. Like I said, it would be a lot clearer if they went back to the ‘Semi formal jacket required statement, cocktail dress foe ladies’!

We had a little browse of the shops this evening, then a formal photo at the top of the atrium, then it was pre drinner drinks time in Blue Bar. Linda and Chris were not far behind us and then Debbie and the boys arrived. We went down to dinner at 8.15 and no problem getting a table today. It wasn’t the best dining experience tonight for me. First of all I asked the wine waitress for a glass of pinot gris but she was most insistent that they didn’t serve it by the glass. I was pretty dam sure that they did, but opted for the safe bet of sauvignon blanc instead. I was told in no uncertain terms that I couldn’t have that and to read the menu which she would fetch. Wine menu never arrived. So I had to call her again. Oh look Pinot Gris, large glass please!! First time I have experienced that, but like I have said before they no longer employ dedicated wine waiters and instead just rotate the bar staff to wait in the restaurants. Sometimes it clearly doesn’t work. I had chosen Maple glazed chicken for my main, but when it came it looked like a grey poached piece of chicken. Not appetising at all. I took one of the French fries, stone cold. The chicken – even colder. All of the food had been really good up until this point. I checked mums duck and that was ok. Why me? Eventually the waiter appeared to check if all was well with everyones meals, but I had to inform him mine was far from ok. No apology, he just informed me ‘it shouldn’t be’ and took it away. No rush was made to get me a replacement, and my dish went back with the waiter when he went to fetch another tables order. He didn’t even make an effort to serve me first on his return and served the other table first. Of course everyone at our table had long finished their meal, so for me the moment of wanting to eat had passed. Oh dear, just one of those nights I guess. Best part of tonights meal for me was the absolute stunning sunset outside the window.

I was going to see ‘Blame it on the Boogie’ in the theatre, but it hadn’t started by the time I put mum to bed, so instead I went upto Planet after stopping for a brief look at the photos. Oh dear, we had a laugh in there tonight. I have no idea what was going on, it really was all a bit random, but it was very funny and me and Mary laughed and laughed! Alan put in an appearance, and Debbie came up to see what a night out in Planet was like, so all in all a good time was had by all. The drinks were flowing, nothing unusual there. It was a late one and I had to creep into the cabin in the dark. Its not easy to be quiet when you are still giggling.

Sunday 31st July 2011 – at sea

We are just gliding along and hardly breaking the sea this morning. Its like glass, with barely a ripple as we pass through it. There is some land to the starboard side, but I have no idea what it is. The bridge have just announced a pod of dolphins down the port side, so all is good for a Sunday.

Pursers department have just made a very stern warning about the reservation of sunbeds and the Horizon daily paper also had a big piece in it stating that anyone who goes out early, for the purpose of reserving sunbeds, will have their belongings removed. There will also be regular 15 minute checks throughout the day and belongings removed. I have just walked through decks 16 and 15, and there were pairs of officers all along both decks watching for the reservation of sunbeds. Its also very clearly stated on the big screen.

Breakfast is not going well this morning. Mum doesn’t want to get up so I had to fetch toast from the self service. Of course it was cold by the time I got it back to the room, so that has not gone down to well. I have had to call room service to come and save the day, but mum is having trouble comprehending why its taking him more than two minutes. Room service breakfast was a total disaster this morning. The tea was a pot of warm coffee. The Danish pastrys were two bread rolls and the toast was cold and crunchy. It did take a long long time to arrive too.

I ended up with a refreshing glass of Pimms by Breakers this morning. Thats a cool way to start a Sunday on a cruise ship lol. I soon spotted two sunloungers becoming available and we settled down on there for a while to soak up the rays. After the disastrous breakfast I fetched mum a nice early lunch of cold meats and salad. She was ready for her bed after that. I had planned a nice chilled out day on the balcony with my bottle of wine, but the sun decided it was going to spend the morning directly above the ship and then took the lean towards the port side. I went back on deck for an hour, had some goujons and fries, but the fun in the sun by the pool was a little too much for me today. I needed peace and quiet so eventually retreated to the cabin.

I couldn’t settle in the cabin so went for a wander. I have to say mid afternoon and I could have found a sunlounger in nearly all of the locations, and I’m sure if I had ventured upto deck 19 etc I would have found virtually empty decks. I walked through the buffet and the smell of chocolate from the chocoholics buffet was to sickly for me. It is nowhere near as impressive in the buffet dining venues as it used to be set up in the main restaurants. Gallley walk though too today, but not sure how popular it was. Linda was having a quiet 5 mins down by the Terrace Pool so I joined her for a cocktail and lots of girly chat.

Meanwhile, back at the cabin. Mum was cold and the heat hit me as soon as I walked through the door. Doors shut, heating whacked up to the extreme. Oh dear soon got that sorted and went out on the balcony for some fresh air. Despite the sun lingering over the top of the ship, one corner of our balcony is now basking in sunshine, but its very very hot. I cant win today.

Portunus party and black & white night tonight. Had a lovely chat with Captain Paul, who isn’t actually the Captain this cruise, but he is my current favourite Captain so I was really pleased to see him. Hopefully the feeling was mutal ; ) Then I chatted to Blake the Media Manager who has actually been my new best friend this cruise. Blake and Ancy have just been absolute starts with helping me get my head around this trial of MB internet usage, and for me, both of them have gone the extra mile. If I personally could give the awards for CRUISE Award then both of them would receive one. They both really have gone the extra mile for me, shown sheer patience and are both a credit to P&O. Captain Dowds made his speech and he isn’t the most engaging of Captains at gaining attention, but the people at the back of the room were so dam rude and continued to speak all the way through his speech, even when shh’d they continued on in their own little world. Very very rude! I was happy to leave. Met up with Linda and Chris down in Blue Bar and Linda was in control of obtaining a bleeper tonight. 10 minutes later we were into dinner. I had the exact same problem this evening with ordering a glass of wine that I did last night. Different wine waiter, because different section. “Glass of Pinot Gris please” ‘Madam we don’t serve Pinot Gris by the glass’ the whole table laughed out loud, obviously thinking ‘here we go again’ the nice wine waiter took some convincing, and was just about to fetch me a wine menu when he found what I wanted on his little hand held device. At least he was willing to look for it! Lovely tomato soup this evening. Yummy!

On the way out the restaurant the restaurant manager stopped me to apologise about last nights meal and the way it was handled. I had mentioned it to the F&B manager earlier I the day when we stopped for a catch up. I knew that it was unusual for the way it was handled at the time, so I was happy to learn that it had been noted and dealt with.

Mum went off to bed and I had a couple of emails to send that flatly refused to send earlier. Always a bit paranoid about messing with my internet after a few drinkies, but I double treble checked I had logged off and headed for Planet Bar. Oh we had a fab evening this evening. We laughed all night long. Neil and Matt came up for a drink, because Neil had heard about our legendary nights at the bar. For once we entertained the entertainment team. Apparently poor Matt had a bit of a blonde moment earlier and really thought we were going to Vigo. Poor Matt he took some stick for that. I cant really tell you a lot else about the evening other than a lot of cosmo’s and a lot of photos were involved. And treble the amount of laughing that we usually do. I even did a bit of dancing to Lady GaGa of all things! The night ended when we were the only ones left and the bar staff retreated to the corner for a lie down with their paperwork. We had kept them busy this evening. I wonder what we look like from the other side of the bar, lol.

You would think my evening ended there wouldn’t you. Well it didn’t. I always insist on taking the scenic route to bed, via deck 7. I was escorted by Alan. Bumped into Christian and some teens outside Manhattan who were very surprised to see us. Must have wondered what oldies were doing up at this time, lol. Alan and another teen in a kilt had a discussion about skidoo’s or something and we were on our way again. By the time I reached the cabin I realised I had a bit of Cinderella moment and had lost the tip off my heel of my shoe. Thankfully I spotted it further down the corridor.

Im no sooner through the door and Mum wants to inform me that a) its late, and b)the clocks have gone forward! Despite countless cosmo’s I managed to work out that Mum had read tomorrows newspaper and the clocks actually go back tomorrow night after Gibraltar. Easy for me to say, but you try explaining that one to a confused 89 year old who is having non of it! She also insisted on lecturing me about the lateness of the hour and wanting to know who, what, where and why I had been out until this hour! What hour? I had no comprehension of what time it was by now. I found taking the key card out of the energy slot by the door, and plunging the cabin into darkenss, put and end to mums whitterings and lectures because she had no idea where I was! Not so sure I did either!!

Monday 1st August 2011 – Gibraltar

Ooh I’m fresh as a daisy this morning. No, I really am. Drinking cosmo’s until the early hours must be the way forward. Up, washed, dressed and into Breakfast in Peninsular before 8.30am. Gibraltar big cloud of mist and drizzle is hovering over the rock of Gibraltar and the rest of the weather looks non too promising. I walked into town and back pushing the wheelchair. There are one or two new supermarkets opened up in the new units on the way into town. Every year when we come here there is a little bit more to the development of the walk into town. I managed to walk as far as M&S but Gib isn’t the easiest of places to negotiate with a wheelchair, so I was soon on my way back. We dodged a couple of showers this morning, but the by the time I got back to the balcony there was just a glint of sunshine. I fetched a wrap and a burger from Frankies Grill and enjoyed my lunch in the sun on the balcony with a glass of wine.

Sailaway was at 1.30pm, so I sat at Breakers with a Caribbean Cruises and along came Mary. So we sat and had a singsong together while Neil and the team exerted all their energy on the stage. I know I will get the blame for leading her astray later on. I had to go in search of some glue to fix my shoe from last night. The Emporium obliged with that. Bumped into Debbie and we went for a coffee and a Natter in Java. No escaping it, my bed is calling me. The weather isn’t brilliant and I cant be bothered to fight the wind for the sake of a bit more of a tan. So I had a meeting with my duvet. It was bliss. Until the call came out for ‘half a cup of tea’

The sea had a bit of a bobble on this evening and getting ready was a bit of a struggle. I couldn’t decide what to wear but settled for purple.

Had a bit of a wander looking at photos and then managed to get a seat in Blue bar for pre dinner drinks. That bar is getting busier and busier. Earlier and earlier. Lovely dinner in Meridian this evening. I had the Tandorri chicken, which was perhaps a little spicy for me, but very nice non the less. Negotiated a really nice Bin End this evening. I actually got one of the more experienced wine waiters for a change., which makes all the difference.

My usual spot in Planet Bar and it was buzzing up there again. Mohito man, Agi, was mixing me some very acceptable flavours of mojhito this evening. One of the bartenders went the extra mile and went to another bar to get me a glass of Peller Canadian Fizz. I also enjoyed a little Samba (thats a dance not a drink), not easy in high heels! I had to take the blame for leading Mary astray too earlier at the deck party. Im always in the frame for something! Alan put in a bit of a guest appearance too. I have no idea what time it was when I left but I know that I was the last out of there. Didn’t appear to be many teens down on deck 7 either. Battle of the clocks resumed when I got back to the cabin again. Mum has put them back and forward so many times now, that even I’m confused what time it is. (don’t think the peartinis, mixture of mohitos, Canadian Fizz, and cosmos helped much!)

Tuesday 2nd August 2011 – Lisbon

You might not believe this but mum woke me at some unearthly hour to ask if the clocks were back, forward or on their head! Fed up of time now!!! She tried to tell me it was ‘half a cup of tea time’ but I was having non of it! I heard the buzz of the bees on the 25th April Bridge as we glided underneath it, but even that couldn’t raise me from my bed though. I caved in eventually and obliged with a half cup of tea. Getting mum out of bed for breakfast wasn’t easy. Anyone would think it was mum that had been out sampling the delights of the bars until the early hours. Made it to breakfast in Peninsular and I opted for a cooked breakfast for once. I find it quieter than the crunch of the cereals.

Lisbon is very over cast and we disembarked and were straight onto one of the wheelchair friendly buses. Meant I had to stand a wheelchair watch though. It drizzled as strolled around Lisbon, nothing too drastic but some sunshine would have been appreciated. Mum added to her hoard of treasure she has purchased this cruise and added a ring and bracelet to the cache of 4 handbags, 2 rings, pair of shoes and a necklace! I was happy with my box of 6 warm custard tarts. Way too early to partake in some chicken & Chips so straight back on the bus to the ship. The sun is coming out just as we arrive on the dockside. Quick change and upto Breakers bar for me. Mum needs a lie down, again!

Collected mum at lunch time and we had a nice lemon chicken baguette in the sun. Sat for a while longer but it was getting too hot for mum, so we retreated to the balcony. I went for a wander around Prom and up to the bow on deck 8, before retreating to the balcony and catching a few more rays, because I have no idea how many are left?!

Great British Sailaway and you either love them or hate them, personally I’m a lover. Obviously I have attended a few in my time but this one seemed to have the entire ship in attendance. It was buzzing, the sun was beating down and Neil and his team were full of energy. Oh please Neil can I have a little bit of it. It was possibly one of the longest sailaway partys too. First we had to wait for a latecomer back to the ship (always one!) so a few party dances, then the Great British traditional ones were belted out as we let go the ropes and turned to go back under April 25th bridge. Anyone on that bridge must have thought we were totally bonkers, waiving our flags and cheering loudly. Hope it made them smile. The party just kept going, Pimms seemed to be coming at me from all directions and it was taking some keeping up with. Neil and his team finished with a walk through of the decks, lots of kisses and hand shakes and then back on stage for Azura theme tune and the elbow dance. Hats off to Neil and his team they are the very best at sea!

