We Just Spent 14 Nights in THE MOST STUPID Cabin at Sea!!

[@Cruisewith]

Head to squarespace.com/benanddavid to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code benanddavid

[@brigidconroy2111]

Great vid but what you call cost reads claustrophobic 😞

[@1HonestAbe]

I like watching your reviews but right at the beginning... there was something weird or odd. About the comment of the ' pillows '. You said the Ship said you were told you couldn't request some pillows. Were you going to request some SPECIAL pillows? There were 3 of each on both sides of the bed already. You can only use 1 of them so you have 2 extras. WHY did you need MORE pillows?

[@janhd465]

The total lack of privacy in a balcony cabin is Horrific! Finding dirty clothes from previous guest is unforgivable! Congrats for insisting on a total deep clean of your cabin.

[@ozymandias7940]

I was recently talking to a lovely stateroom attendant who gave me a bit of gossip. Prior to cleaning the staterooms, they are working in either the buffet or main dining room from about 05:30am, then have to go change into their stateroom cleaning attire. She told me that they have a 3.5hr window (about 210min) to clean 25 staterooms each, every day. That works out at just 8.5min per stateroom. Now, she said it takes about 2min to make a bed/s & 4-5min to change the sheets every other day. That only leaves about 4min to vacuum, wipe down surfaces, clean the bathroom, replace towels, clean the balcony if there is one, and if it is a suite, it is usually much bigger so things simply don't get done every day. After their cleaning duties are done, they get changed again and go straight back to the buffet for lunch service, then have their break. Couple of hours off in the mid afternoon, then start the dinner shifts, then turn down services if they still do them. If that's not bad enough, they have to find time to do their own laundry, iron their uniforms, sleep, keep in touch with family overseas etc. They are literally doing that every day, 7 days a week for the duration of their 6-8mths contract. Absolutely insane, you couldn't pay me enough to do that every day.

[@evercuriousmichelle]

Thank you, this needs to be shouted from the rooftops! Cruises have got to stop treating their staff so poorly!

[@largol33t1]

Thank you for mentioning this. I will avoid this cruise line. They clearly don't know what they're doing. I wouldn't expect the room to be CLOSE to acceptable if they make demands like that on their overworked staff...

[@egregal344]

wowza! ty for sharing- i hope people will tip more too- i have had a few conversations with my entitled friends about tipping people who work so hard- ty for sharing - respect for all workers

[@nursynikki]

I make my own bed, I never go to bed dirty, I keep the bathroom wiped down, If there is more than one trash can, I put it together. I can use my towel like I do at home. No one changes their towels every other day. Basically, be an adult. If at least 20 percent of the passengers would do this, the staff would not be overworked. 🎉

[@skyes7369]

I used to work in hospo (land based, not on cruises). Now when I’m travelling I only request one refresh every three days because I know that the housekeepers get very little time to turn over rooms let alone refreshes for in house guests. It seems to be a lot worse for cruise crew! First cruise coming up later in the year so I’ll be doing the same so the cabin attendant can skip our room.

[@lyannastarkweather]

I think the reason they didn’t advertise this cabin as “obstructed view” is because YOU are the view!!! That balcony is right in the middle of the action. It’s like having your porch open up directly onto a busy street. I’d be worried about someone climbing over the glass into my cabin.

[@ellaeadig263]

That was my thinking too! When they were looking at the pros and saying it's safer for kids because if they climb out they can only get to the promenade, all I could think was "Yeah but somebody could climb IN while my kids are sleeping!"

[@machellep1]

They actually had that happen ! A young woman and her mother had a drunk man try to break in through the balcony

[@crashedherparty]

The worst part about complaining is when you KNOW that it's not usually the individual employee's problem, it's the problem of the company cutting corners to save money... but the employee is likely the one who will get in trouble for it. So unfortunate!

[@Cruisewith]

Absolutely 👍 we stressed to the manager it’s not the employees fault and that they clearly have no time to clean!

[@bridgetmurphyv]

​@@Cruisewithwhich p&o ship were you on btw this was a shocker 😮

[@suejames3208]

@@bridgetmurphyv Arvia

[@TheJohnebey]

growing up in the service industry, I have had my fair share of the back side of the hand so to speak. I got over it but remember it well.

[@sherylbridle9158]

Right on guys. The cleaner is not to blame. P &o must be the blame and should explain. Ridiculous cabin view. But I enjoy your vlog regardless😊😊😊

[@paulasimson4939]

What absolutely insane decisions by P&O regarding the cabin design. From the narrowness of the room, to the promenade deck right outside - just wow! And the condition of the cabin was truly revolting. That buildup of dust happened over months, not days. I really feel sorry for the cabin stewards, trying to get too much done, with not nearly enough time. That's on the company, not the crew. It must be demoralizing for them trying to do their jobs.

