Designed for people who want to leave the country without the hassle of traffic light systems, passenger locator forms, and with the minimum of testing, a ‘Seacation’ is a great compromise. Just one test at Southampton, and by the time I had driven from gate 20 to gate 4 and unloaded the car, I had a text message to say I was clear to board.
Masks were worn in the inside areas but were not required in the cabin or while eating and drinking. The buffet was open with staff behind the counter to load up your plate. There were three shows each evening rather than the usual two, because of the reduced capacity of the theatre, giving passengers a wider choice of times.
It was just a three-night cruise with no ports of call but it was great to get away and be on the ocean again – with the usual P&O service. The food was excellent and particularly enjoyed the amazing Indian food at Sindhu and Eric Landlard’s fantastic afternoon tea. Easy to understand why he quickly became the master pastry chef for the Roux Brothers.
As well as a chance for crusers to get back on board, these short ‘Seacation’ cruises give people considering a cruise a chance to dip their toe in the water, in more ways than one!
Activities were a little limited due to the reduced number of passengers on board but there was still plenty to do during the day and good entertainment every evening.
