P&O Ventura. Barbados 12.02.2010

[purplecatherine]

Hi all.

I've just booked our first cruise (hurrah!!!). We're on P&O Ventura departing Barbados on 12th Feb. 2010. There's me (mum), hubby and son (10 years).

We are calling @ Barbados, St.Vincent, Grenada, Curacao, Aruba, Catalina Island, Tortola, St.Maarten, St.Kitts & St.Lucia.

Can anyone suggest any 'most-do' excursions (or indeed 'don't bother' excursions), on any or all of these ports? Are they best booked through the ship or in-port? Is it best to hire snorkel equipment (if not included in the excursion) or take our own?

Can anyone tell me about the laundrette on board? How much is it? Do I need to take washing power/tablets?

What about clothing? On the non-formal nights, what is the accepted dress code? What will my son (10 years) be expected to wear on both the formal & non-formal nights? What to wear during the day?

How can I minimise on-board expenditure?

We are in cabin D719. Anyone been in that cabin?

Is it possible for my son to visit the bridge or is that strictly off-limits?

Soooo many questions I know, but I really have no idea what to expect.

I'm a Coeliac and need gluten free food but I think I'll post a new thread about that one!

Thanks in advance for any advice given.

Cheers.
PC

[soccerref]

Welcome to the wonderul world of cruising.
You might be better asking these questions on the P&O -UK board. Look under 'cruise lines' on the main forum menu. P&O also have a very good web site of their own where there is a forum for specific ships with loads of info. Just google P&O and look for their home site.
Have a fab time.