[@Stephanie-we5ep]

It's just crazy! At a time when cruise ships are making serious bank, the staff loads are increasing while the staff numbers are decreasing. The cabin stewards are given 5 hrs to do all the cabins?! 😮 That's just crazy!

[@gigi9301]

I can't Believe the company isn't smart enough to know the names of these youtubers and so forth and well Everyone who pays for any room or suite should expect to get what was advertised such as the pillow menu and a Clean Room for starters.

[@garyhunt4342]

£4000 for a dirty uncleaned room. But are you surprised with P+O who are cutting costs everywhere to hike up profits for shareholders. Including selling suite balcony units that aren’t. I hope you get your money back. People need to show this company how badly run it is by booking on other cruise lines that offer a decent service. Blimey. Well done you for highlighting this rip off.

[@nedflanders3769]

Well I’ve been planning a transatlantic cruise with 7, yes seven other friends. I will not be going on P&O, a line I was previously considering.

[@aphelion4616]

@@gigi9301 Actually, I would rather the companies NOT recognize travel vloggers names and such. The reason being videos like this actually. because, this way, they do things business as usual and you get the real tea on whether it's good or bad. I'm truly sorry they had to deal with it, but they gave us the true tea on what happened this way as well and we can now make the informed decisions we need to when planning a similar trip!!!

[@emilygrantham9654]

We absolutely HATED our inside cabin on Arvia. It was genuinely filthy; dust everywhere, bits in the carpet, hairs in the bathroom and we even found tablets on the bedside table. It was so tiny, barely even suitable for 2, throw a baby, travel cot and pram into the mix, we literally lived on the bed for 2 weeks. Complete lack of storage space or floor space. And we’re honestly not usually ones to complain. I feel like they just crammed as many cabins possible onto this ship. The prom ‘balconies’ we just couldn’t believe walking past them 🤣 Love you two and your videos! X

[@observerobserver797]

This is without a doubt the best feel-good channel on KZbin, nothing even comes close.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

Ben and David do an excellent job of honest reviews without being mean or whiny. I imagine they have some choice words between themselves, off camera. A saint couldn't keep their composure with the state of that cabin.

[@GarbageMan2025]

💯

[@sweethartjen]

I don't even see how the cruise line can call those "balconies" when they're really just part of the deck with semi-private walls. Thank you for your honest and helpful reviews, Ben and David! (I think I've said this before and I'll probably say it again - Ya'll are adorable!)

[@elaineeddy1845]

I'm not sure I know why they called it a suite. You're supposed to get more room with a suite and other than that conservatory I saw no evidence of it being roomy.

[@breadyegg]

Yeah, they didn't think it through. The design choice was made in order to have that outside promenade (most p&o are covered by the deck above). If you pay the extra to be able to choose your room, you can avoid them, but on the Saver fare if you ended up with this expecting a cabin you'd be less than impressed! The seats directly outside the "balcony" make my blood boil.

[@isabellind1292]

@@breadyegg We took a cruise to Alaska aboard a mid-sized cruise ship and luckily we had a private balcony because some of the pricier suites were situated on the promenade deck so that when they opened their view door, they had no privacy from the passengers walking along the promenade. Give me me a private balcony. I want to be alone w/the sea.

[@SheSailsAway]

Yikes on that dust level! Makes you wonder about what you CAN'T see. 😮 Thank you for this. Love your videos.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

Exactly.

[@missy4663]

If you used one of those blue lights that highlight stains etc you would not want to step through that front door. It has been done and it can put you off for life!

[@keawarren]

I would have felt itchy the entire time. What a negative experience when going on vacation.

[@SaltyGreene]

@@missy4663OMG yes! Shine a black light on the bathroom wall! I bet that alone will make you seasick.

[@tinaseaboch1364]

Yeah imagine dust… poor us on a beautiful cruise being waiting on..

[@SwindonRunner]

That cabin is an absolute deal breaker. That would have ruined my holiday if I had stayed in it.

[@carolr9301]

You choose to stay in cabins like these.

[@krispressler1005]

That cabin design is insane. For a suite you really would expect more privacy.

[@isabellind1292]

I'd be more afraid that someone was going to drop something on my head from the copious floors above me as I tried to relax on my balcony. At least put a roof over it! What view would that restrict for the people above except the view of the people on that balcony.

