A note from the Cruise Director

I have been reading with interest all the comments. I was on the maiden voyage and had nothing to complain about. I understand that it was new and with new crew and new systems there would be teething problems which I really did not encounter. It was slow to get off the ship and that was at both ports. Maybe two exits should be introduced.
There was a comment about the cost of the photos and that has always been one thing that did annoy me, but if you consider taking the family, all dressed up, to a studio, the cost would be way more than $29.95. The cost of a drink in the casino may be more because they are a separate identity and a company within the company and I guess they can charge what they like. Buy a drink outside and take it with you is the solution.
That cruise was my 30th and am looking forward to another 30 or more. Just need to win lotto or find a sugar daddy. Elaine

Hi Elaine

Congratulations on your 30th cruise and I am glad you enjoyed youself. Wherever possible we do use two gangways, unfortinately though it is not always and option and in Melbourne, which i think was one of the ports you visited with us, there is only one gangway available from the terminal.
The cost of a drink in the casino is not anymore than any of the other bars so no need to carry it in. Our drinks are the same in every bar and the only reason i can think for paying a different price is if it is different brand, eg chard instead of Sauv Blc, gun mix instead of can, etc.

Hope this helps to clarify, look forward to seeing you on another 30 cruises.

Elaine, in the blog from the PJ Hotel Director he stated that alcohol was the same price over all of the vessel. I am not worried about the alcoholic beverage prices, personally, but I must admit that having read some of these blogs and some comments in Cruise Critic I am more concerned about the complaints about waiting for extended periods to eat. You also mentioned delays in disembarking at your excursion ports and that was also mentioned. 3 hours to get off and 3 hours to get on. I have a feeling that might be a bit of an exaggeration. I hope so because I am sailing on the PJ on the 14th February.

I have only been on one cruise before and that was on the Superstar Virgo. I was quite impressed by that vessel. I am, selfishly, hoping that P & O will get all the teething problems fixed by the time of my cruise.

Glad you enjoyed your PJ maiden voyage.

Hi,
We are travelling in May, this year, and have a semi disabled person travelling with us. He needs to use a walker to get around and has major concerns about being able to manage getting on and off the ship, using tenders, at the different ports. Is there any information that can be provided about access to the different islands (Isle of Pines, Lifou, and Noumea) and what assistance will be needed, from us, to enable him to get on and off the ship? Any information you are able to give us would be appreciated.

Dear All,

I recently did the 12 day cruise departing Sydney 28th DEC with my elderly mother.
I had never been cruising before but had spoken to many friends who had. However, nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced with P&O.
The check-in was a disaster….having to line up in front of this building and drop off the bags, only then to fight your way up stream back into the terminal to line up again to check in. This took 1 hour .
This was definitely the wrong cruise ….it appeared that there were goups of roving youth bent on partying at all costs and with little regard to other pax. The Sydney harbour departure on deck gave an indication of what was to follow….who chooses that music ! Very 80´s and very out of date.
Like many I was suprized at the extra charges on board. Lets start with the so called ¨kids free¨zone. At $20 per head per day it was an exageration. There was not even a pool in the area. Speaking of pools, the existing 2 were immediately taken over by groups of youth who were jumping and screaming , thus eliminating any posibility of a relaxing day by the pool.
The Waterfront Restaurant was nicely decorated and gave good and imaginative meals. However, the only tables for 2 , of which there were 4 per zone, were right in the main traffic area…far from any windows , and stuck up against the serving areas. It was a learning experience with the crew for them to appreciate we did not want to sit at a table for 8.
The first island visited , the tenders took forever to disembark.
I got a tender ticket at 0930 , waited until 1130 , then was old to proceed to the disembarkation area , where I stood in a darkened corridor for another half hour waiting to board. The return was no better, and the tender took 1 hour to deliver us from the shores to the ship.
The saving grace in the whole cruise was the Club Lounge which we stumbled upon the first night. Even so, it was taken over by a group of 18 who were there every night and who felt it was their private lounge , defeating the purpose of a quiet secluded escape.
In short, not a good introduction to cruising and certainly not to P&O.