Meanwhile, back at the cabin I have 50 minutes to do a turnaround and get showered , dressed and out. Somehow, I don’t know how, I managed it. Pre dinner drinks in Planet this evening for a change, and I was going to be so good and have a cola, but somehow I heard myself asking for a Margeritta with salt rim! Really don’t know how that happened! We were eating in Trattoria this evening so at 7.30 I went to deck 15 to enquire about a table for 7. Impossible! Maximum is a 6, and we cant even have that one and squash because someone is already earmarked for it. Im told the best they can do is a table for 4, plus a table for 3, but wont guarantee they will be together or at the same time. I was given a laminated piece of paper with a number on it and told to come back at 8.30pm. No bleeper? No, madam we don’t give bleepers. Im not impressed, a very hit and miss service. Just after 8.30 we headed back down to Trattorria only to be told, not ready, and to come back in 15 to 20 mins. Is it me but would a bleeper system, like Meridian not be about 50 times more efficient? All way to hit and miss and he could tell I was not best pleased. We were invited to sit in the Cafe next door and wait. Not very pleasant as it was being cleaned at the time. Eventually we were seated, on a squashed table for 5, plus a table for 2! Not ideal. Best of it was there was a table for 8, two 4’s pushed together which had just left and could have been cleared and prepared in less than 5 minutes, but no attempt was made to accommodate and the table wasn’t used for the rest of the evening. Mum had no glass, no side plate etc and it wasn’t ideal. Wine service was slap dash, lighting was far too bright and no ambience created, and generally it wasn’t anywhere near as good as I had experienced on Ventura. But it could have been a one off and I need to try again at some point.

After mum had gone to bed I headed for my usual spot in Planet. But who are all these strangers? Why have so many people chosen this evening to visit ‘our’ bar? It was 60’s & 70’s deck party outside, Headliners were on in the theatre, there was a man singing in Malibar He could have been a vocalist, he could have been a comedian – it would help if I paid attention to the Horizon daily sheet, but no time for reading! I just wing everything and hope for the best. It works for me.

I was having a dress malfunction this evening but I’m guessing the lads behind the bar appreciated it. One of them was a bit shocked when I asked for a glass of cola at one point, I think he had to go for a lie down after that.

We were relatively early leaving, well early for us of late anyway. I went via deck 7 to check on the boys and girls and to see what they were upto. There has been a bit of trouble at mill, but I have to say that all of the teens that I have experienced have been a polite and very pleasant young adults.

I managed to get into bed, in complete darkness and mum never stirred, not even for half a cup of tea, or to ask what time the clocks went back forward etc.

Wednesday 3rd August 2011 – at sea

Last night I was asked what my perfect day would be. I responded with, sun on the balcony all morning so I could chill without any effort and then an afternoon in bed, followed my an evening of partying. Well, I got the blinding hot sun screaming through the curtains at what seemed like silly o’clock, and I would have appreciated it not being quite so fierce on my bed. Out of bed and into breakfast before 9 this morning – how do I do that? Even I don’t know! Cabin steward advised me enroute to keep my shades on. Apparently red slits for eyes is not a good look for a lady. Thought it rude to eat in my shades so they were removed and I hope nobody noticed.

Bun fight, summer sale, in Meridian this morning. Not my idea of fun at all, but a certain octogenarian likes a bargain so I had to oblige. It was packed. I couldn’t get near anything with a wheelchair so we were soon out of there. Bumped into Linda and Chris on the way out, and linda just laughed at me, so I threw the shades back on. Chris had to take a double look. Oh dear, where’s my bed?

The sun was beating on the balcony. I considered a glass of cold wine, but opted instead for a custard tart and half a cup of tea! I had some form filling to do, some cruise nominations to complete, errands to run etc. By the time I had done all that, the cloud cover had come and the sun was gone. Decided I would partake in a little bit of packing, just incase the sun puts in a full days appearance tomorrow. Then it was time to investigate lunch and met up with Linda & Chris for dining in the Peninsular. Mum spotted the FitFlops on the way out of lunch and really fancies a pair. I had a woman in fits of laugher when I pointed out to mum that a pair of Fit Flops were a bit pointless to her. Christian was causing chaos at the jewellery stall, making his purchase. Im not so sure that the contribution from his two new aunties was helping. Back to the cabin and one glance at the duvet and I was in.

Pre dinner drinks in the Planet Bar again this evening and tonight we were joined by Simon and his boys, who were due to dine with Debbie, Kieran and Christian but may not have realised at the time that we came as a package lol. I was worried that a table of 10 would be difficult to obtain on the last formal nite, so poor Kieran got the job of runner for a pager. He soon returned to inform us that a table was ready and we could go now. Bit of confusion with drinks still arriving, and it would have been nice to just sit and chill for a while. Debbie Simon and the boys went ahead, while we waited for drinks, got mum back in the wheelchair, and got the lift to deck 7, walked across and then back down to deck 5. Not an easy task on a busy night I can tell you! We arrived at the restaurant a little flustered and I quickly explained to one of the F&B staff that we had been trying to get here. She knew exactly who we were, exactly who we were joining and exactly where they were sat. Oh dear, we must have made an impression over the last 12 nights. I don’t think the poor lad next to me realised what he had let himself in for and he had some very quick, swift lessons in dining etiquette. Only 89 yr olds are excused any etiquette! Simon made the mistake of telling me he worked for Virgin Media, oh deary me did I go off on one (well he did ask) we had received the most appalling customer service from Virgin Media since our house move, and he did ask for my comment, so he got them! Sorry Simon!

Christian tried to prepare the other lads at the table for the fact that all after dinner chocolates go to Mum. They were not impressed, and indeed refused to belive that it could be so. I showed them mums empty black evening bag, prepped and ready for a new delivery of after dinner delicacys. Fully lined with clean tissues. Sure enough two plates of handmade chocolate truffles arrived. Mums daggers were in her eyes. The plate infront of her was hers! The plate at the other end of the table was offered up by Christian, and they glided effortlessly into Mums black beaded evening bag. Mums mission was complete and it was signalled that she wished to leave the table!

Earlier on this evening I had called by reception and swapped my disembarkation passes for the early ones. Just after I left the cabin, after putting mum to bed, I realised the passes were still in my evening bag and preventing them from shutting properly. So, I decided to remove said passes from my evening bag and slip them back under my cabin door, to save disturbing mum again. Only trouble was I had walked a few yards down the corridor, so the cabin door I slipped them under was not my own! What a totally stupid thing to do. I hope the occupants appreciated the benefit of the early embark passes, durr! Back to reception to explain myself. We got there eventually and the receptionist obliged with another two early passes.

My stool in Planet Bar was waiting for me. My Cosmo was perfect. The company was first class and all was well with the world. Alana nd I were on a mission tonight to dance at the ‘adult’ disco. Why oh why did we get the ents officer, on the last big night, that was the least interested in playing a few tunes for us. Clearly the adult disco is an after thought. The teens get the DJ, adults get an ents officer with a laptop. The last couple of nights had been jumping, and clearly there was a lot in planet bar this evening up for a good boogie. But the room was oon half cleared. Us die hards persevered and put in a few requests, I even asked if she could turn it up a little as it wasn’t quite as load as it had been in previous nights and could hardly be heard over by the bar. DJ informed me that the volume could not be increased. Still we danced. Alan was highly amused by the glares we got each time we approached the dance floor. Some seemed amused by the fact that the ‘woman from the bar’ actually moves! It was a late one tonight. A very late one. Of course it was already tomorrow when I signed my bill, and ‘tomorrow’ was not a good day. I needed my quiet moment in the wing. On reflection I probably needed a coffee, but a visit to the cafe was not on the cards. Back at the cabin, I needed to see the stars but at 4.00am I didn’t think it wise to disturb mum by opening the balcony doors, so headed instead to Prom deck. Disaster, the fog had taken the stars away. I was so upset about that and sat and cried : ( time to find ‘my teens’ they always bring me back to earth. I actually thought I had beaten them tonight and they had all gone to bed. But no, Christian and Co were spotted and even at that time of the morning Christian was a perfect young gentlemen and hugged away my tears. They were actually trying to teach the young lad, who had earlier been receiving etiquette lessons from me at the dinner table, how to hug. So Aubtie Jane was tasked with the mission. I confess he was not an easy subject. More like a bent banana, who seemed to think that toes and shoulders touching constituted a hug. He seemed horrified that a bit of chest, with a hint of thigh should be included. We were getting there so I left him to practice on someone a little closer to his own age. 4.30am is not a good time to be hitting my pillow and I know this is going to come back and bite me in a couple of hours time.

Yes, sure enough, less than two hours later Wednesday had blended in with Thursday and I was preparing ‘half a cup of tea’

Did Wednesday end and Thursday start or did they just continue though each other?

Thursday 4th August 2011 – at sea

Oh dear I’m struggling today. The sun is out and the sea is calm so all is well, but not in Janes world : ( there is also the mammoth task of packing to tackle. I need some sleep. I need some food. But a cocktail of tablets and water were the only things I could face. There was hardly a sole on deck 15 by 9.30am. all either packing or hungover? Mmm, I wonder which. Maybe they were just being sensible and having a lie in? Oh a lie in, I wonder what one of those is? I managed all of two hours in bed last nite. Mum has got it sussed. Sleeps all afternoon, wakes for dinner, and back in bed by 10.30pm. I should try it, but I don’t have the time!

I did the majority of mums packing yesterday, but today I have my two cases to unpack. Seems like a mammoth task, but it was soon done. I had been invited to lunch in sindhu but was still feeling a little more than delicate. I decided to take mum upto Breakers bar and get her some fish goujons and see how I feel. No, it still wasn’t good for me, not even after a full fat cola which always helps, but didn’t appear to be doing it for me this time.

I bumped into Linda and Chris in GlassHouse who had just ordered the tempura king prawns. Mmm, they looked as good as always, but still I couldn’t face them. I fian;ly settled on a jacket potato and baked beans from Frankies grill and sat on the balcony with a glass of water. It was good! It was really good. Now, I just needed to sort my sleep deprivation out and all would be well with the world. No chance. When I sleep, mum awakes. And when Mums awake, no chance of sleep! ‘Half a cup of tea’ was soon echoing around the cabin, so I did my duty and obliged with half a cup of tea and allowed her one of Mr C’s Lisbon custard tarts from the fridge. I retreaded to the sunshine and peace of the balcony with my last glass of wine and mesmerised myself with the sea.

We were out of the cabin early this evening, so I had time to kill before pre dinner drinks in Blue Bar. Shops is always a good diversion for mum, but I would no sooner bring her out of one of the deck 6 shops and push her across to the other shop on the other side, than she would spot the one on the opposite side and insist we looked in that one too! I was dizzy, and too tired to explain we were going from A to B and back again, so took advantage of a lift, and threw myself at a sofa in Blue Bar. My final glass of Peller Canadian Fizz was soon ordered and mum went a little mad and ordered a pineapple juice instead of her usual lemonade, small, no ice! Linda and Chris soon arrived and we were soon on the cockatils. A hush came over the entire ship when the Captain came on the address system asking for passenger assistance to give blood, so anyone of a certain blood group and carrying their donor card was asked to go to the medical centre. Apparently many responded. Linda Kieran and Christian were next to arrive. Tut tut boys, you haven’t packed yet!! Poor Debbie. Allocation of tables for dinner hasn’t been a problem for ages, but Keiran was despatched to check as usual. Shock horror it was only 10 past 8 but he was given a bleeper. We never got a table until 9.00pm tonight, and yet all around there seemed to be many tables that were empty and not made up. Infact the section that we were sat in was surrounded by empty unlaid tables so it wasn’t the best ambience for our final meal. It was a lovely meal though. I had the lemon sole and it was lovely, all except me and mum had the sirloin steak and they all declared it extremely good.

Goodbyes at the dinner table were painful tonight. I had made some lovely, lovely friends. Friends that I had looked forward to seeing each evening, and sharing some laughs and chats. Mum had been totally mesmerised by all the laughter and banter. Who would have thought that on the first formal night, we could have all sat down at Freedom dining, not knowing who we were going to get, and we just hit it off and decided we had to do it again. Such a broad age range from 16 to 89, but we could all laugh together. Christian and Kieran even learnt to accept that the after dinner chocolates were not for sharing, and did infact all belong to a certain 89 year old!

Christian and Kieran had to go to their cabin and sort that packing out! Boys I hope you sorted it?! I took mum upto her bed and headed to the Planet Bar for one final time. My emotions are all over the place still and me and Mary are up and down of the barstools like jack in the boxes. Even one of Sids Cosmo’s couldn’t sort me out. In fact I tried several combinations of beverage, including even water at one point, but still I was on another planet. Oh, ‘That woman at the Bar’ was getting some attention tonight. It gave the rest of the room something to chatter about. Mary and John have been tow other wonderful friends I had made and I truly hope to meet again. Me and Mary have laughed, been on totally the same wavelength, nattered, sampled the cocktails, assassinated a few people and met a few nutters. All seemed pretty normal to me. John is still trying to work me out I think : )

I didn’t intend to go to bed late, but it happens. For the first night this cruise I didn’t check on ‘my teens’ I had said enough ‘Goodbyes’ and was feeling as if I couldn’t handle anymore. So it was bed for me, but not before a final struggle with the last case. Thankfully I didn’t get locked out of the cabin in my nightie – can you imagine!

Friday 5th August 2012 – Southampton

I stirred in my bed just as we were coming past QE berth, then we turned and slipped into Ocean Terminal stern first. I delayed it as long as I could but finally pulled myself out of bed at 7.00am and did the last few minute bits of sorting, and got ready for breakfast. I even took the giant leap of daring to look at my onboard account. Is it me, or does anyone else understand the new format of billing. Took me ages to get my head around how much I had actually spent onboard.