[@paulettemcwaters8557]

The cruise lines have reduced the number of room stewards dramatically since we started cruisng many years ago. It is a shame because the stewards work so hard but it is impossible to get every room spotless in the amount of time they are given...good for you for not blaming them...

[@phillipdingeldein4072]

A visit with you lads was just what I needed today. Just took the Christmas decor down and I was kinda sad. Thanks for the good-hearted chuckles!

[@Lovesapuzzle]

Yes. I'm looking ahead to Spring. The Christmas decor is packed away. Is it too early to bring out the Easter bunnies?

[@gigi9301]

@@Lovesapuzzle Haha!! Just so you know, not Everyone loves those bunnies. They are cute, but they dig holes under my fences, paw up my bulbs, and drive my cat bananas. One of my boyfriends wanted to bring over his gun and start shooting at them in my backyard I said What No bye

[@Lovesapuzzle]

The bunnies I bring out are decorative, not live. I have no control over the wild ones, outdoors. My gardens usually end up a bunny buffet. It is frustrating but, I get over it.@@gigi9301

[@janmattinson7425]

Hmmmmm not worth the extra money for a suite I think. Will stick to outside cabins x

[@andrewmcmillan229]

Why would you ever put cabins on the promenade deck? Absolutely insane design decision. On the NCL Encore the promenade deck is lined with the bars and specialty restaurants so they can have indoor/outdoor spaces and it was my favorite part of the ship, this looks like it would just be awkward for both the people in the cabins and the people on the deck.

[@maryswanson9982]

We had one. It was hysterical, watching all the different legs going past the window.

[@Skittl1321]

The encore has cabins on that deck. They are just very far forward, so the balconies are not on the waterfront. I stayed in one, it was a fabulous location except very very loud with music from the beatles and choir of man shows and rehearsals, and from the District Brew House. The hallway was also super cold when the bow was open in glacier bay.

[@carolr9301]

Having cabins on the promenade deck isn’t new. There are plenty of older ships that have cabins that go straight onto a promenade deck, at least the Excellence class of ship have elevated balconies.

[@litabelaqua]

That level of dirt in the cabin is unbelievable , the one thing that strikes me about cruise ships is how clean they are. So glad this got taken seriously

[@rentechpad]

One problem with cruises that have room cleaning cut off by noon, and only clean once a day, so staff can have free time is when you have a passenger who enjoys late nights and rarely allows for cabin cleaning. Usually the room cleaninh schedule has the maid do the main things, bed made, towel change, wipe down, usually things like dusting, cleaning of snack, coffee abd refrigerator area and so on,are only scheduled once or twice during the cruise. If the cleaner cannot get in on those days, those things do not get done and often are not done between debarcation and new passengers loading as its assumed that was all done on schedule.

[@JohnSmith-ef8nr]

Not on MSC, they clean my cabin twice a day even when I didn't want them to, in the evening they even turn the sheets down. Thay even shampooed the carpets. At 3 in the morning I went to the bathroom, and when I came out the bed was made. P&O only do once a day at a time slot, I found there cabins dirty with old carpets.

[@TheHusbros]

P&O need to immediately rebrand those all those deck 8 balconies with fancy language like “conservatory mini suite with extended promenade terrace view”. Replace the closest row of deck chairs with a gorgeous row of tall, real boxwood planters to create an additional small, natural barrier between the guest and promenade inhabitants.. then, add a long sunshade for the exposed deck 8 balconies to help obscure the sun AND any overhead onlookers from decks above lol. Also a small 32” Samsung frame-style TV (or similar vibe) in the conservatory space would go perfectly with the aesthetic and be a discrete & practical addition. I really think those minor fixes would insanely help this cabin category experience. P&O’s gotta do something 😳

[@breadyegg]

A new category other than "balcony", with reduced prices is a great idea. It's misselling as it stands.

[@dak_alwaystravels9213]

This dark cabin is basically an interior room, with a bonus room conservatory and guaranteed deck chairs 😂

[@mikemotorbike4283]

I kinda like it; wish the frosted glass retracted, to make a cafe feel. My private cafe seating for people watching. I could offer beautiful strangers drinks and let them read my mind.

[@xkr510]

Not a chance I’d book that ship. Way too many people in the first place but the cabin is a shocker.

[@alisong2328]

You two are normally pretty forgiving so I know if you are complaining, things must be pretty bad. I love your reviews - I feel like I’m there cruising with you! 🚢⚓️

[@CarolMortensen-e2b]

These guys are so much fun. I've never cruised but I feel like I have with the many, many videos I have watched of this enjoyable couple.