Just off the last cruise on 19th Jan. I have to say well done thank you to P&O and entire crew of PJ. I was happy to pay extra for many of the additional facilities on board, although I think you could bring prices down in aqua spa a touch, maybe more.
The entertainment was great and varied. But, the best by far for me was the quality of the food and restaurants; waterfront superb decor, Le Luna delicious combinations, Saltgrill I never expected to eat the best steak ever in the middle of the Pacific!
Keep it up PJ, I have no doubt if you maintain the standards I experienced on this cruise you will have a very successful tenure in Sydney.

Hi Simon,
Thanks for a great blog. You must be soooo over all of the glass half full comments by now but good on P&O for letting them vent.
We are booked on the 1st of Feb. cruise and know we are going to have a terrific time. We have done our research and know what to expect.
One thing that we would like to clarify though, as there has been conflicting feedback, is that there is no charge for the gym as it states in your advertising. We will need to visit this area daily if all the reports about the food are true.
We are that excited now that it is very hard to function in every day life. Thanks again!

Hi Shaz n’Baz

Absolutely no charge for using the Gym. There is a charge for using the Thermal suite which is far more that just a Sauna but it is upto you if you want to use it. When you get onboard have a look around, if you decide to use it you can either buy a day pass or a cruise pass. Rest assured the Gym is completely free.

look forward to seeing you.

Cheers Simon, that is what I thought. Not going to read any more negative stuff.
CU on board.

JUst returned on 19th. Sure there a few thinhgs that you have to pay extra for – but there is plenty to do and plenty of places to go without paying any extra for anything. Photos are expensive but you don’t have to buy them. Cruising in January you have to expect young crowds and kids – 360 this cruise – but it is a large ship and plenty of quiet places to go. I am over 60 and quite enjoy watching the young. They never bothered us and were always respectful when sharing a table for a meal.

Glad to see some positive comments comming onboard as i can’t wait till i go. Come on 28th March!!!!!

Hi Simon

Just reading Cruise Handbook .
In relation to tipping is it saying that $7.50 will be debited daily to my cruise card automatically from day 1 and it is up to me to change that amount . If yes can it be back changed ie on day 5 can I increase or decrease from day 1 .

On previous cruises I have tipped cabin staff well first and last day and other staff when I thought appropriate .

Hi Sam

You can decrease at any time if you want to. To increase i would suggest you just give any additional tip to the people you want to receive it.

Hi Simon
Im on the Pacific Jewel in July with my 15yr old daughter im really looking forward to it and i am really excited about it as this will be our first time we have cruised and first time overseas while im on the cruise i will be celebrating my birthday we will be at sea on the day of my birthday and i cant think of a better way to celebrate it by relaxing and having fun. What i want to know maybe you can help me i have paid my cruise in full have passports all done ive added all my details in the cruise personaliser, but for some reason it is not letting me update my emergency contacts details. Is there a problem with the cruise personaliser any help will be appreciative thankyou cant wait to be cruising on the Jewel.

Cheers Wendy

HI Wendy, I am having the same problem as well. Maybe we need to contact P&O and let them know so they can fix the problem.

Hi Wendy and Kay

Sorry I cannot advise you on this one but will forward your blog comments to the office.

Thanks for that Simon hopefully it will be rectified ive tried umpteen times to no avail so fingers crossed.

Cheers Wendy

Hi Kay,

Im glad im not the only one having trouble with it hopefully it’ll be fixed soon. Happy cruising Kay when are you going.

Cheers Wendy

Hi guys had the same problem but I have a solution. Its to do with the format of the State. It does not accept N.S.W. but rather just NSW. It doesn’t explain this when there is the error but I had to call up to find this out.

We are going NZ cruise in nov. I have managed to get mine and the 2 kids emergency on there but not my daughters as her passport needs renewing and will not allow her contact on there. However after getting mine and the kids on there next time I check it we are all deleted again. I have done it over and over but give up now. Oh well P&O should have it all as we have cruised the last 3 years.