I think someone had it in for me at breakfast. I don’t mind chatting at breakfast, but I prefer a quiet time if I’m honest. I was allocated a table of carers and octogenarians. Carers were talking over the old folk like they didn’t exist and swapping stories of their antics. I had to walk away from my cornflakes and leave them to it. Went back to mum when she had finished her bacon and egg and wheeled her out of there.

I was enroute to the cabin, to collect some bags etc, but as we entered Brodies (the allocated room for wheelchair assistance) a wheelchair attendant advised me to go and book in with the lady with the clipboard. Yes, it was a fully fledged ‘clipboard woman’ she had clip board so that made her in charge. I booked mum in, ‘what colour disembarkation card?’ White. ‘Well where is it?’ in my bag in the cabin. ‘I need to see it’ ITS WHITE!!!. I decided to leave mum in the room and I would collect the bags. Straight away she wrote a comment next to mums name and refused to allocate a wheelchair pusher. I went upto the cabin for the bags, said my goodbye to the fantastic cabin steward Minguel, and was back down in the lift in a jiffy. By which time clipboard woman had allocated all wheelchair pushers to someone else, including those holding later disembarkation cards then ourselves. I was not amused! Despite mum being left in Brodies she had been dismissed and ignored.

Disembarkation was from deck 6 rather than deck 5, and it worked a lot better than via deck 5 atrium. Usually wheelchairs meet in Meridian restaurant and then cant get out because of congestion in the atrium. Once we were in the baggage hall the porter and wheelchair pusher worked together to locate the bags for me. That was soon achieved and we were soon outside, over to CPS for the keys and being helped into the car and the bags and wheelchair loaded for me. I wish one of them would have gone the extra mile and offered to drive me home. 9 mins past 9 and I was driving away from Azura, very sad to see her behind me, but hopefully she will be infront of me again soon!

In summary – Internet, that has to be the biggest bone of contention of the cruise. Pay per MB was only a trial, for a few cruises I believe, but it didn’t work for me. I have to use the internet whilst Im away, for business not social reasons. I felt restricted in what I could and couldnt do on the internet, basically because I had no idea which applications ate up the MB’s quickly and which used hardly any. But there were two members of the ships company which honestly did go the extra mile for me and shine. Blake, IT Media Manager, and Ancy Librarian Internet Manager, were both absolute stars. They understood my problems and barriers that I faced with the internet. They took the time to explain, in simple terms, what a MB was, how the internet was working etc. They both worked with me to make best usage of my internet and ensure that I was using it as efficiently as I could. They both delivered first class customer service to me, and always took the time to keep upto date with me. I didn’t just disappear back into the mass of passengers once my initial feelings re the internet had calmed down. They did everything they could to make sure the stupid internet didn’t impact on the overall enjoyment of my cruise. A credit to P&O both of them!

Food – No complaints from me about the food. On the whole it was nicely presented, always hot enough, and for me came with enough vegetables’ etc. Side vegetables’ and potatoes were served with the main meal, but personally there were always enough on the plate. And yet, yes, I did hear whingers around me stating that there wasn’t a big enough choice of vegetables or potatoes, and ‘its not like it used to be’. The thing is the extras were there if you wanted them. I did have the one cold meal served, which wasn’t dealt with at the time the way it should have been. But I know it was dealt with the following day. We ate quite a few times in the main restaurant for lunch which was always pleasant and gave a more relaxed atmosphere. I try not to frequent the self serve buffet venues on any ship. Way too much hassle for me. Frankies Grill was working to full capacity given the amount of teens onboard. Time it wrong and the queue was long, but P&O dealt with that by putting more chefs on the grill and had a team constantly preparing burgers etc at peak times, so any queues were quickly dealt with.

Lovely canapes pre dinner in Planet and Blue Bar, plus the bowl of nibbles, that came with the first round of drinks. Not that I was ever hungry enough to need them, but once they are infront of you, you just cant help it.

Dress Code – Something wasn’t right this cruise. Whether it was the passenger profile or the new wording of the three dress code types I don’t know? Personally, I prefer the ‘Formal’ ‘informal’ and ‘elegant casual’ status. The wording was too loose in the Horizon. Even I had to look twice at the definition of ‘smart’ Some nights it was Smart casual, no jacket required. Other nights ‘smart’ was no jacket required. The no jacket or jacket then determined what the ladies dress code was supposed to be. For that I will choose to make no comment! The days of cocktail dresses seemed long gone. Some made the effort, many did not. It always amused me that the ‘fashion police’ chose to make an announcement before 6.00pm on ‘jackets required’ evenings to emphasise the level of dress code required. They went to some lengths to specify that if gents were without a jacket they would not be able to dine in Oriental, Peninsular or Meridian. And yet, I saw many gents in Meridian enter without a jacket. If P&O are going to make the statement that they will maintain the dress code for the evening they should stand by what they say. As I say, I prefer the wording to be ‘elegant casual’ some take the ‘casual’ element way to literally. Informal/cocktail wear needs bringing back. Shops are flooded with a wide range of cocktail and party wear so no excuse for not adhering.

Peak season cruising – this would never be my first choice and I do still prefer to cruise at the quieter shoulder seasons. The ship did feel busier in places, such as around the pool and certain bars during the evening. But having said that, they were all places that I could easily avoid. I didn’t go on deck that much during sea days, but when I did I had no problems getting a sun lounger in the locations that I preferred. And for those that were able to get to the less accessible spots of deck 19 etc there were loads of sunbeds to be had. There were a lot of children onboard and it was nice to see families enjoying themselves. Some family groups spread over several generations. The teens were an absolute joy. Some of the nicest and politest young people I have ever met. They often stepped out of busy lifts for me to allow me to enter with the wheelchair, held doors, assisted when I was struggling with wheelchair manoeuvres both ashore and onboard ship. They always looked smart and dressed to the dress code of the evening. ‘Sunbed police’ made announcements on sea days and were stationed across the open decks to ensure that sunbeds were not reserved etc. It did seem to work well and deterred people from coming out and selecting chairs before going off to breakfast or back to bed etc.

Film Crew – there was a film crew onboard. Im not sure if they were making a promotional video or a crew training video. I need to apologise to the film crew that were filming in Galsshouse one morning towards the end of the cruise. I walked through innocently to get to the forward stairs and was stopped at the port side forward, by a film crew mid shoot. I did think it a little stupid that they hadn’t placed a warning or no entry sign, but I stopped and waited for them to finish so I could pass. As I looked around, wondering if it would be quicker for me to back track and go the other way, a cheery waiter waved from the other side of the bar and called out ‘Morning Mrs Chadwick’ well, I responded didn’t I!! Let’s just say that producer and cameraman were not amused!!! Like I say, Mr Producer, try closing off the area next time!

A useless observation – did you know that the voice in the lift changes from female to male once you get to deck 14!

For me, it was yet another excellent P&O Cruise. The crew were at their best, service was spot on. Entertainment was there if I wanted it. Miguel our cabin steward was amongst the best, and for us Freedom Dining worked well. I have no complaints, not even about the internet, because my issues were dealt with proffessionally by Blake and Ancy. My only gripe would be the dress code, but I will just continue to be old school and wear what I feel appropriate.

To all the lovely people I met during this cruise – Thank You! Linda & Chris, Christian, Kieran and Debbie – excellent table mates. Dining was a pleasure and a real treat every evening. We have to do it again some time! Mary & John, oh how I miss my nights in the Planet Bar. Thank you for all the laughs. ‘Random people’ you don’t know who you are but we do : ) Alan, I still have Lady GaGa whirring round in my head, and for that I blame you! As for ‘the woman at the bar’ no doubt she will be back!!

To view the full set pf photographs from Azura A117 22nd July – 5th August Mediterranean CLICK HERE

So, the new hotel on the block is Premier Inn Southampton West Quay, opened earlier this summer and is ideally situated for the West Quay shopping and of course the docks and cruise ships.

Parking for Premier Inn West Quay is at the multi-storey West Quay shopping centre at the subsidised rate of £5 for 23hrs when you get the car park ticket validated at the hotel before checking out. There is a very convenient drop off area at the back of the hotel, which allows you to pull up, unload the car, take any luggage to your room before parking the car at West Quay. Likewise you can pull the car round and load back up with luggage at the end of your stay before the short journey down to your awaiting ship. If you are arriving by train or coach into the bus station, it is only a 5 or 10 minute walk to the hotel, providing of course that you travel light and can manage your luggage. A taxi from Premier Inn to the docks would be somewhere in the region of £5.

Check in at Premier Inn West Quay is self service via the kiosks. Input your reservation number, your key card is issued and you are ready to enjoy your stay. All the time I was there, there was a member of staff on hand to assist with check in. A good security feature is that the room key card has to be swiped in the lift to gain access to the floors. My room was on the second floor and looked across the car park towards the DeVere. I couldnt see the sea but I felt close enough so that was good enough for me. The room itself was more than adequate and very comfortable. Modern fitted bathroom with deep bath and powerful shower above. Good lighting around the mirror etc. Fitted open wardrobe area with hanging space, long mirror, tea and coffee making facilities, shelving and drawer space. Dressing table/desk with phone, hairdryer, WiFi etc. Very comfortable double bed and duvet. I usually have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but I was out like a light in that one! Very snugly!! Bedside tables and lighting to either side. Below the bed was a pull out 3rd bed and the sofa below the window also converted to a bed. So, some rooms do sleep 4, but I later learnt that it is a maximum of two adults and two children per room. Rooms are not suitable for more than 2 adults.

The room was air-conditioned too, which some of the higher graded hotels cant boast. I was a little worried about being on the second floor and maybe suffering noise from the road leading round to West Quay Shopping centre, but I needn’t have worried and traffic didnt cause me any disturbance.

The restaurant and bar are situated on the ground floor and are decorated to offer very comfortable and relaxing surroundings. Thyme Restaurant had a very extensive menu, with really reasonable prices. For a pre cruise night I wouldn’t bother to go out in search of another restaurant and would happily dine in and relax. I did have breakfast the following morning and I was more than impressed. Its the usual help yourself buffet style, but it was extremely well presented and all seemed fresh and hot. I didnt partake in the full cooked English breakfast as tempting as it looked. There was a good choice of breakfast cereals, fruits and pastrys. The toasting machine churned out perfect toast. The croissants were warm and fresh, so good I had a second one! Costa coffee is also included in the cost of breakfast and you can help yourself to as much as you can drink during breakfast hours. Waiting staff in the restaurant were always on hand, and kept tables tidy between courses.

The bar was slightly sectioned off from the main restaurant and had separate seating area. But those enjoying and evening meal didnt seemed rushed to be moved from the dining area. The decor throughout made for very comfortable surroundings. Even the ladies cloakroom surprised me – very boutique chic!

I have seen flexible rates for this hotel as low as £39 per room, and Premier Saver rates as low as £29 per room. Prices do rise with availability but even at peak prices they are considerably less than most other Southampton hotels and, in my opinion, they do have a lot more to offer at West Quay Premier Inn! My recent stay has completely changed my perception of Premier Inn. About 10 years ago I used to stay at Premier Inns a lot, but the the new wave of Premier Inn has moved on a lot since then. I know where my first port of call will be for my pre cruise stays in the future!

To view my photos of the Premier Inn West Quay CLICK HERE

The Piazza Atrium did not disappoint. Obviously the Hub of the ship and by the time I was ready to disembark, later in the afternoon, it was already buzzing.

International Cafe served coffees and teas and a range of savoury and sweet snacks.

Bar Piazza next door offered a relaxing place for a pre dinner drink and people watching.

On the opposite side of the Atrium Alfredo’s Pizzeria was a new addition in the refit and served full pizzas to order.

Next door Vines Wine Bar had an extensive wine list, and was again another new addition in the refit.

One deck up was the usual selection of onboard shops. Beyond the Passenger Services desk was the Casino and beyond that the lower level of the theatre. I later kicked myself for forgetting to check out the new addition of non balcony suites to the starboard side of the Casino.

Up a further deck and more shops, but on the starboard side of the upper atrium was Crooners Lounge and Bar. Very art deco style and feel to it and again a great people watching spot.

Moving forward, Leaves Tea Lounge and Library. A wide selection of books and an impressive choice of teas.

Crown Grill is one of the speciality dining options offered onboard Grand Princess, and I will tell more about that later because that is where I ate lunch. the Upper level of the theatre was beyond Crown Grill and the shore excursion desk, and like all of the ships in this class of design, offered very good site lines to the stage.

Moving back towards midship and aft of Crooners takes you into Explorers Lounge. It did feel a little dark in here, which I guess would be classed as intimate later at night, and as the name suggests had a bit of a jungle theme going on. There was a stage for live music and a dance floor, albeit a fairly small dance floor.

Next door was the WheelHouse Bar, which again struck me as being very dark? Maybe the lights were turned off, lol. Its a sort of a cross between a pub lounge and a country club feel, live music and a small dance floor.

Sabatini’s was next door. A little more light and airy serving Italian themed menu.

The photo Gallery took up its usual spot that is familiar on these Grand Class ship, along the corridor leading out to the Vista Lounge at the aft. This was very much more of a function room with set seating in rows all facing the stage in the corner. The room is used for daytime lectures and late night cabarets etc

Upto deck 14 the Horizon Court buffet dining area had had a bit of a rethink and the serving area had been opened up a little to try and calm the bottle necking that can happen as people go back into collect desert etc. instead the deserts are now served from glass displays across from the main serving area.

Calypso Reef and Pool has the retractable roof so offers the beuty of both worlds and can be opened up on warmer days, but still offers a covered place to swim and relax when the weather is a little more inclement weather.

Through to the Neptunes Pool which has no roof but does boast the Movies under the Stars above the pool, with the SeaBreeze bar opposite.

