Balmoral - mini cruise

[simonpjd]

Just returned from a mini cruise on Balmoral. Southampton / St Malo / Honfleur / Southampton. Basically a 2 day / 3 night cruise.

 

Balmoral. She is beginning to look her age but she was spotlessly clean and tidy. A proper ship. We were on her last year and had the same restaurant stewards and 'yes' they remembered us and our names.

Food excellent as always - we were up in the Avon - fantastic views. We eat out at Michelin starred places quite often and this obviously does not compare but it is fine. In fact I prefer this - fine dining as great but you wouldnt want to do it every night.

 

So how does it compare to a longer cruise.

Definitely a younger set of passengers. Even some families. Even a hen party. So a much younger feel on board. Also a lot of first timers trying it out.

Ship was late getting in from previous voyage so embarkation didnt start until 4. But everyone on and ship sailed just after 6 - well done Fred - tho lots of bags didnt find their owners until later.

One formal night - I dont know why they bother on such a short trip but most people made the effort and everyone looked very smart.

Entertainment - not great. Comedian would have been out of date 20 years ago (which is when he was on the Comedians on tv so I think you know what to expect). On board group do their best - enough said.

 

St Malo and Honfleur - well worth visiting. Trip to Mont St Michel fantastic. If you havent been - go. But lots and lots of steps and some of the oldies struggled.

 

Overall a great 'long weekend' and we cannot wait to get back to sea for a proper cruise. We still have the same old argument - which is better? P&O or Fred. We have decided there are pros and cons for both but we will do Fred if heading north and P&O everywhere else. But we are intrigued by Adonia. Has anyone been on her yet - is she better than Fred.

[EJNutz]

Hi simonpjd

 

Glad that you had a great mini cruise.

 

When you have a moment would you mind putting your review into our review section at http://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/#

 

Thanks

[Ft Lauderdale]

Looking for an old friend of mine, may be the Hotel Manager on the Balmoral, wondering if any one knows him, Hans van Welzen?