[@SpeedNoodles]

I appreciate your honest (and always entertaining) review! Happy New Year!

[@elaineedwards2530]

Hot Tip! Buy the laundry detergent that is earth friendly and they usually come in a flat compact sheet-like square. Super easy for packing.

[@StillPooh62]

David used the term boudoir correctly to indicate the bedroom. 😎

[@blobalina]

I think maybe he was thinking of bidet 🤣

[@lindah.1104]

@@blobalinaYes, Ben must have been thinking “bidet “! 🙂

[@sagibrasil]

Originally, the boudoir was neither bedroom nor bathroom. It was a woman's dressing/makeup/etc room between the two (for the french upperclass)

[@RhymesWithSpark]

Holy crap…. I cannot believe that they have these types of cabins. Honestly, I am sitting here, jaw agape, staring at your review of this cabin. Thank you to you both for staying in this cabin and providing us with this review. I am sorry to hear that you had this experience.

[@theresamnsota3925]

You mentioned having a fan for noise to help sleep, but I have another tip if you don’t have space to bring a fan. If you have an iPhone, open Settings tap on Accessibility swipe down to the Hearing options and tap on Audio then tap on Background Sounds. Choose your preferred sound. Then go back to the main Accessibility Settings page and scroll down to Accessibility Shortcut. Tap on Background Sound so it has a check mark next to it. Now you can quickly turn the sound off/on with a triple click of your Side Button or Home Button (depending on model). You don’t need a wifi connection for the sound. Hope that helps!

[@davidc5191]

Just put towels on the seats in front of your balcony to reserve them so no one sits there.

[@suejames3208]

That is brilliant annd I realise very tongue in cheek. I'm not sure non-Europeans will understand the humour.

[@Bombabingbong66]

Oh no, r u German ?

[@ruthshaw4163]

Gorgeous decor, but someone with a walker could not even get in the room! That’s ridiculous.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

The hanging items in the entry hall would annoy me. I want to walk easily into my cabin, not push my way in.

[@ashleighjaimaosborne3966]

@@Lovesapuzzleagreed. With the closet space, why would they do that.

[@susanbolton-hk5yn]

Princess cruise cabins are far worse

[@grumpygramps1451]

Some people make it their mission to find a fault and if they can’t find one, create one.

[@Donna-zc9ii]

Do cruise ships have designated rooms for handicapped people, like with Wheel chair or walker.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

Oh my, yes. A big tip for a pleasurable cruise is to keep your cabin tidy. It is a limited space and clutter will shrink it. I appreciate that my cabin steward has a lot to do every day so, if I can minimize their work in my cabin, I don't feel bad if I ask them for something extra.

[@lorrainebennett7528]

Same, I keep my cabin super tidy and make my own bed too. They have enough to do.

[@motherofbeagles8532]

Ben and David, it is indeed disturbing that the cabin was that filthy considering the Rona was raging only a couple years ago and is still out there, along with other germs. In addition, dust and hair are allergens that can cause a lot of discomfort.

[@AronRoss72]

Love this video guys! I am unfamiliar with P&O and felt like I was getting a crash course. This video was informative and despite the terrible layout/placement of the cabin, the dirt and the dirty clothes, you guys were able to still enjoy and make us laugh. I don't blame you at all for feeling like the price was not worth the cabin. I would not be happy at all. 155 days until the group cruise!!!

[@TropicLuv]

I do really like the conservatory room. I think I’d spend most of my time in there. The dirt and dirty laundry… OMG NO! That really surprised me and made me wonder what else was in there that you couldn’t see 😝😜

[@jenna6149]

I wondered what a black light would show was left behind! 😢

[@shaunareeves1911]

My dad went on the P&O Iona last year. He was in an inside cabin but from what he said and the photos I think he was a lot better off! Quiet, normal sized (no odd narrowness) and decor was nice and bright (taking into account being an inside). Solo he got that for £700 for 14 nights...

[@cathyh1680]

They have solo fares? Do you mind sharing what ports that cruise went to?

[@shaunareeves1911]

​​@@cathyh1680He left from Southampton and visited Vigo, Gibraltar, Alicante, Barcelona, Cadiz and Lisbon. It was called a saver fare (inside cabin). Not sure if it's just Iona that had cabins set aside for singles? I had a quick check and seems like they have 22 set aside for solo travellers. He booked through travel counsellors (one from Emma Cruises) but I found them by myself when I knew where to look! Just to add he got that during Black Friday '22 but I looked it up outside that date and it was still very reasonable - time of year probably helped!