Hi, Can you please tell me if PJ has the following:- A Pizzeria Restaurant, A grill on the deck that serves burgers at lunch, an ice cream bar on deck, a soft drink card for a fee that allows you to have as much soft drink as you wish. I’m wanting to book the xmas cruise 2010 from Sydney but unsure whether to book on Pacific Jewel or Pacific Sun. We are a family of 4 with 2 kids aged 7&9.Cathy

Hi Luke, its not the format as that is how I do the state it must be something else I have tried so many times and it would just not let me update anything. On a positive note it might work now for you and Kay as I just went into mine to see if it would work and what do you know it worked yay thanks Simon. I have now finished updating all my information. Now all I have to do is countdown till im on the Jewel on the 5th July yippee Goodluck with yours now Kay hope it works for you and have a fun cruise to NZ with the family in Nov . Happy Cruising Everyone

Cheers Wendy

PS: Thanks again Simon for sending the blog of to the office and having the problem fixed, might see you when I cruise for the first time on the Jewel 5th July.

Cheers Wendy

Hi Cathy

PJ does not have a pizzeria like the sun but does serve Pizzas and burgers from the grill bar. There is not an ice cream bar as such but ice cream is available from the Cafe. Soft drinks cards are not available on any of the P&O Australia ships.

Hi, we are a family of 4 with kids 7 & 8. We are excited to be departing on the 20th March. What extras should we be expecting?
Hoping this is a holiday we will remember and enjoy and if so will book for next year.

Hi, I’m on the 20 March cruise and it’s great to have some positive feedback.
Even the negative feedback is good as it makes you aware of things in advance. Anyhow will keep monitoring this blog and can’t wait to go cruising

Anyone else cruising 14th Feb!

Would love to see an image of a 3 berth cabin with balcony or even a layout.
thanks

Simon,
I have booked a cruise for June, but have a low-sodium (salt) diet (less than 120mg/100gms). As most, if not all, commerially prepared food is high in sodium, will the catering team cater for me, and will there be an extra charge for diet variation to the menu?

Hi Khloe, my husband and I are travelling on the 14 Feb, which will be our second cruise on the Pacific Jewel, we were first on her for the maiden voyage. Few problems then, but hopefully these will have been rectified since then. I am sure you will have a wonderful time. Regards Maureen

We are getting married on March 6, then heading to Sydney for for the March 10 cruise on the Jewel. Can’t think of a better way to spend our first two weeks as a married couple. Is anyone else going on the march 10 cruise?

My mum and I are also on the 14th Feb cruise! Very excited, not long to wait now!

Hi, Cam&Stace,
Shirl&i are renewing our voules on the 6 march,40years and then going to sydney for the march 10 cruise.Maybe we will catch up for a drink or two.

This will be my first cruise. Looking forward to it.
Question: What are drink prices like? I have heard you can pay an amount up front say $200 and then drink for “free” Is this a P&O thing or not?
PS. will be a special birthday!

We are travelling 14th. I am so excited. Our first cruise. Booked it a year ago, so have been patiently waiting!

Only 2 1/2 weeks to go! we cant wait either

Im sure we’ll enjoy ourselves no matter what cant wait!

I am second cruise can not wait I love the sea Lyn.

Wondering if there is any crew left on th Pacific Dawn seems all jumping on board Pacific Jewel.Which is the better ship.

Hi First timer,You will enjoy the experience.I was a bit sceptical at first on my first cruise on the Pacific dawn people were well behaved best way to holiday it has changed my outlook on life that my wife & I are going to try Pacific Jewel next .

Can someone tell me if you can take some drinks eg: water/coke to put in your room on the boat. and the first night for the party night are the drinks free?
cheers

Hi Simon, thanks for your reply. Does the grill bar on the deck on PJ serve Pizza for lunch or dinner or is it just served late at night.( my children are pizza fans) and is there a charge.

We’re also cruising on the Jewel on Feb 14th. First cruise for us as well and we’re so excited!!

Its getting so close! I want to start packing now

Hi Everyone on this blog,

We have just returned from NYE Cruise which departed on 28th Dec 09 for 12 nights. I have never been out of Australia in my life and was very nervous, well thank you P&O you have put that all to bed.

