We embark on the P&O cruise ship Britannia bound for the Norwegian Fjords for 7-nights. We’re leaving from Southampton on our second-ever cruise.
Departing Southampton
Like our first cruise experience, the embarkation process at the Ocean Terminal was smooth and efficient, assisted by friendly, professional staff. The whole process took just 20 minutes. From arriving at the terminal, checking in and security to boarding the ship.
When we boarded, we were greeted by staff in the spacious atrium. Although this is not one of the largest cruise ships (it has a passenger capacity of around 3,600 guests), this was the largest ship we have been on.
Onboard Britannia
We were onboard by 12:30 pm although the rooms were not available until 1:30 pm, so it was buffet time, which as you would expect on embarkation day, was busy. Our room was a standard balcony room on deck 15, one floor down from the Lido deck and buffet.
P&O Britannia does offer a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets, from cosy (small) interior cabins to expansive balcony suites. Personally, we need a balcony and a little outside space.
After unpacking, we had a quick look around the ship and its bars and restaurants which included:
- The Horizon Buffet (included)
- Poolside Pizzeria and Grill (included)
- Peninsular Restaurant (included)
- Meridian Restaurant (included)
- Oriental Restaurant (set-time dining, included)
- The Glass House (charge)
- Sindhu (charge)
- Epicurean (charge)
- Market Cafe (charge)
- Limelight Club (charge)
Importantly, there were plenty of bars around the ship so getting a drink was not difficult.
On the Lido deck, there was an outdoor heated pool as well as a couple of hot tubs although these were usually full of kids. There was an adult-only pool towards the front of the ship but surprisingly there we no adult-only hot tubs.
Also, there was ‘The Retreat” a premium open-air deck area and spa. As we were crossing the North Sea on an overcast, windy weekend, we didn’t pay for this.
Overall, the check-in and boarding experience was just as smooth, if not smoother, than our very-first crusie on P&O Aurora. The whole process is far less stressful than the airport experience, which seems to be getting work every year.
Value For Money?
Apart from the lack of hassle when boarding, one of the main reasons for our new found love of cruising is the value for money. Especially when visiting a relatively expensive country such as Norway. The price of the cruise covers transportation, accommodation and most of the food which all adds up so quickly when booking separately.
We think we will be booking another cruise in the very near future.
If you want some more cruise tips check out Mel’s 100 Essential Tips For First-Time Cruisers.
Also, to find out more about our Norwegian Fjord cruise on P&O Brittania please take a look at these videos from our YouTube channel.