[@GraceVictoria]

We had a conservatory balcony on the dec above on Iona and was completely fine. I do agree that this design is very random as people can walk past. We got a free upgrade from a balcony to a CMS but would definitely not have paid for it! X Edit: our room was a lot bigger than this on deck 8 and no way as narrow as that!

[@makisprodromou2057]

As always, enjoyed this video immensely. You both are so polite even while pointing out what is not acceptable, which is important to your viewers. I have heard many unfavourable reviews on P&O and said I'd never cruise with them. But I then looked up a Northern Lights cruise and they were the most affordable. I was ready to book but luckily saw many reviews on the very ship I would be going on...I won't repeat but I didn't book. I'm now looking into another cruise line. This video just confirmed what I heard. Love you guys!

[@traceybartlam7737]

It’s a line I’ve never wanted to cruise on. I’ve seen too many issues of cost cutting and bad management decisions (one of the most recent being the use of Maleth and the audacity to suggest it’s on a par with lines such as BA, Virgin or TUI and the way that was handled!

[@jeannecrawford6324]

Despite all the drawbacks that have already been mentioned, no one has really brought up the guaranteed cabin. It's a sort of gamble in letting the cruise line select a cabin for you in that you might just get upgraded to a nicer cabin than the type you were booking. In that case, it's a definite advantage. However, you might also find yourself in a cabin that you would never have selected if you'd chose to select your own cabin. When I started cruising, I was advised to pick the middle/middle meaning the center of the ship for the least amount of movement as well as being sure to select one not over or under restaurants, bars, casinos or any other noisy area. That advice was perfect. I'm not sure how much money you save by going with a guaranteed cabin, but I'm not much of a risk-taker. I'm sorry that your cabin was not ideal by any stretch of the imagination, Ben & David. It had to have put a damper on your cruise. I wish you wonderful times on your upcoming cruises.

[@paulgerrard9227]

Be wary of apparent upgrades. Yes they can and often do...but usually with a catch. Under a pool deck, near a lift, above or below public areas and...obstructed view. I never gamble on choice of cabin to bypass a week or two being annoyed.

[@Michele-ot8bh]

My goodness, before I saw your video I would never have contemplated crushing with P&O. Especially not now. Your comments are absolutely fair and just. I do really appreciate your posts.

[@TheOnlyLilithcat]

It's a shame about the location, because that conservatory is pretty fabulous.

[@Snapepet]

I've never been lucky enough to go on a cruise-but with you kind gentlemen, I almost feel like I have been on one! You are both so kind and informative and interesting! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us!

[@flaviamcfatridge592]

You guys are my favorite cruise reviewers!You give great reviews covering everything I want to know.

[@linnerlu]

My cruising days are over, so I “fantasy cruise” with you guys. Thank you for giving us such honest, yet humorous reviews and commentary. I just love you both! 🎉

[@kimbell1141]

I came down with Covid four days ago and since I couldn’t go anywhere and felt awful, I started searching the Internet and ran across the both of you. I just wanted to say thank you you made my days go faster and seem a little brighter. I enjoyed watching you both very very much. Now here I am 60 and never thought about it before but now I would love to go on a cruiseI!! am now a subscriber. 😊

[@kevinmoley1955]

So sorry to hear about your cabin and the horrible balcony. However, thank you for the laughs. I nearly fell out of my chair with your head massages for extra cash from your balcony. It could come in handy.

[@edwardulrich1515]

Happy New Year, Ben and David! 🥂🍾 I hope your future 2024 cruises are more enjoyable than the mixed bag of pluses and minuses you encountered on this cruise. Cheers, lads!

[@Cruisewith]

Happy new year!

[@Cindy-by3ho]

I don’t think I will ever go on a cruise but I love watching your videos. You both have great personalities and a good sense of humour! Your videos are good quality and very informative. Thank you for your work.❤

[@kennixox262]

I'm a real stickler for quality illumination. I really like the LED night light and would like to see an additional one under the bathroom countertop to light a soft glow at night in order for one to find their way. Saying that, the nightlight should be red/amber and not white as shown. Easier on the eyes at night. Interesting cabin layout.

[@ShelterCats]

So glad you guys are back!!! Hope you both had a wonderful holiday. That balcony though. Yikes. Sorry you had that experience.

[@ericjenjohnson]

I have never been on a cruise but thank you for introducing me to the world of cruises! I have also tried to watch other cruise vloggers on KZbin but just can’t. Your videos are so fantastic and no else one even comes close to the content you produce and share with us! Thank you so much for everything you do!