Forward of the stairs is the usual Spa and Fitness centre and the Youth and Teens Centres, which is split over three age groups.

Above the Spa is The Sanctuary which is only available to those that purchase a pass, either on a daily basis or for the duration of the cruise. Daily numbers are controlled so that there is enough space and choice of sunloungers etc for all that choose to use it. Light meals and refreshments are served as part of the package and Spa treatments in the Cabanas are extra. The Lap pool is for the exclusive use to those using the Sanctuary. Comfortable sun beds with deep mattresses in both the shade and open deck.

At the aft of deck 15 is Hearts and Minds Wedding Chapel, and the brand new One5 Lounge and Nightclub. A very sophisticated nightclub and lounge and the smell of the soft cream leather reminded me that it was brand new addition to the ship. Some people might have been disappointed to see the travelator and suspended nightclub removed, but this more than makes up for its loss. A really well thought out design, with lots of seating and a lovely bar area, moving around to the slightly elevated dance floor area, with surrounding seating. Outside Rattan sofas and chairs were tucked underneath the overhang from the deck above and offered u interrupted views across the new stern. The horse show shaped decks overlooked the Terrace pool below which was no longer shaded by the monstrosity that hung above it for so long.

I got to see most of the different stateroom grades from Suites down to insides, although I did miss those seven new WS grade Suites on Fiesta deck at 341 sq ft per suite. They are suites but dont have a balcony, so a little bit of a strange addition, given that I would have thought suite passengers would have come to expect their own outside space. There didnt appear to be any major refurb to the staterooms other than the pastel coloured bed covers had gone and had been replaced by the crisp white linen duvets etc.

Lunch was served in the Crown Grill – Premium Seafood and Chop House. We had a set menu but I did take time to look at the evening menu and it was extensive.

Black Tiger Prawn and Papaya Salpicon . Mustard Seed Aioli

Shrimp & Pancetta Bisque

The Grill Salad with Grape-Balsamic Dressing

Pan Roasted Barramundi Filet, or, Duet of Sterling Silver Medallions pepper crusted beef and five spice tenderloin.

Seven Layer S’Mores Stack

The wine was free flowing – which was tempting, but I had to drive home so I declined after the first half glass.

By the time we left lunch the Atrium area was buzzing with passengers already settling in for their next cruise. Musicians were playing at the foot of the Atrium. Passengers were settling in with a coffee and a pastry, or a welcome onboard drink in one of the many bars. Passengers were already at the Guest Relations desk keen to sort out their little queries and questions.

All in all, the ship had a great feel to it. Seeing it empty isn’t always the best way to see a ship. A ship is never alive until it is full of passengers that add that extra little buzz to it. Sometimes I did look down at the decking or outside stairs and it reminded me that this was not the brand new ship that she appeared to be in places. She was of course launched as one of the original Grand Class designs in 1998, and now she is bang upto date with her newer sisters in the fleet.

Grand Princess offers a range of cruises out of Southampton during the summer season from 3 to 17 nights before relocating back to Caribbean sailings during the winter months.

To view the full set of photos taken onboard Grand Princess CLICK HERE

There was an Eavesway coach up ahead and he clearly knew something we didn’t, he started edging across to the slip road. We decided to take a gamble and follow him. I thought he was going to divert to the M1, but no, off we set down country lanes and through a couple of quaint villages, and before we knew it we were on the A34. Phew! Thanks nice Eavesway coach driver. What a reliable service.

We arrived at Southampton at 1.30pm. No queuing traffic and straight through dock gate 10 to the Mayflower Terminal. Adonia was tiny and you could just see her funnel above the terminal building. But we couldn’t wait to see what she was like inside.

Check in was fast and efficient and we were through the security checks and seated in the waiting area in no time. Boarding commenced at 2.15pm so we didn’t have much of a wait to get onboard.

We boarded via the air bridge onto the Prom deck , which was wide, but obviously not long!

We were allocated a J grade balcony stateroom, A40, on deck 8. They aren’t the largest of balcony cabins, but they had all the usual amenities that you would expect. Double wardrobe. Separate cupboard housing the fridge and shelving. Corner unit housing flat screen TV, with safe in a cupboard below. A large floor to ceiling mirror at the foot of the bed. Dressing table, again with large mirror above. I loved the fact that somebody had thought about the plug socket installation and located one upside down so that chargers etc could be plugged in, despite the fact that that they were really close to the dressing table surface. There were also continental plug sockets. Cupboards below housing tiny drawers – ideal for nic nacs but not much else and some shelf space. A small, but comfy two seater sofa and coffee table. Our bed was made up as a double and I hadnt got the heart to ask the cabin steward to change it to twins, but I later discovered the mattress was hard, and didn’t aid the best nights sleep for me.

The bathroom was compact, with a strange cut off oblong shape shower and sink unit. The bathroom looked to have been totally refurbished, but the cabin was a little tired looking in places.

So, off for a tour of the ship.

First stop was the Himalaya Suite on B deck, aft port side corner. One of the nicest suites I have seen for a long time, spacious and comfortable with zoned areas for dining, seating, and sleeping. Nice lounge type area , comfy sofa, large flat screen TV and stereo system. I loved the bedroom area with large canopied bed set on an angle. Huge dressing area with masses of floor to ceiling wardrobes. Marble bathroom with whirlpool bath, shower and vanity unit. There was also a separate guest cloakroom. Massive, deep corner balcony with steamer chairs and table and chairs. The suites have almost half the aft of the ship, with only two other balcony cabins in between. Suite lovers will love these AA grade suites.

Prom Deck – Raffles is at the top of the Grand staircase, rich red colour theme and grand piano for light cocktail music.

Mayfair shops – A really good range of onboard shops given the size of Adonia. Jewellery shop, and a larger gift shop, logo shop, boutique type shop. There was also a small Emporium selling every day essentials.

Anderson – The iconic marble top table and flower arrangement, with picture above, greeted you on the entrance to Anderson. Beyond it I fully expected to find Geoff, of Andersons fame, behind the bar. It could have been the entrance to Andersons on Aurora or Oriana – fab touch! Andersons was a large walk through type lounge, with the photo Gallery to the starboard side. Andersons had been zoned into lots of very comfy looking seating areas. A long bar, ran along the centre of the room, with plenty of seating at the bar.

The Curzon Lounge. This was like a cross between Harlequins, Pacific lounge and Carmens and is the main show lounge and cabaret room. Slightly sunken bar runs along the back wall, similar position to Carmens. Beautiful inlaid dance floor and excellent viewing from across the room toward the stage.

Raffles – Main bar area is located just at the entrance to the Pacific Restaurant, but extends out to above the Grand Staircase. Very cosy country house feel.

Pacific Restaurant – Light and airy yet cosy and warm. Light was flooding in the panoramic windows, but the elegant setting and plush, high backed armchair seating made made it feel very intimate.

Ocean Grill on deck 10. This is the Marco Pierre White inspired restaurant. Views to the aft and starboard side. A more select and intimate dining experience. A cover charge applies.

Sorrento is the mirror image on port side, but in softer, more subtle shades. As the name would suggest serves Italian themed menu.

Library is large and offers a relaxing place to sit and read. Plenty of seating and nice sofas around the fireplace.

Outside on deck 10 its 14 and a half laps = 1 mile. I think I would loose count after two or be dizzy by lap three!

Crows Nest is exactly where you would expect it to be at the forward end. Again there seemed to be lots of different zoned seating areas. A small stage for a band and small dance floor. Really nice bar area. I think this would be the late night place to gravitate to of an evening.

One deck below is the Oasis spa. Well equipped gym with a good range of fitness equipment. A very nice outdoor retreat type area overlooking the bow of the ship. Perfect sun trap and a raised Jacuzzi area.

Salon was small but adequate.

Midships on deck 10 is the main pool area. Plenty of open deck space that I wouldn’t imagine would be over crowded with a full complement of passengers.

Lido Cafe serves grills and burgers etc.

The Conservatory self service buffet dining runs along both sides of the ship and a cross the aft. The main serving areas both running across the aft. Rattan bamboo furniture and soft greens, again give the area light and airy but comfortable feel. Nice sheltered seating area on the open deck at the aft for alfresco dining.

The Pursers desk and shore excursion desk are down on D deck at the foot of the Grand Staircase. Im sure that the staircase will be the back drop of many onboard photos.

So, the main reason for being onboard was for the Naming of Adonia by Dame Shirley Bassey. At 3.15pm we made our way back upto Lido Deck, ready for the 3.30pm ceremony. The sun was glorious and beating down on us. Balfour champagne was quickly offered and our glasses kept constantly topped up. Delicate sandwiches and dainty cakes were beautifully presented on silver cake stands, and stunning flower arrangements adorned the decks. We mingled and chatted. I had to have my photo taken with Olly Smith because I think he’s fab, plus I love the Canadian Ice Fizz that he recommended in Azuras Glasshouse. We had the perfect vantage point of a view of the stage and met some lovely people to chat to.

Carol Marlow, Managing director of P&O Cruises, gave the Welcome speech but was interrupted towards the end by a ‘heckler’ behind us. He then burst into song and was joined by a female dancer and singer. They tapped dance and sang, which seemed a little bit random, but it added to the fun.

Hugh Bonneville was Master of Ceremonies and he spoke of the classical myth of the goddess Venus, her young lover Adonis, and the festival of Adonia. ‘When Adonis died, Venus beat her breast, weeping over the loss of her beloved,’ he said.

‘It is said a two-day festival of Adonia was begun in honour of his passing. ‘On the first day all was toil, wailing and tribulation. On the second, joy, celebration and rebirth. Well, the toil of preparing this splendid vessel is over. Today we celebrate her rebirth as she begins her new life on the high seas.’

Dame Shirley Bassey was escorted to the stage by Commodore Steve Burgoine and she clearly loved being Godmother to Adonia. Shirley was keen to Welcome us all to ‘her ship’

A magnum of Balfour was suspended on a zip wire, running from the mast to the waiting diamond above the stage. Dame Shirley pressed her majic Diamond button, the magnum was released and glided along to smash against the ship. Silver confetti glistened and shimmered as it flurried across the open decks and showered us all. A fantastic moment that was shared by all invited guests and the ships company and crew that lined the upper decks. How lovely to see the crew be able to be part of this wonderful event. Well it called for another glass of fizz as we stood and soaked up a few more rays.

A few Celebritys were around and Lizy was keen to get her photo taken with Olympic Gold Medalist Mark Foster. He was very nice and obliged with a photograph. Andrea Mclean looked stunning, so stunning that I didn’t recognise her. Sorry Andrea!

Time for a quick cup of tea and a cup cake in the Conservatory and it was time to change for the formal evening onboard.

For once we were on time and we arrived at the Curzon Lounge for some more of that lovely Balfour fizz. Canapes were constantly being offered as was a top up of the glass! The hour soon passed and we were being invited to attend dinner in the Pacific Restaurant. Dame Shirley was escorted into dinner by Commodore Bergoine and all guests stood as she made her entrance. A beautifully presented meal with flowing red or white wine, and some very interesting fudge and truffles. After dinner speeches were made my David Dingle and the Transport Minister.

We didnt want to miss any of the fireworks and celebrations outside so we made our way back to the cabin to collect our wraps and head back upto Lido deck. As we walked out onto the deck we were greeted with cadets laden with wicker baskets of pashminas, which I thought was a lovely touch, We were soon approached by a waiter and offered brandy or Drambuie, then more chocolates and truffles started to appear. We were entertained by Incognito on the stage. Then the Shirley Basic music filled the decks again and Dame Shirley was escorted to the stage. She approached the lecturn, we thought to speak but she belted out a song and the more we clapped the more she sang. Note perfect and completely unaccompanied. She confessed afterwards that she didn’t mean to do that! But we appreciated the fact that she did. Being Godmother to Adonia clearly made her very happy. Dame Shirley introduced the fireworks and we were treated to a superb display from across the water. The sky above Adonia was bursting with colour.

Back down to Curzon Lounge for the other evening entertainment with the Overertones. Lizy had never heard of them, clearly she doesn’t watch enough daytime TV, but she was very impressed and they now have another new fan. It took a while but they soon had people up and dancing.

The evening continued until the early hours up in the Crows Nest with live music and late night DJ.

I think Adonia is a stunning little ship. She offers a more exclusive sophistication and traditional elegance to the P&O fleet. She is small but she has so much to offer. To me she felt equally as big as Aurora, but with less passengers onboard. Obviously she isn’t as big as Aurora, but the choice of bars and lounges was still there. I think she will become a firm favorite among those that like the smaller ship feel and those that like the more traditional element of a P&O Cruise. She is the pathfinder ship, so has some amazing itineraries and can offer different ports of call, but I think the real attraction will be her traditionalness that loyal P&O fans appreciate.

I didn’t think I was a lover of the more modern approach to Naming Ceremonies, preferring instead the pomp and circumstance of a tradition dockside naming celebration, with marching bands and Royalty. But P&O executed this Naming Ceremony beautifully. I was very, very honored to be invited, and it was greatly appreciated. We had a fantastic time and loved every moment of our time onboard. I will treasure my Adonia Diamond forever!

You can view all of the photographs that I have taken onboard Adonia Adonia Naming Cermony

We took over 2000 photos but I have scaled it down to 700 – you still need to have a spare hour or so to get through them all : )

Ports of call were

Barbados – Happy times at Mullins Beach

St Lucia – A chilled out day including lunch in The Glass House

Grenada – Grande Anse Beach being seranaded by Singing guitar Man

Dominica – Sheltering from the rain in Coco Rico (thats our excuse)

St Maarten – The new ships ‘car park’ of the Caribbean

St Kitts – The Retreat and an day onbaord Azura

Tortola – Cane Garden Bay, Pussers Bar and Painkillers. what a perfect combination!

