P&O Cruises, Arcadia Review

Arcadia

This cruise was a gift from our son for our anniversay and our first holiday for 12 years.
We were glad to get away .
It soon became very obvious that Arcadia was not ready to sail.
Although she had been made safe to go to sea her interior was far from ready after 2 years bobbing about in Weymouth Bay, there was a lot of comestic work and repairs left untouched as we embarked. The ship was only half full ( due to covid) which was a help as several lifts never worked, numerous toilets were constantly closed, sunbeds filthy although occasionally crew could be seen cleaning some...usually in an area where no one was around but popular areas never cleaned. s
Showers & toilet by the by the pool on/off opening or working, one pool never opened, spas, hot tubs and the hydro pool never worked/opened.Using the stairs and walking didn't bother us but the many wheelchair users and many more elderly and infirm found it very difficult at times. every window needed cleaning inside and out. the balcony glass was filthy too. The balcony furniture was very dirty and the balaconies needs remedial work on the surrounds.
the entire ship was in need of TLC and a lot of upgrading.
Covid precautions were not an issue as they were necessary.
Legionaire's disease was a threat as a worker in Southampton had been diagnosed. The entire water system was flushed out as a precaution. Yes, 2 bottles of complimentary water an £25 on board compensation for no food or toilets for 4 hours was given, but for those not leaving the ship in Cadiz this was no help. we went ashore and had a lovely day.
The entertainment was very very mediocre. The entertainers did their best but they were not what you would expect from one of the top lines.
The Captain ,his staff and crew were wonderful and dealt with the non stop complaints and problems with patience and dignity. We made no complaints and made the most of our holiday. However we were disappointed as we expected much more from a P&O luxury cruise. The tv adverts bear no resemblance to our cruise!!! After 12 years we expected great improvement in all areas.
The ultimate drinks package IS A RIP OFF.
Both occupants of the cabin must purchase a package....alcoholic or non alcoholic.
The package must be purchased every day of the cruise.
Drinks are limited to certain types and prices and frequency of ordering .
Luckily we were not foolish enough to buy these packages but many did and regretted their decision.
We had thought of booking a world cruise on Arcadia before our cruise. Definitely not
We ordered drinks as and when we wanted them and paid a mere fraction of the package cost.
Including the cost of our fares, transport, insurance, on board spending and other expenses it cost almost £7000...money not well spent and could have bought a luxurious holiday elsewhere. We so appreciated our son's kindness and have not shared our disappointment.
As we sailed from Cadiz to Southampton the Captain informed that us all that Arcadia would not be cruising again until July and all subsequent cruises were cancelled. Many passengers were on back to back cruises . There was some bitterly disappointed people....not to mention angry .
The official reason was to spread staff around other ships in the fleet due to covid staff shortages. This excuse was not well received. Arcadia has been sailing in and out of Southampton and Portland and back in Weymouth/Torbay since April 12th.
Hopefully she will be back in service in July. She's very obviously a well loved ship with many fans.
Many people enjoyed the cruise and, like us, made the most of the holiday after the long covid break!
Thank you giving me the opportunity to describe our disapointment.
I have written to P&O with no reply or acknowledgement. Several people we met on board have written similarly with no response.
P&O you are losing fans and customers. Your glory days are over.

Fred Olsen looking good!