[@barbp8618]

Love you guys. Always appreciate your honest reviews💗

[@lornas_corner]

You were bang on in this review. We were on Iona - which also had similar cabins - and we were horrified by them. (We were not in one, just looking at them was bad enough!). To think you paid mini-suite prices for this is just awful… especially as it was then dirty on arrival 🤢 I am not a fan of these big P&O ships, they are all about size and lack thought about the actual spaces and the people who pay to use them, and nowhere near enough staff anywhere, in our experience.

[@chelseeez]

this ship is a good lesson in, “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it!” classic cruise ship design makes sense when you see stuff like this lol

[@MJC1124]

I was in an inside cabin on P&O's Iona last year. While it was just about ok for one, I would not have liked to share it with someone else becauise it was too small. There was only space for one uncomfortable chair. P&O is in danger of harming the brand with its desire to cram in as many cabins as possible.

[@nancycurtis3964]

Brutal review, but deserved by P&O.

[@AnnieMP2829]

I love your channel!! My spouse & I have never taken a cruise. Your videos help so much as well as make me chuckle & I am forever grateful.❤🎉😊

[@Cruisewith]

So glad! ❤️

[@olivia94tennis]

It’s a shame the mini suites don’t have the curtain divider and bath in the bathroom like on Britannia/Azura. Makes it a lot more family friendly. I also found on Iona that they would not make the sofa into a bed on an evening unless you left the ‘make up’ magnet on the door. We forgot on the last night and I had to figure out how make my bed up at 1am 😂

[@beachdweller3378]

That room looked awesome at first then I thought the frosted glass on the balcony was a negative but as you moved outside now i know why they frosted it and my god that is a lot of deck space outside the room. Very cool concept but inadequate execution and location.

[@volrathy1]

I don't think there is anything wrong with the execution or location the only thing wrong is the price remove the coffee machine sell it as a "conservatory balcony (obstructed view)" and reduce the price in half there is no way this should be sold at the full price of a mini suite

[@juliemark5764]

That balcony is crazy. I would never open the curtains so it might as well be an inside cabin.

[@stevenmix711]

I’m so addicted to your videos. I certainly can’t afford to cruise though but, it’s sure fun to watch.

[@marilynwhaley1913]

Great review!!...as always thanks...love you guys! .... we had a "lanai" cabin once on Holland American, my sister's husband booked it and they thought it'd be great!...it was right on the Promenade!... couldn't ever really open our curtains!... and it was smaller than the balcony cabins... but.. we were going around Cape Horn, and it was great when we needed to get out to the rail fast..so on that cruise it was OK, wouldn't have liked it if we wanted to spend time on our "balcony" ..the "balcony" was two deck chairs in front of our sliding doors and we often found people there lounging!!!

[@DonaldClark-xp3tp]

Glad we watched this. We had thought about booking a P&O cruise. But after seeing the cabin and its conditions, we have decided to go with another line.

[@EmmaMorgan09]

We were on deck 9. Loved our balcony. The conservatory worked for us as I snore. BADLY! I slept in the conservatory and my husband slept in the bed. I loved it. A fab, comfy place to sleep. Especially as I need a firm mattress. Loved our conservatory suite. X

[@samanthaspringman5527]

I would have been throwing good old fashioned hissy fits. It's insane to charge those prices for filth and no privacy. Not to mention dark rooms in daylight with no view. I'm angry on your behalf. Anybody who got duped into paying those prices for that really. Shame on the company.

[@susantownsend8397]

I love the idea of the room connected to the balcony, sort of like having a balcony, but the lack of privacy is a deal breaker for me.

[@cheersforears3577]

Dirty room happened to us on the Disney Fantasy in 2022 , we found old sweets and sweety papers and dirty socks behind the curtains by the window. Totally understand how you felt guys . Not a nice situation at all

[@ameliasmart119]

Wow that is wild! When the video first started I thought you were in an inside cabin because the lighting and how dark the room seemed. I appreciate the honest review.

[@ruthshaw4163]

Sorry for another post but I have to comment on the conservatory/balcony. I would be livid if assigned that cabin and doubly so with the condition when you arrived. Absolutely awful. Thanks for another brilliant review, but I think I will skip P&O!

[@kamelhaj6850]

Thank you for your honest review of this cabin. Hard to believe they call it a suite! Sorry that you had to go through this. Btw, I love the humor you two always demonstrate!

[@trilulilu66]

Recently discovered your channel. Love travelling through you guys! Keep the good work up. People dont realise the amount of work that goes into these videos. Good job!!!!