Curacao – Pretty coloured buildings

Aruba – Azura & Ventura together, plus beaches, bars and shopping

Barbados – Deserted thanks to a National Holiday, a trip to the beach, and some extra time onboard

Plus of course all the days and nights at sea!

Enjoy!

I love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment on here

If you hadn’t already gathered it from reading my blogs of the cruise, it really was an excellent Caribbean cruise. The best to date for sure! We had the best of times and shared it with some fantastic company. The laughs were too many to mention. But…. you had to be there!

Ive realised since writing this that I never mentioned about the man that nearly missed the ship in St Lucia.Captain Paul was not a happy bunny, and quite rightly so. The ships company had already made final checks, and the ship had been cleared to depart. Gangways were in and watertight doors closed. But then a man walked onto the dockside from the now closed duty free area and was faced with a ship about to sail. As you can imagine there was a fair bit of cheering from on looking passengers already onboard.  Captain Paul soon advised us that our departure time was very very tight this evening as we had to fit in with aircraft arrival and departures on the runway very close by. Clearly we couldn’t be in its flight path when one needed to take off or land. So a late passenger was not too well received because getting the ship secured again, and water tight doors opened, was going to take time. As the man concerned was able bodied and able to do so, we were advised that he would be put into the pilot boat and bought to the ships side once we had cleared the dockside. Clearly the man concerned was very embarrassed as he boarded the pilot boat and sat with his back to the ships side for the duration of the whole procedure. By now 90% of the starboard side was hanging over their balconys, plus a lot more beside on prom and sun decks. He never looked up once! Nor did he look up when he was bought alongside the ship to climb back in. I don’t know if this involved a rope ladder or whether he was simply able to climb back via a watertight door. I did wonder if Captain Paul had words, but I doubt the passenger concerned will ever do it again. Needless to say, nobody was late back to the ship in any of the other ports!

As you have probably gathered The Retreat was a disappointment for me. I was so looking forward to my day in there and it didn’t live upto my expectations. I have since spoken to others that had very similar experiences to us, and I have read reviews that also mention the same. It’s such a shame as I had received really good feedback from many of my clients, hence why I wanted to experience it for myself. I can only put it down to poor spa management during our cruise? Poor customer service really rattles me and the fact that the Spa manager never got in touch with me after my discreet comments to the reception staff, rattled me more than the experience itself! Next time I am onboard Azura I hope to give it a second try.

The GlassHouse is one of my favourite venues on the ship. Loved the food, and the fact that it offered a good alternative dining option during the day and the evening. I like the fact that it explained all the wines in a really simplistic way, in a language that I could understand instead of all that flowered up nonsense that usually describes a wine. I wasn’t so impressed that they ran out of so many of the more popular ones though. I have never really known that on a ship. Clearly it is a very, very popular venue, both during the day and the evening, and I am fairly confident that there will be a Glass House onboard Ventura in the near future!

The two ships, Azura and Ventura,  do have their physical differences. Some of them quite obvious, and some of them very subtle. The most obvious ones being the Seascreen and Glass House. The sea screen seemed an odd place to me. Always popular during the day with every sunlounger taken, but not that many people appeared to be there for the film – until you dared to pause and stand infront of one of them for more than a nano second and then the gust of ‘tuts’ was often enough to blow you over the rails into the pool! I did wonder if people preferred to be there because the sunloungers had mattresses on?  Whatever the reason, it was popular place to sunbathe so get there early if you want a lounger.  Its not for me to extol the benefits of a movie being played while at sea or in port, because I don’t watch films and wouldn’t even have the TV on in the cabin if it weren’t for Mr C. The noise from it didnt seem to travel and I cant say that I ever heard it from the neighbouring coral pool area.

I heard nothing but praise for Seventeen, but we didn’t dine in there during the evening, so again thats another one for next time!

Sindhu – didn’t seem to have the buzz of East and I would have liked to have seen a daily special like they do in East on Ventura. Having said that we had a great night in Sindhu and would go back. The waitresses were all charming and explained the courses etc. The bar area was used more because it was more open to the main walkway of Prom deck, and again I think that East on Ventura will eventually be remodelled to be opened up in a similar sort of way. It was a great people watching bar, which will always be a pastime of mine!

Brodies was really popular, and I spent more time in there than I would have imagined. It was lively until late most evenings and one of our favourite bartenders was in there too, so that will always be a draw. It was clearly more popular than Manhattan which never seemed to have anyone in on the nights we investigated.

Planet Bar just seemed a bit lifeless this time around and I felt the decision to make it a quiet bar was not the best use of this lovely room. We never found it very popular until the end of the cruise when a lot of passengers seemed to go and investigate what they had missed out on.

Malabar always seemed popular and I don’t think we walked through there, pre or post dinner, to find it anything but busy. Cabaret, dancing and piano recitals seemed to be the main mix of entertainment.

It was really nice to walk through the top of the Atrium most nights and look down to see passengers enjoying the dance floor, which is another new addition to Azura. This always added to the atmosphere as it filtered up through the atrium.

I did t use the theatre. We stuck our heads in on occasion, but sitting still and being quiet will always send me to sleep after a meal and some wine, so we stayed out of there.

The deck parties and sailaway parties were excellent. I dont think I have seen a Tropical party so well attended in years! The sailaway parties were fab and full of dancing and singing, but if its not your cup of tea there are more than enough quiet areas to retreat to.

In general, Azura did ‘feel’ very much like the Ventura. I didn’t feel the ‘elegance’ or ‘Aurora’ feel that so many speak about. I put this down to the fact that Azura was in the Caribbean for fly cruises. For me it ‘felt’ no different to the fly cruises I have experienced on the Ventura the last couple of years. Im sure that when she returns to her Southampton cruises the elegance ambiance will return, and hopefully I will be back onboard to experience it.

The ports – well I’m just happy if the sun is shining in the mornings, and never really select a cruise for the actual ports of call. I might pick on destination in general or timing etc. It was overcast in St Lucia and the liquid sunshine was a bit heavy early on in Barbados and Grenada, but it was soon gone and forgotten. According the ships log the temperature was frequently recorded as 29 degs, but it felt much much hotter than that some days on the beach. Thank goodness for the Caribbean sea, and the rum punch!

 The flight delays were unfortunate. I have clients on P&O departures every Friday and Saturday, and it is rare to have flight delays for anything other than the weather. Yes, I was disappointed when I first heard about the delay, like I said, I became my own worst client! I wanted my holiday to start when it should have started. But in reality it made no difference at all to our cruise. We arrived at silly o’clock on Saturday morning, instead of early afternoon on the Friday. But I think it helped me slip into the new time zone much quicker and I didn’t feel anywhere near as shattered as I usually do during the Saturday in Barbados. P&O did all they could to ensure we got out to join the ship and looked after us for the inconvenience.  I will never forget how welcoming our cabin looked as we opened the cabin door that morning. It was so cool and inviting. Everything was pristine. Fresh sandwiches, water, wine, a welcome onboard note on the bed, and a letter explaining what P&O intended to do for us. I was instantly relaxed and more than happy to sit on the balcony and be thankful that I was there.

P&O charter flight do make it simplicity itself, with flights from regional airports, no baggage reclaim at the other end and coaches waiting to take you from the aircraft steps directly to the ships side in Bridgetown.  Im not a lover of flying, but I can just about survive the eight and half hours in the sky knowing what will be at the other end.

Azura is a fabulous ship, with something for all age groups. P&O has an uniqueness that I never seem to experience on any other cruise line. I feel welcome. I feel like I belong. I feel like we and the passengers around us are the only ones to have ever set foot up the gangway. Its our ‘home’ for the duration of the cruise, not a just a floating resort or holiday destination. This contributes to a relaxed atmosphere and a great time onboard. I need to return to Azura sometime soon to try all the venues etc that we simply never found time for this time around.

So yes, all in all, a fabulous cruise, on a fabulous ship. One that I can highly recommend!

Wednesday 19^th January 2011 – at sea

 Its a bit breezy on the open decks today and that has bought a lot of people inside the ship so everywhere is a little busy as we wander around after breakfast. They were setting up the equivalent of Azura’s A Factor in the top and bottom of the Atrium. We hung around for a little while and watched the cabin stewardess making beds and various towel animals. Mr C, being a firefighter, was rather interested in the fire fighting equipment but i could tell that some of his questions were a bit beyond the poor cadet put in charge of that section at the time as he kept suggesting Mr C might be interested to move along and learn about the bridge equipment, lol. We wandered in and out the various shops, but didn’t buy anything. I spent a fair bit of time people watching looking down into the Atrium and friends were spotted! It was decided we should try one of the new, much talked about Costa coffees in Java, but getting a seat wasn’t to easy. At one time we were tow to a seat until my eagle eyes spotted a couple more becoming vacant. I had the mocha with whipped cream and a flake, but it seemed to be lacking said toppings! Waiter did manage to produce a flake though and as that was the main bit I was after I let him off. Once the A Factor (or whatever it was) was declared at an end I was amazed how quickly it was all packed away and dismantled and in no time at all it was as if it never happened. A little army of crew appeared from nowhere. Each new their duty, and equipment, table cloths, tables , beds, chairs were all gone in an instant. Before you knew it it looked as if nothing had ever happened in the Atrium.

Back up in the cabin the sun was blazing on the balcony and the breeze could not be felt. Mr C was out there like a flash, but some of us had work to do! At one point we decided to have lunch on the balcony and fetch a bottle of Canadian Fizz up from The Glasshouse, but we soon decided to be civilised and go to the GlassHouse for lunch. Not my best experience of the GlassHouse this cruise. Clearly a lot of other passengers, and crew, had decided to do the same thing at the same time. We found a seat and eventually a waiter came to advise that he couldn’t take any food orders for 10 minutes as the galley was busy, but he could take drinks order and would be back for food orders shortly. Canadian fizz was ordered only to be told that it was now all sold out! He then reeled off another 4 or 5 wines that I couldn’t have, due to them being sold out! Oh dear : ( Another wine was decided upon and we sat back and waited until we could order lunch. But my idea of 10 minutes was clearly not the same as Glasshouse 10 mins. It was some 35 mins before we could catch the waiters eye again, only to be told that the galley was still not taking any new orders. We did get our lunch eventually, but you have been warned – it does get very busy on sea days, especially when the weather outside is not ideal. So plan your timings outside peak meal times. Mr C had the Bison Burger, which he had been meaning to try all cruise and he said it didn’t disappoint.

Back up on the balcony the sun was glorious and I thought the whole ship was bathed in it, but apparently it was still windy up on top decks. I pottered between balcony and laptop doing a bit of work and not a lot else.

Formal night tonight and Portunus Party in Manhattan. But before that its drinks in Blue Bar with lots of frock watching opportunities. Garden Martinis, salmon canapés, and a pot of nibbles. All very civilised. Then its onto the Portunus party at the other end of deck 7. Ooh kisses from Captain Paul again, hugs from the lovely Neil, and Avalon is on hand to make sure drinks are in hand.  A new Portunus gift is won by a lady on E deck, so new that they don’t even have them onboard. Looks nice though. It was a very nice party, but we were stood by the bar which is always convenient.

Chaine des Rotisseurs Gala dinner tonight, not my favourite, but as has been said before Im not a big foodie person. I struggled to make a choice from the menu tonight and ended up with a sirion steak, but my idea of a medium steak should not mean that its still red raw on top so that was soon making its way swiftly back to the galley. It came back cremated so all in all not the best of culinary delights. I have managed to stay away from exploding coffee cups though.

After dinner we had our usual wander, and us ladies were walking about with folders full of menu’s so kindly donated by the waiters, I headed for the cabin to freshen up and put the menus away.  It want hard to track the others down and I found them in the 21^stCentury Pub night in Brodies. Oh my, how things change from the pub nights in Champions not so many moons ago. It used to be a casual night with Neil, in his pre Cruise Director days, singing “Pack up your Troubles” and ”Its a long way to Tiperrary” etc, with another favourite ents officer of mine, Simon Jason. But now its pop quizzes, karaoke, party songs, fun and games and of course the streamer throwing finale. Oh and much flag waving. It was no sooner over than the streamers were all gathered up in bundles from the floor, the bar staff rolled down their shirt sleeves and put their waistcoats and bow ties back on as if nothing had happened in there.  As the place emptied out a little bit a couple of bar stools became vacant and we could sit at the bar and have my favourite barman mix me a Cosmopolitan, just the way I like it.

Thursday 20^th January 2011 – At Sea

 Oh dear, my head. But we have an appointment with Breakfast in the Aurora Suite. It would have been nice to finish as we started with breakfast on the balcony, but as its the very front suite on the ship, if the wind is in the wrong direction that balcony is neither use not ornament. Mr C and Rod went out and tried to stand on it, but they were struggling even when hanging onto the rails, so its not the best of suites if you want to make use of the balcony on sea days. A poor design which we are sure could be rectified with some Perspex screening.  A bit of reorganisation and we had breakfast inside. Deepak was spot on time, just as he had been all cruise. Well, we knew what time to expect him despite what time he said he would be arriving. He usually gave a ‘between this and that time’

Its the dreaded packing day today. I hate these days. Everything seems to take forever, but in reality, once it was under way it wasn’t so bad. Then there was the where to have lunch debate. We decided whilst having a drink at Breakers Bar. I was surprised that it wasn’t al all windy up here today. I had just presumed that as it was so windy when we were about to have breakfast that it must be windy up on top deck. It was really hot by the bar and the cocktail of the day slipped down nicely. My choice for lunch would have been something from the grill, maybe a jacket potato and salad. But Mr C insisted we go and investigate the buffet. Im not a lover of these places on any ship but on the few occasions when I have nipped in the food has always been excellent and well presented and constantly replenished. I opted for some chicken tikka, rice and salad. Very nice, but what i didn’t enjoy was the fact that Mr C decided we should sit indoors. What? The sun is blazing outside and he decides to sit inside. It would have been nicer in the sunshine with an ice cold drink, but at least I can say I have eaten in the ‘cafe’.

