Recreation
Ventura offers all sorts of fun things to do and great things to see. The two-tiered Arena Theatre doubles up as a venue showcasing West End style shows, as well as classic and modern movies on a state of the art LED screen, or, for something more active, head to the Cirque deck where you can play sports like basketball, football and table tennis.
And then, of course, there are the pools. Ventura boasts 6 different pools and 6 whirlpools, including adult-only and child-friendly pools, plus even a pool with a retractable roof meaning it's possible to swim and play no matter what the weather has in store.
Inside, the ship also has an extensive art gallery, with up to 7,000 different pieces to peruse, as well as superb shopping opportunities. Guests can expect to see well-known, high-end brands including some of Britain's favourites like Cath Kidston, Radley, and various different gins.
Aside from the obvious things like watching a show, taking part in a trivia or dining, Ventura offers some fun and exciting, more unusual activities too such as:
Fruit Carving:
We all gasp with amazement when we walk into the buffet restaurant and see a face carved from watermelon or an animal made from bananas, and so P&O Cruises have made it possible for you to learn how to create them yourself. After a short introduction from one of the professional fruit carvers (aka a chef!), they go on to explain the techniques behind the carving before giving out tools and talking you through your creation. This is a really fun activity that you can share with friends and use to make table decorations for events and dinner parties.
Type of activity: Creative
Good for: Adults, Couples, Singles, Families
Cost: Complimentary
Wine Tasting
Set in Olly Smith’s Glass House, a small group will be gathered around a large table for an extensive wine tasting experience. A knowledgeable wine master conducts the event, answering any questions and enlightening guests on all sorts of interesting wine trivia. You’ll find out how different wines are made, what to pair them with, ways to drink them, and what to look for on a wine bottle. Learning these facts is not only interesting, but you can also use your new understanding when arranging a dinner party, or to impress your friends at the wine bar. But, most importantly, you will know exactly what to look for when choosing a wine and how to match it with your dish.
Type of activity: Informative
Good for: Adults, Groups, Couples, Singles
Cost: Complimentary
Dance Lessons
Have you always wanted to learn to dance but never had the time, funds or confidence? Many cruisers find that when they got onboard a ship they love to watch fellow guests showing off their moves on the dance floor, but they don’t know how to achieve such perfect coordination or know exactly how to move to each song themselves. If this is the case for you, make the most of onboard dance lessons! A cruise is a perfect opportunity to try one- you’re in the holiday mood (we’re always slightly more daring on holiday), nobody knows you, you don’t have to sign up for a course of lessons, you are with other people that have never danced, and you will be taught by a professional dancer chosen by P&O Cruises.
Type of activity: Learning something new
Good for: Adults, Groups, Couples, Singles
Cost: Complimentary
Shuffleboard
Shuffleboard is a popular American game that has slowly been introduced to the British crowd, especially cruisers. P&O Ventura has regular friendly and competitive shuffleboard competitions, and the opportunity to learn the game. Patient crew members will teach you how to play, and you can keep practising until you feel ready to enter a competition.
Type of activity: Learning something new, Competitive
Good for: Adults, Groups, Couples, Singles
Cost: Complimentary
Behind the Scenes Tour
Both well-seasoned cruisers and those new to the scene will no doubt, at some point, think about the behind-the-scenes operation at least once. From how the ship is maneuvered, where the crew live, the culinary operation, or how the engines work, it is certainly an incredible feat. If this side of things intrigues you, be sure to sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour. Hosted by a senior member of staff, you will be taken around the galley, behind the theatre and around the engine room before ending on the bridge with Champagne and a selection of snacks.
Type of activity: Exclusive
Good for: Adults, Groups, Singles, Families
Cost: Approx. £75 per person
Spa and fitness
Ventura is a haven of contentment. Her Oasis Spa, salon, and gymnasium on Deck 16 will be sure to pave the way to a greater sense of well-being. You can indulge in a luxurious range of treatments and opt for a new look, all in the safe hands of Ventura's skilled therapists and fitness experts.
Equipped with a thermal suite and an endless pool, Ventura's spa offers numerous ways to revitalise and invigorate. Presenting an interesting blend of ancient traditions, alternative therapies and modern, technological advancements, Ventura's spa has the added allure of sea views. So, all you need to do is relax and unwind. From a body wrap, to a makeover and a massage, Ventura's skilled therapists and beauticians will have you looking and feeling your very best.