The minute we stepped aboard we were treated with kindess and respect and the P&O staff could not do enough for you. All the Staff onbaord were brilliant, the Entertainment Staff, Reception, the Stewards, Waiters, Security (sorry if i forgot anyone) the whole Crew, everyone were fantastic. The Staff chatted quite openly with guests and made us feel extremely welcome and at home the whole time. The food was fantastic and Restaurants were excellent. The shows were so good that sometimes we went to both the shows. I was run ragged trying to keep up with everything i can assure you we didnt miss a thing, from The Islands, Shows, Bingo, Bar Wars, Gym, Karoake, Dancing, NYE, Theme Nights you name it, you can do as much as you want or little as you want SERIOUSLY, its true it is up to you.

Honestly, i cant put into words how much of a good time we had. Well put it this way, it was so good that we are organising our next Cruise now, on the Pacific Jewel.

To answer some peoples issues about extra costs, well that is totally up to you, you dont have to spend anymore money if you dont want to. Most of the things you do is for free but there are a few areas which you have to pay a very nominal fee for the exclusiivity of using that area which is reasonable, but if you dont want to pay that dont go there. The drink prices are very reasonable compared to onshore prices in Aus. You can just have water or tea and coffee with your meal and that is all included, so it is totally up to you how much you spend.

You will have as good a time on board Pacific Jewel as you will allow yourself to have. All the other passengers onboard were so friendly and polite and we made some life long friends. The Children were all well behaved and sometimes didnt even realise there were any aboard and if i remember rightly there were around 350 kids onboard.

There is plenty of room on the Ship and sometimes its is hard to believe that there are so many passengers onboard because sometimes there isnt another person around. The pools can get crowded but it doesnt ever get that rowdy that you cant enjoy yourself and have a nice swim.

All passengers are courteous and friendly and at no time did i find anyone to be unruly or out of order and at the end of the day if there are any passengers like that i can assure you that Security with deal with those issues quick smart and in a hurry.

These are my top ten hints to make the most of your cruise;
1. Arrive earlier for check in, this way you will miss the big ques.
2. Avoid peak times for Tender boats, go & come back early.
3. Dine early in Restaurants for more relaxed atmosphere.
4. Read your Pacific Daily every night to work out itinery.
4. Check your onboard bill daily to avoid any unexpected exp’s.
5. Set a limit on your onboard card if you dont trust yourself.
6. Sit with other guests at dinner, you will be suprised what you will find out, ecspecially from past cruise passengers, good tips.
7. Buy your Scenes DVD the first day, you save money.
8. Book your shore tours before you sail or the first sea day.
9. Pick up snorkelling equipment at Aqua Hut first sea day.
10.Advise Crew immediately if you have any issues, they will go out of there way to rectify it.

And last but not least, just Relax and enjoy yourself, as you and you alone will determine if you have a good time or not.

Thank you Pacific Jewel and Crew, your the best

What age group is everyone travelling on the 14th in? the 4 of us are between 20-24. Myself and my partner and my friend and her partner.

Thank you so much Michelle and Mark for your wonderful comments. We are boarding on Monday for NZ cruise, it’s our first one and we can hardly function at the moment.
We will definately be having a great time and will take your tips on board………..excuse the pun!
Cheers

Yes roll on March 28, I am sure the positives will more than outweigh the negatives, some people just like to winge about everything.

Hi Simon

Have been reading your comments with interest, we also were on the maiden voyage, and enjoyed ourselves, with a few minor hitches. I can’t remember seeing the ‘Grill Bar’? could u tell me where it was, and when it is open? I would appreciate it. We are trying again on the 14th Feb to celebrate my 70th!!! so hopefully all the teething problems in connection with the maiden voyage will be rectified.

One important thing I really was uncomfortable about, was not getting a copy of a receipt when you purchased a drink, or other items on board, has this changed??

Kind regards
Maureen & Bryan

Hi Brigitte

You can take drinks back to your room from the bar that your purchase. The first night Sailaway party, drinks are not free although they are reasonably priced, you will have a blast, it is the best fun sailing out of Sydney.