Back to finish that dreaded packing, re label the bags, add security tags make sure they are locked and thats that done for another cruise.

We are out super early tonight and are in the Planet Bar for 6.30pm. The waitress recommended a martini cocktail to me, but oh dear it was like a yogurt in a glass. So that was passed onto the human dustbin known as Mr C. Despite the fact that most people have just gone to early meal sitting the place soon fills up again. Clearly a lot of people are out on a mission tonight. We headed down to Blue Bar at 7.30pm and usually its really easy to get a seat in here, but not tonight! Its standing room only. We ended up sitting at the bar. Our Garden Martinis were mixed to perfection and we reminisce about the past 13 or 14 days and nights. Oh happy days!

We amused ourselves at dinner watching the white envelope giving and the very annoying habit of the waiters to mark each envelope with who gave them each envelope.  We end the night in our favourite bar the Blue Bar with our favourite drinks, The Garden Martini. Then its a quick walk through Brodies to get some hugs and kisses from Clifford, and say our Goodbyes – until next time. And so to bed!

Friday 21^st January 2011 – Barbados

 Oh dear, there it is again. Barbados and that can only mean one thing! Its all over!  Well, not quite, we need to make the most of what short time we have here and un be known to us there is to be a little twist to the day. Mr C was despatched with necessary forms and passports to immigration at 7.30am in Manhattan and he was soon back advising that we were cleared to go ashore. Breakfast was a very sombre affair. We know its the last one and the party is over. I know its only a matter of time before the big Goodbye, so I find it easier to eat up in near silence. The parting was painful and tearful. Its just been the best cruise in absolutely ages. Well apart from the Queen Victoria pre Christmas, but it was easy to end that one knowing that this one was only 3 weeks away!

Despite the tears, me and Mr C still had enough time to venture ashore in Barbados. As we got back to the cabin, Sidney our cabin steward knocked to tell us he had made our day cabin ready for us and we could move the bags across. We disembarked the ship just as the heavens opened and oh boy did it lash down. I did have a brollie, but the rest of me got drenched. Mr C was able to run off into the terminal but after 14 days of lounging around I didn’t have the energy. Once we were inside the terminal building I had to take out the towel and at least dry my feet and flip flops or I could have broken my neck, slipping and sliding about. I had the briefest of looks in the shops, but I thought time was precious and we wanted to get to the beach. Back outside it was starting to drizzle again and the sky was grey but Mr C assured me it would clear. The walk in was quite entertaining. There was a gang of taxi drivers beyond the port gates having the most almighty argument. I would have liked to have stuck around for the outcome but no time. I have an appointment with a beach, some sunshine and a rum punch or three. As we are walking along the seafront path a man in a tricycle taxi things stops and asks us to listen to him. I really politely told him we had to be somewhere but he wasn’t letting us past, so we were forced to stand and listen to his entire speech about the town being closed due to some presidents birthday or something and where he could take us for $20 or $10 etc. He was really sweet, but we really needed to get on. Eventually he took my No to mean no, but he didn’t look best pleased about it! So we headed on our way. With the interruptions it took us about 25 mins to get into town and it really was like a ghost town. Whatever the national holiday was about, everyone was taking full advantage and staying out of town. Not a things was open apart from a bar in the harbour. A couple of taxi drivers stopped and tried to convince us we were on a lost mission by trying to find somewhere open, and they could do us a super doper price for a taxi tour of the island. But my beach was in sight. Over the bridge and a few hundred yards along, down an alley by an oily garage and we had reached our destination. The soft white sand, and the stunning calm blue sea of Barbados. Flip flops off and we walked along the shore, under the pier, past the Boatyard and The Lobster Pot and there it was the rickety old rum shack known as Dee’s! He has battered old tables and chairs, hand painted signs and a short row of sunloungers. Its such a prime spot but it always makes me smile that you take the place as you find it. Ive never ventured inside his rum shack, Mr C has, so I must ask him what its like. The man himself is out and recognises me from last year, which surprises me given the amount of rum n coke he must have consumed already today, let alone the last 12 months.  But my rum punch and Mr C’s Banks is on its way and Mr C heads for the sea leaving me to pay the man. He confuses hell out of me with his local accent when he asks for ‘five n tree’ what? Surely he cant been $53, so I tried him with $5. No tree! So I took that off him and gave him $3. Soon resolved $5 + $3 = $8!  That was hard work, nearly time for another drink by the time that was resolved. I had a look at funds and calculated how many could be consumed before the pot of $ was empty. One rum punch did try to get the better of me though, and had clearly been in cahoots with the exploding coffee as it took a dive all over the table and drowning my sun hat and camera! Oh no the camera is not working now! I blame the coffee, it had it in for me from that night and got the rum punch to attack when I least expected it. Sunhat was not looking to good so it was put to sunbathe ontop of the parasol.We tried to revive the camera and put all its components to dry in the sun but it wasn’t looking good. I went off into the sea to sulk. The sea was bliss. No chill to it. Crystal clear and easy to walk straight in and out of. Two local ladies were practicing a bit of Thai chi  on the edge of the beach which amused me as they were not putting too much effort into it. Sort of striking the poses, not quite getting it. All the time we are clock watching. We could have had longer on the beach if we used some of the dollars to get back to the ship, but that would eat into my rum punch fund. So we spent the last dollar on another drink and decided we needed to have a very brisk walk back to the ship if we were to have time to shower, change, get some lunch and be ready for transfer to the ship. Dee didn’t want us to leave, and tried very hard to persuade us to stay, but we had a plane to catch unfortunately. I had to have a final dip in the sea before finally putting my flip flops back on and going up the back alley for the walk back to the ship. We had only just reached the harbour when I got a text message advising me not to rush back as it had just been announced we had a four or 5 hour delay for the flight back to UK. If only we had some dollars in our pocket we would have headed back to the beach and made a day of it, but instead we steadied our pace and strolled back to the ship.

Straight up to Breakers and not at all surprised to see Sandra and Phil sat at the bar. Some people may not have been happy with the delay, but it wasn’t bothering us four. We were in Barbados, in the sunshine, on a ship. What was there to complain about. ‘Caribbean Cruise’ was the cocktail of the day, which seemed rather appropriate so I sampled a few of those. Turns out Phil had been buying me large ones!The ship was looking particularly deserted but it wasn’t long before new faces starting arriving. Only two weeks ago it would have been our fellow passengers faces that were new. Isn’t it funny how the ship soon starts to feel like its your own once you are onboard? Or is it just me that feels so at home? Its only something that happens on P&O and it certainly hasn’t happened on different ships that I have been on outside of P&O.  So it did feel like people were entering our home without an invite.

We had to give the day cabin up at 3.00pm which is a bit of a shame as we were due to leave the ship now until 5.30pm. I did ask at reception if we could keep it a while longer but it wasn’t to be. So at 2.00pm I had to go to our inside cabin day room and shower and change ready for the flight home. I couldn’t face the thought of trousers and jumper ready for the UK weather so I opted for long cool sundress. I might regret that decision at 9.30am tomorrow morning as I step off the plane! It was nice to have a shower and wash my hair after a hot day in the sun. A cabin steward knocked the door twice whilst I was in there in the hope that he could reclaim the cabin. I was out well before 3.00pm and I tried not to disturb the place too much. We only used the bathroom, hairdryer and dressing table mirror, so he didn’t have much cleaning up to do after us. One thing is for sure I cant go back to having an inside cabin again. There was only me in there drying my hair and i felt claustrophobic. There didn’t seem to be enough room to swing a cat. Not that I had a cat with me to swing! It wasn’t so long ago that I was happy with and inside and ecstatic if I got an outside with window, but I need my balcony now. Cant imagine what its like to not be able to step outside and feel the fresh air, check the temperature of the sun, and see what the port of the day is looking like.

We decided to have a meal in The GlassHouse and spend our last couple of hours just chillin. The boys seemed more than satisfied with their rib eye steak and us ladies had catch of the day. All the time more and more new passengers are filtering through the ship. We give a couple of ladies advice on where to drink and what the best martinis are. We recommended the Garden Tea Martinis of course!

Time had soon ticked round and the call went out for us to disembark and join the coaches waiting to take us to Barbados airport for the flight home. All day I had been praying for a longer flight delay and a transfer to a hotel, or to be invited to stay onboard the ship again, but it wasn’t to be. Before we knew it the cards had been scanned and final ‘Goodbye’ from the security scanner had been spoken. We were on the coach and on our way in no time at all. We weren’t even out of the port gates and Phil was snoring. We drove through the deserted town and onto the highway and before long the airport was infront of us. We showed our passports, had our hand luggage scanned through security and prayed that our suitcases did leave the ship as planned and we ready to be loaded onto the correct aircraft. We did have a bit of a giggle at the security scanner as we were in the queue behind some Japanese. First of all security pulled out some spanners and tools and told them off, then fed the bags back through again, only to find a cut throat razor in their bags. The Japanese men couldn’t seem to understand what all the fuss was about and were protesting that they needed to keep them. Even the security guard at our side found it amusing, and needless to say they weren’t allowed to keep them and their bags were searched more thoroughly as we were allowed through.

We had booked the airside Executive Lounge for our time at the airport. Despite having recently had a refurbishment it isn’t the best of airports in the world and facilities are a little limited. The Exec lounge was deserted with only one other group of four in there. Mr C was soon stocking up on Scooby snacks and rum & coke but I couldn’t face anymore and settled for a nice cup of tea and a cake. I went onto have some sprite and cola but Mr C seemed on a bit of a rum mission. There is plenty of choice of drinks including spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks and hot drinks including Horlicks! Snacks range from crisps and nachos, sandwiches, cakes, biscuits and sweets. Its nice just to sit in the cool and unwind.

We heard the call for our flight to go to gate, so decided we had to face facts and go home. We had the same seats going back as when we came but some of the crèche had moved. It was strange having new faces around us on the way back and it seemed that only the pre booked seats were occupied by the same people. The safety checks were done and it wasn’t long before Barbados disappeared into the darkness below us. A few minutes into the flight Mr C encountered a bit of locker rage. A man opened the locker above and someones camera fell to the floor leaving someone else to retrieve it. He had a bit of a rummage around and something else fell, hitting Mr C on the shoulder. Still the man carried on regardless. Lets just say that Mr C wasn’t to impressed! I told him it was a good idea that he went back to sleep and thankfully he did as he was told. I was soon looking at the inside of my eyelids myself and I woke up to see that the cabin crew had already been round with drinks! What? How did I miss that one? I will reclaim it next time P&O ; ) I didn’t need or want one and was soon back to sleep for a while until I heard noises relating to food being distributed. I wasn’t hungry either but thought I might as well indulge. The choice was sausage & mash or chicken curry. I had the sausage and mash and it was quite nice. I didn’t care much for the other bits that came with it and I saved the mini twix for my cup of tea and went back to sleep.  Next thing I knew the lights were back on and it was time for breakfast. A yogurt, a piece of cake and tea or coffee. I had the tea and cake. We landed on time into the most miserable sight of Birmingham airport you could ever see. Grey, raining, miserable UK weather. A long walk through to baggage reclaim, a rummage around for a £1 coin for the baggage and then the long long wait for the cases to come around on the carousel. It took forever. I called Lizy for our lift home and she was still asleep, but she had time to wake up, get dressed and drive to the airport and get parked before the baggage handlers had got the cases on the carousel.

My final amusing event was as we cleared customs and a passenger had spotted a Thomson representative and was giving her hell about the ‘unacceptable delay’!!! I had to smile. We were back where we had started with people around us complaining and moaning about the flight delays. Why? Who is in a hurry to get back to the UK? We saw it as a bonus. We had just had more or less a full day in Barbados instead of a few hours. In effect it was what we missed out on at the beginning of the cruise. But you cant please all of the people all of the time!

Monday 17^thJanuary 2011 – Curacoa

We are berthed port side too this morning so we got the sea view. And we have the place to ourselves. Even Captain Paul was excited about that! I’m missed my breakfast in Seventeen this morning due to work commitments. I had to make do with a bacon buttie supplied by Mr C from the cafe! He came back gloating how wonderful breakfast was in Seventeen this morning!

No surprises to discover it was dam hot outside, if a little breezy along the front. I’m not a lover of this port, mainly due to the dam lizard creatures that habitate the place. They completely freak me out, so I wasn’t best pleased when I had my first encounter with one just outside the dock gate. He wasn’t as big as I experienced on the beach last time, but he did stop my heart momentarily. I was on lizard watch from that moment on. The actual place itself is very pretty to look at with its Dutch influence and pastel coloured buildings, but the town itself does little for me and the beaches were a total no go area after my very close encounters with lizards last year. We walked over the floating bridge and into town, through the back streets and back around to the floating market. As we walked around the corner the bridge was swinging around to let a yacht in so we stood and watched that for a while and waited for it to float back so we could get back to the ship. There is a regular ferry going back and forth across the river but it wasn’t long before the bridge swung back so probably not much in it timewise. By now it was roasting hot and the deck was calling me. We were soon back onboard and settled up by Breakers. We were on a mission to drink our way through the cocktail menu, but were stopped in our tracks when the steward advised us they had no mango for a mango Collins, so that was the end of that game. We sampled cocktails at random from that point on. I did have some work to do to, so I kept nipping back down to the cabin to use the laptop. I eased the pain by sipping champagne that was open in the fridge.

