2TasDevils

We've been on the Sun and the Pearl and we're trying to figure out which P&O ship to sail on next. I know on the outside the two ships are pretty much identical. However, there are a few differences. I know the Dawn is going into drydock for 2 weeks in April (I'm assuming with 2 weeks, they'll make quite a few upgrades, maybe bring some stuff in line with the Pearl & Jewel). What are the good points and bad points of each ship? Which one would you recommend we sail on next? Thanks! :)

We have done both and the Dawn won hands down. Felt better, looked better, easier to get around, I feel as though the Jewel had been messed with and not for the better. If the Dawn has been docked recently I suspect it will add a few fresh changes that hopefully make it even better. Happy sailing whatever you decide. :)

I'd like to know about the Penthouse suite. Can't find much info anywhere, what's included, what if any reno's are being done, etc. Our cruise is in October and would like to know what to look forward to.

We had a mini suite last year on the Pearl. Apart from Priority Check In (not much use as we were checking in with others), and the nicer room, we had fruit basket and 2 glasses of bubbly on arrival. Canapes only on formal nights, but the best bit was special tender tickets for any time we were tendering off. That was actually quite useful. It was a bit of a come down from the Dawn a few years ago when we had a suite, and along with it free laundry, canapes every night, priority check in and tendering. Not sure if that was the difference between a suite and mini suite, or just P & O cutting back. Hard to know. But the extra real estate was nice even without the other tizzy bits.

Interesting on how thoughts can vary. Even my own - had a ball twice on the Dawn, and that feeling didn't translate to the Jewel - and maybe that was just my own mood, or perhaps certain subtleties that didn't quite measure up. Having said that, we recently did QM2, and as lovely as that was, I'm feeling wildly more excited about the upcoming Pearl trip - P & O are definitely more laid back, but right now, that's what I need, to kick back, relax and not care or fuss about much. Also, I've got to say, food wise, the P & O dining room food compares well - very well, with the QM2 dining room experience. Just a lot less cost - gotta love that, more $$ to cruise again :)

I've been on both, and after being on the Dawn, felt a bit flat about the Jewel, both in layout and the deconstructed (we felt spoiled) Dome on the Jewel, as well as generally the service was just not as good. That's only our perception. The Dome is admittedly a bit nightclubby but the kids club also used it for their Island night, and it's a lovely place to be in the daytime.

We've never been to Mare, but I loved Lifou, but obviously can't compare. Either way, I think you'd love it all - good luck if you haven't already made a decision :)

We've had a couple of experiences out of White Bay - not an ideal place to plonk a cruise departure point and then add in no real services by way of accommodation nor public transport. Unless you're a massive fan of walking, I'd avoid that too - way too far. The only realistic option is taxi, so you may as well stay somewhere central and have more to see before the cruise. HOWEVER after the cruise will offer options about getting out of there afterwards, and a wise option to take up. Good luck there :)

It may be a bit late now, but we have one on cruise to New Zealand, 175 Ball. DH noted it was on Friday 13th, (1+7+5=13), but that could be wildly wrong. I was curious too. Hope you have a ball (no pun intended).

Thankyou for posting these wonderful photos - it makes me all the more excited for our upcoming trip in March.

Many thanks :)

Thankyou for a beautifully put together and very interesting article. Thankyou :)

Hello lovely cruising people, I'm hoping for a little guidance. We are looking forward to our first cruise on QM2 in a few short weeks. I've read plenty on here regarding dress code, and it all seems fairly clear. However, I would like a little clarity regarding the two balls aboard our trip to New Zealand in March - specifically the 175 Ball, and the South Pacific Ball. DH pointed out that 1,7 & 5 add up to 13, and this will indeed take place on Friday 13th, but I was wondering if there is a difference in what is expected regarding each of the balls? Looking forward to hearing from those more experienced than myself.