Have a good time, you lucky thing.

Hey Karen

Drink prices are very reasonable and they are same price everywhere on the ship which is good.

You cant pay an amount up front but you can put a limit on your card to stop yourself from overspending.

Have a great time.

Hi Julie

It is totally up to you how much you spend.

Extra costs are, obviously drinks, day spa, shops, 2 Restaurants have cover charge, photos and the Late night Grill bar, there are no hidden costs so dont worry, and you can check your bill daily.

You will have a blast.

Hi Sharyn

I totally agree, everyone we shared with young and old we very nice and all Children showed Adults the utmost respect.

Hey Shaz n Baz

I commented on this blog because i too was sick of all the “negative peoples” comments, albeit they are allowed to say how they feel but rest assured, the cruise will be what you make of it. Just take the time to look around the ship, check everything out on the first sea day and things will start to fall into place. There wasnt a part of the ship i didnt go to check out, the whole Ship is AWESOME and i fell in love with the Pacific Jewel, she is beautiful.

Have a fantastic time, i cant wait to go again.

Hi Anthony

I feel extremely sorry that you didnt have a wonderful experience, everything that you have said i experienced totally the opposite. All staff were courteous, the children were not loud and obnoxious (they were having fun and enjoying themselves and laughing) and at times didnt even realise they were there and the sailaway party whilst it was loud (and a hell of a lot of fun) was no way an indication on what was too come, it was even better.

Good luck for your next Holiday.

Hi Steve

There are a lot of staff at the Tender Boats and while it may take a little longer for them to get on and off the staff are very helpful and you wont have any problems. Onshore, they are mostly long jettys and again, there is a lot of staff there to help anyone get on or off who have disabilities.

Hope that helps.

Have a good time.

Hi Maureen

The Salt Grill was already open for the first voyage, and it has a cover charge. It is located on Pool Deck, on the opposite side of the Chocolate Factory and directly underneath The Attic.

If you want a reciept you just have to ask for it and you will get one.

Hi Shaz n Baz,
You lucky people being a Kiwi myself you will not be disappointed.I can teach you the lingo.South Island is the best Island.My wife(Aussie) wants to go next time.Esky is chilly bin,Batch is holiday house.Dairy is milkbar.Try the ice cream & chocolate.The Maoris are lovely people.
Aussies are always welcomed I know I married one.
Have fun & enjoy.

Hi Ken and Shirl
My husband and I are also on the Jewel sailing 10th March it will be our first cruise and are very excited. Also taking my 17yr old granddaughter who at the moment is on a cruise around New Zealand. Would luv to catch up for a drink and help u celebrate renewal of vows. Luv to hear back from u

Hi Cathy

You can Pizza’s, Burgers, Wedges, Chips that sort of stuff from the Grill Bar which is on the Pool Deck near the Lido Bar. I am sure it only opens at certain times. The prices are extremely cheap, Pizza is $7.50 and chips $2.00 and for what you get it is really good value. You can buy Icecreams from Chocolate Factory and drinks are available at any bar or the Buffet and other snacks such as Chocolates and Chips from the little shop in the Atrium. You cant get a drink card but for your kids if you are worried put a limit on their card that will give you peace of mind that they wont go crazy spending.

Have a good holiday

Hi Heather&Ron,
Its our first cruise too.We can relate to you both being excited.Both the entertainment,meals&shore tours sound great.The idea of a cruise is to have fun &meet new friends,so therefore a drink together sounds like a plan.

Hi
I’m cruising in March with my family and friends and was just wandering if you need to catch the tenders (I think they are called) accross to the Island at Noumea and Villa or does the boat dock at these islands. I’m just trying to work out what time to organise our shore tours.

Hi Brigitte – we bought our own soft drnks on board and just stocked up the fridge in our room with those – it was no problem.

Hi Amanda,
In both Noumea and Vila the ship docks at the wharf so you can just walk on and off – there may be a queue as they have to scan everyones cards as you get off, but it’s fairly quick.