[@tonileatassie]

Love that you’ve been so honest about room and lack of privacy. Which deck and cabin other than this have you traveled in and recommend???? Or have you not returned to try again in another cabin?????? Interested to know.

[@Niallisababe1]

My claustrophobia could never. I'd be hyperventilating hourly. And dont even get me started about that "balcony" situation. Very disappointing

[@mairimawn6417]

We travelled on P&O earlier this year with our grandson and there was plenty of space for all we had and promenade deck was fabulous plenty of things to do. Close to everything but no noise

[@misslady582]

I love your videos. This channel is on my homework list as I try to save for my first cruise. I appreciate the note about the darkness in the room. As a person who suffers with depression.... the lack of natural light in my room would have been rough on me. Also finding people sitting in front of my "balcony" would have had me so stressed out. I heard a story about a women on a different cruise line with this style suit. Apparently a drunk man made it into her suit while she was in the shower. She thought the door was locked but it was not. I didn't remember if the lock was broken or operator error. Still her story and this video is all I needed to hear for me to flat out never wish to try these suits. Especially for that much money. No way.

[@karend169]

This is why when my husband and I go on vacation, we always clean the place top to bottom. We also bring our own bedding. It makes us feel better.

[@differentperspective4124]

Don’t apologize for insisting that your cabin be cleaned! That is disgusting. They should compensate you Big Time.

[@MICHELLE-gu2qc]

Great review guys. I loved your bags when packing. I agree these mini suites are a horrible idea especially for the price. It reminds me of a corporate box at a sports event. I would hate the lack of privacy. In regards to cleaning rooms. I worked briefly as a room steward in 5 star resort. I quit because of the lack of time to clean properly. You were given 5 minutes for a room. That's including everything bathroom, mirrors, bed splitting the beds, restocking teas,coffee,drink bar, mirrors and vacuum. It is impossible to clean properly in 5 minutes. Companies need to pull their Greedy finger out of their bums so things are done properly and it's clean. It makes you wonder why is gastrointestinal problems so common on cruises.

[@happytraveller2122]

Wow. That’s shocking. And that balcony thing is just the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.

[@mikemotorbike4283]

The glass swivels aside for a "Nails by Charlene" sign...done in the conservatory. Waiting area on balcony. Next!

[@shaynetaylor8555]

We just got off our first P&O after our 13th cruise with other companies that will be our last time sailing with them they seem to have things very wrong, our cabin was dirty my husband went around cleaning it

[@ellaeadig263]

The dark cabins would actually suit us fine as my husband has a disability that means he needs to sleep in the day. But, I can definitely see how most people would hate it!

[@FraserAtSea]

I’ve always been AMAZED at these cabins. I recently cruised on Costa Smeralda and Toscana (the same ship class as this), and they’ve moved the buffet down to this deck, which cleverly means there’s very few of the highly controversial balcony cabins like this on there. I’ll be intrigued to see if the plan of this ship changes further down the line - people really don’t seem to like it!

[@mikeyinthecity]

That "after" cabin for the end of your cruise is a great deal when you consider taxis to and from a "day hotel" before your evening flight. Same price almost!

[@suzywong7067]

We stayed in a mini-suite on the Arvia last September. Due to the agent giving us the wrong deck plan (Iona) we didn't know until we arrived that our mini-suite was bang opposite a whirlpool (obstructed view). It was a special birthday cruise so we were very disappointed and apprehensive. However, the balcony being on the promenade was not a problem for us ... we enjoyed saying good morning to the folk who passed ... and only a few are tall enough to see over but nobody ever intruded. The glass doors are tinted so nobody can see inside the cabin. We worried that children would be noisy when using the whirlpool but this never happened (TIP we sailed out the first week of September, which is the first week of the new school year, so there were very few children onboard as this is the most unlikely week for parents to take their children out of school). If you have booked a mini suite on the promenade deck you may be like us and find it not to be a problem. The cabin was clean and very comfortable. Enjoy your holiday.

[@janetwhooley2085]

We had no problems at all, loved the room, conservatory and balcony. We’re going again this year for the 3rd time in a mini suite room and can’t wait. 😊

[@soniauk4284]

I used to get my extra tea,coffee, milk and sugar from the market place on MSC - used to fill a plastic bottle with milk for my room fridge. The suite looks so lovely and calming 😍 I'm off on Sky Princess this year 🙌🙌

[@Love2Cruise]

Thank you, Ben & David, for your sacrifice. We’ll definitely avoid this type of cabins on any cruise ships that have them!

