As you first board the Adonia, you get a feel of real luxury, yet also a feel of home, with its rich dark wood walls and tasteful furniture, its almost like a country house feel. As you start to get a feel for the ship, it is obvious she is not a large ship, however, the benefits that come with that are also transparent. We after a day, started recognising staff and fellow guests, and it does help you ‘settle-in’ quicker.The bars and lounges onboard are tastefully decorated, and there always seemed to be plenty of staff around, no matter where you went. The pool deck was really good, and although the pool is not the largest I have every seen, the way it is situated makes the whole area a sun trap, and keeps away any sea breezes.
There where 2 restaurants onboard, the more formal ‘Pacific’ was really nice, and when we came to be seated, I have never seen so many waiters looking after so few people, making you feel a bit special. As you would expect on a P&O cruise, the food was of a very high standard, and the choice was plentiful, everyone around us seemed very impressed with the whole dining experience.
The less formal ‘Conservatory’ on the Lido deck, which we chose for Breakfast and lunch was very cool and contemporary in feel, a little bit American / smart. The choice of the food was excellent, and once again, although this is buffet service, there where plenty of staff to clear away dishes etc, and this was done quickly and unobtrusive. The only downside I would say is that of a morning, the coffee making machines and orange juice dispensers are almost at the opposite side of the restaurant to the food, but this may have been rectified by now.
We did enjoy the Crows nest bar of an evening, which gives you a panoramic view as the ship glides forward, it really is spectacular, whilst the evening entertainment in the Curzon Lounge was excellent, with a intimate feel, you felt as though you where part of special night, every night.
The stateroom we had was an outside balcony, and whilst compact, it had everything you could ask for, including Sky News, BBC News and Sky Sports as part of the TV package, which at least kept me happy! The bathroom, was as is normal on cruise ships, compact, but I must say the shower was fantastic. Easy to control, and it had a real strong flow, that wakes you up in the morning!
Who would this ship appeal to? Well, to be honest, anyone who likes a feel of the finer things in life, with personal friendly service, and does not want to feel as though they are one of the masses, and likes to make great friends and feel the camaraderie a cruise holiday can bring. Would I go back? In a heart beat!