Oh, Ive been to book a day cabin for our disembarkation day in Barbados on Friday. I’m going to describe it as ‘painful but amusing’. Its a good job Lynn came with me as a witness because she would never have believed it had I gone back and explained it. Not the most well thought out procedure and certainly not slick. We were educated to new heights with the in queue entertainment. Did you know that Gold members get 15% off everything! Fact!! It must be true because I heard it in the queue. And Golds get priority everything, plus breakfast in Seventeen. Cant wait to reach this level of Goldness! Anyway I got my inside day cabin sorted (eventually) for use as a day room when we arrive in Barbados. We are due to disembark at around 2.00pm so for me it was worth the £45 to have somewhere to store my hand luggage and freshen up with a shower and change of clothes. Outsides were £55, and balcony cabins £70 and superior deluxe £85.

By the time we got back on deck the deck party was in full swing. We watched some of the sailaway from this pretty port before retreating to the coolness of the cabin. Not a lot of time to get ready this evening, and I cant recall the last time I had enough time for an afternoon nap. We were invited to the Senior Officers Private Party up by Breakers bar, so we opted for pre party drinks in the Aurora Suite, complete with nibbles. Impressive service you get in these suites! We cut it a little fine for arrival at the party. It didn’t help that we had a bit of ‘lift’ wars. Lifts kept arriving, but it was full of the passenger types that are not prepared to squeeze in a little. Third time a lift arrived I decided I was getting in no matter what. The girls stepped in, but the lads decided to take the stairs. We got from deck 9 to 11 and some others got out so I called the lads in, by which time us girls were in hysterics. I could tell you why, but you had to be there. We made it as far as deck 15 and then it became apparent that my original request for deck 16 hadn’t been input by the lord of the lifts at the time. Before we knew what was happening, we were going back down, stopping at every other deck, and then all the way back up again doing much the same! Needless to say we were among the last to arrive at the party. It meant I got another kiss from Captain though. Drinks were flowing and a jolly good time was had by all. We could have stayed longer but we suddenly realised it was gone 8.45pm and we were later than late for dinner. We blame Captain Paul, he kept us chatting!

So, fast route to Oriental Restaurant was sought. We opted to cut along the top deck and cut down a deck at the SeaScreen. Just why the lads chose to suggest that we ‘shhh’d’ so loudly is beyond me. It was echoing all around the pool area. Blankets are supplied for watching the big screen during the evening and I was amazed to see some snuggled under blankets in this tropical heat. One couple had two blankets, chin to toe. It was a very balmy evening with no breeze as the ship was pottering along at a snails pace for the party later. We were having a very brisk giggly walk through the buffet area, and we were spotted by our Restaurant Manager, as he pointed to his watch. Ooops! We are late!

We slid into the restaurant backwards so that nobody knew whether we were coming or going. We apologised to Wilfred in double triplicate and we were allowed to stay. Phew! For one second there I thought we were going to have to survive more than 3 hours without food. Much hilarity and giggling followed during dinner. Im not over sure why, or what at, but it amused us at the time.

Back upto deck 16, without too much lift wars, for the Tropical Party. It was rammed. I have never seen so many people out there. Michelle made sure we were kept supplied with drinks and a good time was had by all. Our legs were getting weary with all this standing, and jiggling to the music, so we headed up the stairs to the balcony above and took up residence in some sun loungers. Mr C ceased the moment and closed his eyes and he was gone. Rodders decided to take a leaf out of Mr C’s book and opted for 40 winks! Us ladies decided to teach them a lesson for falling asleep on us and we slipped away under a cloak of darkness and left them to snore under the stars. We were tucked up in bed before they had time to realise they were alone!

Tuesday 18^th January 2011 – Aruba

There was a lot of love in Aruba today.What a fab day. Ventura arrived shortly after us and she looked magnificent shining in the early morning sunshine. We went for breakfast at Seventeen and sat overlooking Ventura’s bow. The sun was blazing and not a cloud in the sky.

By the time we went ashore the crew from both ships were meeting on the dockside, and waiting for their friends to disembark. Its an understatement to say there was alot of love around. Lots of hugging and kissing all around, and beaming happy smiling faces. Ventura was practically kissing Azuras ass, and they looked amazing together. Just a pity that there wasn’t a good vantage point for a photo of both ships together.

We had to plan our day carefully today as we had a lot we wanted to fit in. Mr C wanted to do some snorkeling and I ‘needed’ to shop. We chose to get off the ship early, where were greeted by Ventura crew that recognised us from our previous cruises. It was a nightmare trying to get a cab to the beach so we walked down to the Ventura terminal where it seemed easier. All set cab fares here. We thought we wanted Eagle Beach and tried to check with our driver, but he just kept telling us all beaches were great for snorkeling in Aruba,. We didn’t seem to have been in the cab long, when I commented that the beach we were passing looked nice. Next thing I knew we were pulling into the layby and he informed us it was Eagle Beach. We knew it wasnt the beach Mr C was wanting, but as the driver said it was good for snorkeling we paid the $13 and got out. The beach was indeed stunning, soft white sand, clear blue sea lapping onto the beach and shallow to just walk into. But it became clear to Mr C it didn’t have the rocks and coral pools he was after so we were back off the beach and in another cab to Boco Catalina Beach. That cost us a further $15 but was in line with what we had read on the board back in the port. Boco Catalina is only a small little beach, very rocky and has no facilities, but it is where all the excursions go for the snorkeling as it is a fab spot. Mr C said that the fishes he saw were stunning. I lay on the beach and fried. No shade, no chance of getting into the sea because it was too rocky and he had forgotten to pack my sea shoes! We only stayed an hour so he could snorkel and then packed up and left. I would have happily got back into a cab and paid $30 to get back to the port, but the only one that passed us failed to stop for us. We knew there was a 30 min bus service but we had no idea what time it came. When he eventually arrived, some 25 mins later it was only $2.60 back to the port! A big saving but it did go in and out of the resorts all the way back down the coast so was too drawn out for me. The bus station is just opposite the port gates so we headed back to the ship to freshen up, before going back out again. Still a lot of love in the port between the two ships, and the ships company. I hope all of them got at least an hour or so off to go and see their friends.

We walked back into town and browsed the shops then headed for Iguana Joes for cooling drinks and nibbles. Mr C made the mistake of ordering a long island iced tea, which came in a carafe and nearly knocked him sideways.

Still a lot of love around, as crew from both ships were partying together. Some ended in tears though as they realised they had to say goodbye to each other again!

I got recognised in the Swarovski shop by passengers from Ventura as GoCruisewithJane. I cant recall how many times people have recognised me this cruise, but it has happened a lot. I hope the lady goes onto have a nice time on Ventura anyway. Ventura was only just starting her cruise and we were on our way back. I should have jumped ship really and gone around again.

We arrived back at the ship in time for sailaway party. It was Great British Sailaway tonight so we knew it was going to be a big one. And that it was! Much flag waving, and singing of all the Great British Sailaway songs.

Captain Paul kept us advised about departure and the plans to sail past Ventura, and I worked out I had time to get back to the cabin and get showered to observe from the balcony. My plan worked. We pulled out and sat still for her to follow us out and pass down our starboard side. Captain Paul was not best pleased to have a yellow catamaran come and sit off our starboard side, then he became concerned about the sunset. So after a chat with Captain Ventura, Captain Paul decided to turn and pass Ventura on her starboard side, so we were both starboard side too. What a truly spectacular and unforgettable sight for a twin sister ship to pass so closely and so slowly. The horn blasting was deafening, but Captain Paul did warn us. Fabulous! Loved it. Thanks Captain Paul for keeping Ventura on our starboard side. I know you wouldn’t have wanted to upset me  : )

Pre dinner Champagne in Aurora Suite again this evening, complete with sausages in a loaf, and tomato sauce. Posh canapés were also available, but sausages were far more popular.

Ive hit a wall with food now and it wouldn’t have bothered me if we hadn’t gone into dinner, I just don’t need any more food! We left dinner feeling lethargic and completely zapped by the Caribbean sunshine. We headed for Blue Bar for a quiet civilised drink, and the boys have done it again! Fallen asleep! Much to the amusement of the bar staff, especially as Mr C’s head was slowly tipping back until it reached the snapped position and then he would momentarily open his eyes before slipping back to sleep again.

Saturday 15^th January 2011 – Tortola

I woke up this morning just as we were approaching Tortola a view of  hill glided by and the next thing I knew we were berthing starboard side to. The aft end of a ship already berthed started to unfold along the side of the balcony and from my bed I could identify it as a Celebrity purely via the view of its balconys! How sad is that? Ive turned into some kind of freak ship spotter who can identify ships by looking at glass partitions on balcony’s. I should really have rolled over and gone back to sleep, but there was a day of Caribbean sunshine ahead of me. Why change the habit of a lifetime, so we started with breakfast under the bridge wing. We do wonder if the bridge observe our morning ritual via the fish eye under the bridge. Our American cousins are all piling off the Millennium and a couple of guys with metal detectors are attracting attention. What would posses anyone to want to pack metal detectors for a cruise? We were off the ship fairly early and straight onto a waiting open sided bus for the journey to Cane Garden Beach. Its worth every cent of the $8 one way fare, just for the scenic journey. It got a bit hair raising in places with some of the huge pot holes and in places total loss of road where it had slipped down the hill side. Cane Garden Beach was mega busy and it wasn’t much after 10.00am when we arrived. To see this beach at its best you really do have to arrive before 9.00am. We eventually found a row of vacant sun beds right on the waters edge and we were happy and settled. The sea was a bit fierce today with some angry looking waves rolling in, they were catching a lot of people unaware and taking paddlers off their feet. The tide often swept right up the beach and under or sun loungers, which again was a musing watching other peoples flip flops etc get caught up and float out to sea. Best pastime of the day became watching the people arriving on the tours for the beach stop and them standing admiring the sea. Next thing they knew a wave would sweep around their feet and they would not be impressed with wet trainers and shoes. Me and Mr C had a lovely wander right upto the far end of the beach and back. It really is a lovely beach, just a shame that it attracts so many people. The sun was very very hot as it poked its head around the palm trees, and it wasn’t easy for me to get in and out the rough sea to cool down. Mr C had a total blonde moment and dived in the sea wearing his sunglasses! That was the last we saw of those! The metal detector guys from the Celebrity ship were up and down the beach but we didn’t see them pick up any sunglasses.

At 1.45pm we decided enough was enough and we needed to head back to the ship, get out of the sun and where better place than Pussers Bar! We walked off the beach, straight into one of the many waiting mini buses. This was a real one with doors and windows but it was so hot in there even with the air conditioning on. It was so hot, the windows were scalding and Im sure you could have fried and egg on them.

We were soon back on the ship, washed, showered and changed and walking back into town to Pussers. As we suspected it was rammed, but we walked in and went straight to a vacant table. Lynn and I were sensible and started on Painkiller #1, but Mr C felt the need to go straight in for #4. Even Rod seemed on a mission with his Nelsons Blood! We ordered three plates of food to pick at and I was disappointed that the grumpy waitress didn’t serve us. She is so grumpy, she’s fun! We had ‘secret recipe’ Pussers chicken wings, cheese and bacon melt spicy fries, and nacho’s. Yum! We soon polished those off so Mr C ordered another plate of jerk chicken wings. By now he was on Painkiller #4 x 3! The place was emptying out which was getting quite worrying, but I think it was the Thomson Destiny crowd who must have vacated, because by the time we got outside at 5.00pm the ship was nowhere to be seen, so had clearly weighed anchor and sailed off. We had a look round the shop and some tango orange shirts caught the lads eye. Next thing we knew they were making purchases with plans to be the same at dinner this evening. The poor woman serving them has obviously seen drunken men making rash purchases in the past. She even humoured them and their silly little Monty Python sketches etc. Quite why Mr C was trying to sell her a cruise via a well known, award winning, travel agent is beyond me. But he insisted she had a business card and he left very clear instructions about checking my facebook page! We got outside and the ship was still there! Phew! It was a long quiet walk though and I was half expecting the ship to slip away at any minute. But Im sure the lovely Captain wouldn’t slip away without the Chadwick onboard. He wouldn’t dare : )

No time for sleeps or the sailaway party. I had a little bit of work to catch up and wardrobe planning for the night ahead.

We are dining in Sindhu this evening so pre dinner drinks in the bar there. But first I had to have a diversion to the Swarovski sale in the shop onboard. Luckily for Mr C there was nothing that enticed me, or nothing that I didn’t already have.

I ordered the other speciality cocktail in Sindhu. I had tried the other one the other night, and although it was nice it was far more of a deck drink than a pre dinner drink. So tonight I ordered the other one, which a was long drink but when it arrived the waitress knew it wasn’t to my liking so it was taken back and we opted for glasses of champagne instead. Avalon popped by to see how we were doing and we tried in vain to get the choice of cocktail menu put to rights. Avalon feels our frustration at not being able to get the drinks we want to drink on deck etc, simply because they are not loaded on the micros. We need a weeks consultation with P&O to get the drinks menu kicked into touch.

We were a little late going through to dinner but it didn’t affect the service. As we have come to expect from the likes of Orchid and East etc the service was slick and professional. Menu choice and my own personal tastes would still give preference to Orchid, then East and then Sindhu. But everything we had was very nice. The lamb was getting very good praise from the lads. We chose the chicken lavender (or was it violet?) infused korma, which was nice but I was full from the delicious starter and complimentary cup-a-soup from the chef. I had the orange and pomegranate trifle for desert. Now that was to die for! The bread and butter pudding also seemed a big hit.