[@lauraw2074]

I would be furious too about the balcony situation especially considering how much the cabin cost !

[@lorettachapman4244]

WOW that sure was a weird cabin, I would not like that!! Other wise nice looking room!!

[@Pirtosi]

The hot tub etc in front of you is bad enough, but the final straw for me to complain is the Lounge Chairs placed directly at your railing!! Yikes!

[@Holabella]

You make some of the best cruise content, love you guys

[@attorneycarissa]

Love your honesty and your videos! ❤

[@pamw565]

More issues I noticed 1)no roof over your balcony so if raining or very hot you wouldn’t want to sit outside. 2)As well as you balcony opening onto deck eight everyone above you can see straight onto your balcony so absolutely no privacy unless you keep your doors and curtains closed. Whoever came up with this design should be fired.

[@christineainslie4239]

Wow crazy! Happy New Year guys from Canada! I can't believe they would position those mini suites like that. No privacy, no views! That being said, they did remind me of the mini suites on Princess, re everybody being able to look down on you from above. Also from what I have seen they look like they are very similar to the new Reserve Collection Cabana mini suites on the new Sun and Star Princess. What you are calling a conservatory, will be the cabana area, with an extra TV on the Sun and the Star. There will be a Cabana deck, where these Cabana suites will look out over a deck for these suite guests only. However as in your case, you won't have a direct sea view from your suite as it will look out on this deck, and I imagine privacy will be an issue as people will still be walking around on the deck. I think there are more traditional Cabana reserve collection mini suites available which will look directly out to sea-which I would love to try. Can't wait for the new Princess ships to sail! Happy cruising guys, fair wind and following seas! Cheers!

[@brucemoe9180]

Keep up the great videos... My wife and I love the way you "tell it like it is" on all these cruise ships...gives the ship's hierarchies something to watch and hopefully try to address some if not all of these deficiencies you two find on these ships...You do it so well and with a dose of good, old fashioned British humor!! Keep up the good work and Anchors Aweigh!!

[@barryusa5]

Interesting cabin review. Sailed on many cruise ships, including river cruise ships which are much smaller. Never saw a balcony cabin ( Varanda) that faces the deck. Usually your balcony is located at the edge for privacy. As for the room darkness. The cabin doors and windows equipped with tinted glass for privacy.you can look outside of your cabin, but no one can view the inside .

[@lizcademy4809]

The way the mirrored film works is those on the darker side can see through; those on the lighter side can't see through. Great when you're in the darker room during the day, but at night, you're on the lighter side and everyone outside can see in. Not for me. But I have no interest in larger ships anyway.

[@danasandoval624]

Guys you can make your own crease release spray very inexpensively. Get a bottle of fabric softener an empty spray bottle, put 3/4 fabric softner in the spray bottle & add water to fill it up. You can use less fabric softener if you wish, I like mine strong. Shake up & use to release wrinkles on your clothes, I also spray it on furniture to give it a fresh up & nice smell. It’s so much cheaper to make your own & it works better than the premade you purchase. Thanks for the lovely video & I would be very upset with my cabin being directly on the promenade with people practically on your balcony with you & I expect to see the ocean from my balcony. I was wondering if the round piece of art gray color with raised flowers in the room before your balcony was removable, it was lovely & I would love to have it.😳 It was large but possibly if placed right it would fit in my luggage.🤣😳 I really wouldn’t take it but I did love that art in the pre-balcony room. Thanks again!

[@dominickjvlogs]

Well beats being in 3 hours of daily traffic like I have for my day job! 😂❤

[@veronicaescobedo6441]

Happy New! Hopefully you had an amazing break. During Christmas, I convinced my sister to go on a cruise with me this year and now she is watching your Channel ❤ cheers 🥂

[@Cruisewith]

Thank you! You too! Hope you have a great cruise!

[@pare20]

Sounds like y’all deserved a free cruise or at least a free upgrade!

[@yoncbwl2738]

My Son recently introduced me to you channel and I am having so much fun following your adventures. Thanks for sharing with us all.

[@achimidler8015]

Imagine you have the cabin with the whirlpool right in front of you. 😱

[@davidmarsden305]

Yep, the cabin is a bit strange, think i would rather just book a regular cabin than this type

[@melissasiegel9682]

That balcony is almost funny. I’m not really looking for humor in a ship cabin, but I might enjoy that balcony as a solo cruiser!

[@gigi9301]

What about safety? Everybody can see straight into your deck and cabin ; I would put towels and some little stuff on all those chairs in front and call it MINE , thanks