cowandbucket

You do not walk “miles” to check in and wheelchairs and assistance was provided as you get out of your car. This misinformation puts people off. I’ve travelled many times from Southampton and the walk from check in is far further than at Portsmouth. I was there on the 28th April so my information is as upto date as it gets. I got on SOD which is still on its cruise.

Portsmouth now has a modern cruise terminal with all amenities perfectly suitable for small ships. I was there a week ago and it’s far easier to get there for 90% of the population. Tilbury and Dover are fine for those south of London. Most of us never want to go near London and the M25! Heathrow etc… it’s a nightmare.

Captain Volarić . There was a Captain’s reception but we didn’t attend so I assume he was there. Previous cruises on Saga, Cunard, P&O, Thomson the officers were seen around the ship and greeted one as they passed. Indeed on QM2 the Captain often toured the lounges and chatted. Not necessary I know but pleasant. This didn’t spoil the cruise and we have booked for next year (Summer Med) and now are confirmed saganauts . Truly hope they do not get taken over and changed in any way.

Disembarked at Portsmouth on Friday after a good cruise on Discovery. Wet Portugal, mostly wet Western Spain and France. The new port at Portsmouth is much more efficient and pleasant than Southampton and many times better than Dover which is a nightmare to travel to and from for most people (M25 !!!). Newcastle would be better. 🤣 We left the library at 9.30 as required and we’re sitting in our Titanmobile at 9.50. Then a pleasant nonstop (our choice) trip of 3.5 hours home. It took 5 plus hours from Dover last year. Interestingly, although we were supposed to share transport, we were sole occupants both going to Portsmouth and coming home. Imagine our surprise to meet up with old friends who live within half a mile from us who also travelled as sole occupants. Not complaining but not good planning. incidentally they were not many steamers put out as nearly the whole cruise was wet and windy and very few ventured out on the promenade deck whilst sailing. The crew were putting them out as we disembarked. Particular mention to the staff in the Grill for consistently providing great service and good food. One comment we heard from very many was that we couldn’t understand the Captain’s morning announcements. I’m afraid his English was very accented. We had no clue as to what weather to expect, disembarkation deck etc…. The one important announcement about passports to be surrendered was thankfully repeated by the Entertainments Director. I’m sure they knew of the possibility of misunderstanding. In 12 days we never saw him around the ship either unlike the friendly Canadian giant of last year.