This summer has been a unique one in the world of cruising, with cruises starting up again first as UK ‘staycation’ sailings and later on in the Mediterranean. We’ve seen those new to cruising take the chance to see what it’s all about, seasoned cruisers aboard cruise lines and ships they may have not tried before and new health and safety protocols rolled out to keep everyone safe.
Here are some of our customers’ feedback over the summer when it comes to new ships, the new cruise experience and the reality of cruising following the coronavirus pandemic.
Monica Jean
Cunard Queen Elizabeth
13th September 2021
We thoroughly enjoyed this cruise, and were extremely impressed with everything onboard. The friendliness, the cleanliness, the efficiency on embarkation and disembarkation. Helpful crew throughout. The entertainment, food, daily programme, in fact everything, could not be faulted. The organised tours were so enjoyable too. All carried out with much care due to the current restrictions. We have used Iglu for many years and in chatting to others about their travel agents, it seems Iglu comes out top. We were fully informed before travelling, so knew and understood everything. Thank you. We hope to use you again soon.
David Dean
Disney Cruise Line
24th September 2021
Just like to say thank you at Iglu for your assistance when booking our recent cruise. I only book through Iglu as I have not had any previous problems booking through you. The cruise was really great and the cruise staff were very friendly. The only thing I would improve is at embarkation where I believe children should have had a separate queue due to the lateral covid tests. It took about an hour to get through that bit but children are restless when queuing along with adults with no children, all in the same queue. Other than that all was great. Thanks again.
Vivien Williams
P&O Iona
7th September 2021
Fantastic to be back cruising and Iona is a shiny new ship with lots of places to sit and relax with a drink. The entertainment was quite good but I’ve seen much better and we didn’t get the trapeze as advertised on this cruise so a bit disappointing. The food was good and we liked the idea of several buffet restaurants which stop crowding in one place and seating is laid out well so never far to go to get your meal. Covid restrictions were not a problem and felt safe and relaxed.
Anna Bentley
MSC Virtuosa
7th September 2021
My family are new to this cruising business, but what a way to start. The ship is simply amazing and I still can’t believe this was on a ship. The room was great and the gentleman that looked after us was fantastic. He never seemed to stop working and always had a smile on his face. The room was spotless and very welcoming. The food in the Marketplace Buffet was our favourite, although we did try the Symphony restaurant a few times. The food in the Marketplace was fresh, with a fabulous assortment and something for everyone. Again, the crew worked so hard to look after us so very well. They were always lovely and more than happy to help. Andreas and his colleague in the Starship Club were simply brilliant. Always smiling, attentive and very good fun. They gave us that holiday spirit we needed. My only concern in this area was other cruise customers not respecting the rules and wearing a mask. There were quite a few of those so the staff had to deal with this - which is appreciated. All the facilities were fabulous, although we struggled to get a sun bed because of the number of reserved beds. We survived though, even if it is a little annoying. It would be good if beds weren’t reserved for the day with nobody on them. Overall we had the most fabulous break and I now want to book another. My son was nervous about 7 days on a ship but was in tears as he didn’t want to leave. My parents also thoroughly enjoyed themselves - it was new to them too.
John and Janet Paynton
P&O Britannia
29th August 2021
We really enjoyed the experience. Everything felt really Covid safe. The entertainment was very enjoyable. This is our first time with P&O and will do so again.
Denise Moore
Tradewind Voyages’ Golden Horizon
16th August 2021
I have to say Golden Horizon is a magnificent ship - extremely comfortable and the service and staff were excellent. It was most unfortunate that we had such strong winds at Cowes for the racing they only managed to get one shore party ashore, and we were anchored a long way from Cowes so could not really see what was happening ashore. For my part the main attraction was the Scilly Isles where we were able to take the shore trip and I was not disappointed. The return from the Scillies was almost completely done under sail which was great. I have to say that Golden Horizon was not built for Northern Europe waters, she needs to be in the Med or Caribbean in order to take advantage of the deck space and bar areas, and eating al fresco, something we were not able to do except wrapped up in coats etc.
Stewart Smith
Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady
16th August 2021
We’ve sailed with Azamara, Cunard, Holland America, NCL, Celebrity and Princess previously. As seasoned cruisers Scarlet Lady is certainly different but the demographics of the guests is not what was expected as a majority were 50+ on this sailing. Insisting on use of the App was a bit annoying as it’s very flakey and occasionally confusing but when it works it’s good. Pre-boarding was well organised with Covid antigen testing at a nearby location and then to port to unload and park. Scarlet Lady is certainly the largest ship we have sailed on and it took time to get used to the layout but it’s impressive and personally we liked the style as well. Our balcony cabin with a couple of chairs, table and bright red hammock on the balcony was a decent sized cabin. Technology is at the fore with tablet controls for the curtains, TV, lights and ‘mood style lighting’ all at the touch of a screen. Many reviews have mentioned the quality of the food and we are very impressed, possibly the best food we have ever eaten on a cruise ship. From small plates tapas style in the Dock House to great pasta in Extra Virgin, all served in a friendly and efficient manner. Tip - it’s important to get the main restaurants booked as soon as you get on board as there is limited seating in the evenings with time slots available. All in all, highly impressed!
Linda Cruikshank
P&O Britannia
31st July 2021
Returned to cruising last week on Britannia. It felt wonderful to be onboard. Smooth Covid testing and check in. Felt well organised on board with the safety protocols in place. Spa visits essential! Loved getting dressed up again - it’s been too long and they still fitted me which was a bonus! Great food - even LOST some weight - on a cruise!!! Fabulous wines. Love The Glasshouse! Can’t wait til my next one but have a few months to wait.
Kevin Baker
3rd August 2021
P&O Britannia
It was great to be back at sea. This was our second cruise aboard Britannia, and we had a good time despite the British weather. With the reduced passenger capacity on these sailings lift access was quick compared to pre covid. We were generally pleased with the improved safety measures. Well done P&O. Can't wait to stop wearing masks and to return to normal with free time ashore to ourselves on excursions in the future though! Dining-wise, the food’s quality and presentation was very good. We went to Sindhu and Peninsular for breakfast service and dinner. We noticed at breakfast, one morning eggs benedict was 1muffin and 1 egg, but another morning was 2. Tip - coffee in the Peninsular is very good, but really hot at Horizon! The Crows Nest is great with piano music and bar. Andy Foster was good to hear again. We can't wait to be with Iona in April!