If you are celebrating a birthday onboard and want something really special, can I suggest you celebrate in Sindhu. It has got to be the most entertaining and exciting celebration of ‘Happy Birthday’ that I have ever seen at sea. Loved it! It wasn’t our birthday by the way but a table close by.

By the time we had taken desert, after dinner liqueurs, coffee etc it was getting on for 11.30pm. where does time go at sea?  We had arranged to meet with Avalon in Grey Bar (sorry Blu Bar) and we thought he might have thought we had stood him up. We had a very sociable evening in there and Avalon introduced us to the English Garden Martinis. Why have we not discovered these before? They are to die for. Simply wonderful! In other words we like! You see this is why we miss the old school bar staff. They know about drinks and their experience is being overlooked. I suppose this is why Avalon is now a BM. He just needs to pass his skill and knowledge onto the new boys now. Unfortunately Avalon couldn’t stay out and party but left in the knowledge that he had ensured his passengers were happy and we partied on until the bar was closing, and the ghostbusters were in doing their cleaning duties.

The lads had come up with some pathetic challenge to try and out do us and stay up later than us. That failed miserably when Rodders from Team Orange caved in and went to bed at about 1.00pm. Mr C was under the impression that he could still out do us and couldn’t see that he had already got a failed mission as half his team were missing. We wandered down to Brodies much to Cliffords shock! I think he thought he had a night off with us ladies being safely tucked up in bed hours again, but oh no. We continued to play along with Mr C’s little game of who could stay out the latest. I knew he couldn’t resist the feel of his soft white Egyptian sheets on him. He took some convincing and was so sure he could resist them that he allowed us to take him upto the cabin just to have a look at them. Yes, we had him! He took one look at the bed, unbuttoned his shirt and admitted defeat. Team Orange had been defeated by two girls! I think that also means we get £150!

Sunday 16^th January 2011 – at sea

Breakfast under the bridge wing where else! A unique little venue, that has become our frequent early morning breakfast location. This morning was no exception and we were there at 8.00am for 8.30am. Flying fish are in abundance and some dolphins would have been cool, but it wasn’t to be. We were on the early morning shaded side but it was hot! Too hot can you believe? Elsewhere on the ship people seemed to be scurrying about on a mission leaden with towels and books, and I knew that was going to be a bad sign for when I eventually did want to venture on the deck. I didn’t exactly make a choice about how my morning panned out, but me and the laptop spent quite a bit of time together in the coolness of the cabin. Mr C tried sitting on the balcony, but it was too hot so he took refuge at Beakers Bar with a cold bottle of beer. I eventually got outside to join him but the heat was intense. Not even a hint of a breeze out on the open deck. People were laid frying like they had never seen sun before.

The steel band were playing and a barbeque was around the Coral Pool, but queuing for a burger with people in swimwear in this heat is not my kind of fun, so we chose to eat in GlassHouse. So much more civilised. The menu had changed since last week, and we both had Catch of the Day. Very nice indeed, and for a small cover charge of £4.95pp. Very reasonable for alternative dining. Our own personal drinks advisor, Avalon, had told us last night to try and Canadian Fizz. You see this is why experienced crew with knowledge are invaluable. I would never have thought to try a fizzy wine made from frozen grapes, but I will be drinking more! It was very nice indeed and I managed two glasses.

After lunch we went off on a bit of a wander. First stop for me was the Library to see the internet manager. I had wondered why I hadn’t received 20 minutes internet credit for purchasing the top package of internet time at the beginning of the cruise. It seemed to have been standard practice for years that when you purchased the 240 minutes, at £65, you got the 20 mins free if you made the purchase within the first 24 hours departure. His response was that it doesn’t apply to all ships in the fleet, which seems a little bit odd. My internet time is all used up, so I asked if there was any special deal for purchasing another top package, and sadly there isn’t.

Next stop was tours. Im not a lover of Curacao due to those dam lizard things that roam the beaches like they own the place! Mr C flicked through the tour guide but didn’t see anything inspiring so we didn’t book a tour.

Gemma, Future Cruise & Loyalty, was the final port of call. I needed to ask about Future Cruise Credits and deposit as the deposit amount seemed to have changed. Of course, as a travel agent I am already aware of the scheme I had been advised that it was a £200 future cruise payment, which is then used as a deposit or part deposit for when you eventually book a cruise back home through your regular ABTA travel agent. In return you would also receive additional and generous amounts of OBC for the booking, just as you would have done if you had already confirmed a booking whilst onboard. The system now seems a little simpler. You simply make a future cruise credit payment of £50pp and in return you get an additional £50pp onboard credit of a future cruise booking that you make with your regular travel agent. You have also paid £50 towards your deposit. The future cruise credit lasts for 12 months and you can book any cruise during the 12 month period to receive the credit.

I had my first ride of the cruise in a glass lift upto deck 15. We walked all around deck 15 looking for Lynn n Co, but it was my idea of hell out there. Baking hot, to an unbearable degree (this is coming from me who loves the sun) and sunbeds laid out without any consideration for fellow passengers. If someone had spotted a space, they had laid a bed in it. I knocked a few as I walked past them out of sheer devilment so as to disturb them for their inconsideration of not leaving a pathway to allow movement of passengers and stewards. There were large groups of chairs all over the place with sunbathing towels and books where their occupiers had no doubt nipped back inside away from the blaze of the sun. This is the point at which I realise my ideal ship is either a Cunard Grill class, where I would have a dedicated deck of comfortable sun loungers and plenty of space. That to me, is the equivalent of having a small ship feel on a larger ship. Or of course I could choose to sail with the luxury brands such as Silversea and Regent etc and really have some space! Of course, if I had enjoyed the Retreat, that could have been my ideal venue!

We retreated to the cabin. Mr C laid on the bed and was gone within nano seconds. Looks tempting, so I snuck under the duvet and the next thing I knew the canapés were being delivered, so it must be ticking on toward evening. I threw open the balcony doors but the heat from the sun hit you full on. It really was very very hot, but I keep telling you that don’t I?!

Black and White night and Portunus party this evening. Could be another Boys V’s Ladies, late night stop up challenge ahead of us, so just as well I have fitted in some sleep.

Pre party drinks in the Blue Bar gave us plenty of frock watching opportunities, before moving onto the Portunus Party in Manhattan. Kisses from the Captain and hugs from Neil, what more can a girl want! We were well looked after with drinks and it was a very sociable affair. Gala dinner was very nice too although the cherries jubilee didn’t come near to those served on Queen Victoria. Oh, I was so spoilt on Queen Victoria.

There were all sorts going on in and around the ship. Black & white ball, Night at the Oscars, theatre show, double karaoke, dancing in the Atrium. We chose to go back to blue and drink our new found English Garden Martinis. We must have been tipsy because we had a portrait photo taken which looks very nice. The boys declared that there was no challenge this evening and retreated to their beds, leaving Lynn and I sitting in Blue Bar until the early hours putting the world to rights. We left there well after lights out and were shocked to see Brodies still absolutely packed with Karaoke in full swing. Had there been a bar stool with our name on it we might of stayed, but there wasn’t so we took a carriage to our suites.

I woke up to my idea of port hell this morning! 6 ships were scheduled to be berthed and the late arrival of the monster Allure of the Seas had delayed everyones berthing times. Captain Paul did not sound like a happy man to be kicked into last position for berthing time this morning. So who was out there? Holland America Neiw Amsterdam, MSC Posisia, Aida Aluna, Celebrity Summit and Allure of the Seas. That equates to in excess of 20,000 passengers going ashore. My idea of hell. We stood up on deck 19 and looked down at all the people walking along the dockside in the direction of duty free and the water taxi. I could quite happily avoid the lot of them and stay onboard, but St Maarten is one of my favourite Caribbean ports so I didn’t want to miss it.

We started the day with a visit to Seventeen for Breakfast, purely for research purposes. We dined al fresco on the open deck and the breakfast was excellent. All freshly cooked to order.  The setting was wonderful but I didn’t think the venue delivered the personal dedicated service that I would have expected for suite guests. Fantastic concept and idea but it needs a bit more polish.

Its already oh so hot in the Caribbean sunshine and we had for shore as soon as we can in the hope that we can avoid some of the crowds. You should have seen the queue for the water taxi, we opted to avoid that and walk into town, but even that had to be done at everyone elses pace as the pathway was rammed with passengers from all 6 ships. It was really really busy as we walked along the front and to was before 10.00am. its usually pretty deserted at this time of day. The beach was packed and the dekchair touts were out trying to get your attention to sit on their chairs. We stopped for an ice cold drink along the front. $1 for a beer! Bargain! Not that I drink beer but the rum punch wasn’t much more. I wish I could say it had cooled me down and refreshed me, but I was melting as we tried to look in the shops. The secret was to locate one with good air-conditioning and just stay in there as long as possible. I was even happy to stand in the electrical shop while Mr C chatted about iPads to the guy behind the counter. He was going to make a purchase, but it turns out they were about the same price as in the UK.  We stopped for another drink in the Greenhouse and a few nibbly bits before walking back in the direction of the ship and straight back onboard.

Straight in the lift and out by Breakers bar. Yes, my idea of P&O heaven. A deserted deck, an open bar and waiters on hand eager to serve.  Didn’t take me long to settle under my sun hat and just do nothing! Perfectness! I was brave and ventured down to the pool below for a dip to cool down. Not the easiest of pools to negotiate with a bad back down the steep ladder. Once I was in I had no chance of being able to touch the floor at either end of the pool so I was soon in panic mode and out of there.

It wasn’t long before I was looking at the insides of my eyelid, but no sooner were they closed than one of the blasted ships in port would honk its dam whistle. Why? The Holland America ship was threatening to leave port for what seemed like hours so I was glad when she finally slipped her lines and gave us a better view. But then there were repeat performances from the other 4 in dock and so there was no chance of any shut eye. It got down to Celebrity and Royal Caribbean in the new berth opposite and us. Our 60’s 70’ sailaway party was in full swing and we did not leave quietly. I would have liked to see Allure leave before us just so I could get a better view of her inside outside bit, but I wont loose sleep over not getting a better look.

We had pre dinner drinks in Planet Bar as Avalon has been selling the benefits of the Martin Menu up there. I had the Melontini again but Ive had better.  It gets very busy in here pre dinner, with a lot going to view the wall!

60’s & 70’s party out on deck this evening with the lads attended under protest. It was busy, mega busy, and we stood for ages waiting for a seat. We eventually got one up by Breakers. But the heat and sunshine has zapped us. Its hard work this Caribbean cruising lark! The lads were so engrossed in lads world that we wondered if they would notice if we slipped away. It was an easy mission. They thought we had gone for a dance, but really we were in the lift and heading for our beds. I was washed, makeup removed, dress hung and put away, jewellery off and put away, lights off and asleep before Mr C came through the door in a panic, having just realised his wife was missing! Men!!

Friday 14^thJanuary 2011 – St Kitts

My peace and Caribbean view was disturbed this morning by Carnival Victory being what seemed like an arms length away from my balcony this morning. They all gawped over as we had breakfast served by the Butler and became the topic of many a photo shoot.

Im not a lover of St Kitts, or its monkeys that seem to be around every corner, so we had planned a day of blissful relaxation in The Retreat. For those of you that read my previous post, you will know my day did not pan out as we had hoped and the Retreat did not live up to our expectations. See the previous post if you need to catch up.

By 1.30pm we were back on deck 16. I loved the normality of all of it and lack of expectation. Mr C ordered a bucket of Bud, by way of celebration while I tried my hardest to get a decent cocktail. I had it on great authority, that if a drink was on the micros I could have it, despite whether it was on the drinks menu or not. But it wasn’t to be and I had to settle for something else despite knowing what I wanted.

Carnival Victory was so dam noisy and invaded our noise space all afternoon. Highlight of the afternoon was when they announced the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ and invited passengers to come and take part. The old guy behind me got up and put his shirt on and told his wife, in all seriousness, that he going to take part. He must have had fun looking for it and I didn’t see him come back. He must have stood like most of the other passengers watching from Azura’s railings.

We opted for pre dinner champagne in the Chadwick Suite this evening. It was supposed to be pre, pre dinner drinks, but time ticked by fast. Must have been something to do with the impromptu, girly hair session.

By the way, have I told you how fab our cabin steward is? He is like having a mini butler. I’ve heard so many stories of the stewards becoming more or less invisible these days, them having too many cabins to clean, no interaction with passengers as they used to in the days gone by. Well, Sidney could not be more visible. Every time we step outside the cabin he sticks his head out of the cabin he is cleaning to say Good Morning/Good afternoon etc. Always telling us to have a nice day/evening and always asking if we need anything. Tonight it had completely slipped my mind that I would need champagne glasses and I rushed out very late in search of him. I could have bleeped him but thought my method quicker. Indeed it was, because I opened the door and he is there. Ive no sooner put in my request for glasses and a couple of cans of soft drink and he is back with a tray, and asking if he can be of any further help. 11 out of 10 for Sidney. A credit to P&O!

We were hoping to dine in the Verona Trattoria this evening but we were too late to even be offered a bleeper. Im told it is so popular that they can be full by 6.45pm with no further bleepers to be handed out. We had no choice but to dine in Oriental as we don’t do the cafes!

The lads were defeated once again this evening and headed for their beds straight after dinner. That left us ladies to do some people watching in the Atrium and observe the ballroom dancing below, it was another semi formal night this evening, and possibly not a s well adhered to as it was the first time around.

We went to see the best remaining barman in the P&O fleet this evening. We have decided we need a Clifford in every bar and all will be well with our P&O world. Clifford made us the most perfect Cosmopolitan we have ever tasted and he had two very happy ladies sat at his bar.