Hi Julie, we are booked on the same cruise, kids 8 & 4. My kids are so excited. I’m not taking any notice of the bad comments, some people can’t see the good in anything. We are going to have a blast, hope to meet you on board.

Thanks from me also, I’m sure I’m not alone when I say, what is with all the whingers!!! Life (and holidays) are what YOU make them. We are sailing for the first time on March 20 with 2 kids, 8 & 4 and 13 friends and family and are all super excited and determined to have the best holiday ever. Thanks for all the great tips we’ll take note of all of them. Glad you had such a great time. We have no doubt that our holiday will be just as good.

Cam & Stace You will have a great time this will be my 6th cruise on the 10th of march this time we are cruising with the extended family 11 of us we should catch up for a drink or 2 if you have time.

Hi Wendy
I was typing my State N.S.W. and it would not let me in was told to put NSW and it worked also one of our names was incorrect and it would not let us into that persons when checking on another name in same cabin realised the incorrect spelling hope this helps happy cruising we are on the 10th march cruise

Hi All
I agree with everything Anthony has said about this cruise, could have been done better.
I still had a great holiday it beats working..My wife & I where in the the Club Lounge as well, it was a great place and could have been a lot better without the group of 18 rude people who did not care about anyone else in there. They treated as the own private party room. It was suppose to be a quiet place to go and relax in, Next time I will check with the Hostess prior to joining it and make sure no group has joined.I should have complained straight away, but we did hint a few times that we where not happy about it.
will be hard to go again with PO, but what choices to we have from Sydney. Might look overseas aat other cruse lines.
Thanks

Hi Amanda

Villa is a Port and we docked about 7.00 am. Just a small tip if you are doing a shore tour on Vila book in for an early tour so you dont waste your day, then when you are finished early so you can go shopping. I am not sure about Noumea, just check your itinerary, it should tell you if it is a port or tenders, but anyway what ever tours you do, get to them early so that way you still have the rest of the day to do other things.

Have a great time.

Hi Kath

No problem at all, its my pleasure. I know how you feel and how anxious you get after paying all that money then reading so many negative comments. I was so nervous before i left but also very excited at the same time, but within a few hours of leaving i was settled, happy and already enjoying my holiday. Just take the time to go around the ship and check out where everything is first, like the Restaurants, Entertainment areas etc and give yourself a change to settle in.

If there is anything you are worried about or not happy with tell someone and trust me they will fix it, they are not there to make your time miserable, there job is to make sure you have the best time possible, not make you miserable so i am not sure where some of these peoples comments are coming from and i can assure you if it was crap like all these people are saying i wouldnt be organising another holiday on the Jewel this time with other friends and family.

Have the best time ever, it is fantastic and you will love it.

Hi Noumea is a port as well

Hi Ian. Yeah sounds like a good idea. This is my 2nd cruise. Stacey’s first. We can’t wait. it’ll be great to get on the boat and relax after our wedding.

Have just got off PJ this morning, and can’t believe what a great time we had (2 adults, 3 kids 18.15 & 10). After reading all the whingers comments, and having had a bad cruising experience 11 years ago (fair princess), I was almost dreading going. I’m glad I did! The staff are great, the food fantastic and the entertainment brilliant!!!
We read about queues for everything, but experienced none. Getting on took about 1/2 hour, getting off today 20 mins. No queues for food, tenders, nothing!!! And don’t forget, this was a booked out cruise with school holidays as well. If these problems were there, P&O have certainly fixed them. I can’t say anything negative about the whole experience. I did hear people whinge about pathetic little things (ie there were no omelettes available one morning, so some old guy had a whinge!) Pick one of the other 101 things to choose from and get a life!
Would I go again? Absolutely! Would I recommend it to friends & family? Absolutely!
Sonya
Now if I can just get the house to stop rocking…..

Hi Khloe,
I’m 22 and my mum is turning 48 on the day of the cruise.

Good on you Sonja, what deck were you on.

Simon
Would love to see a pic of a 4 berth cabin with bunk beds

Hi Sonya

Thats so awesome you had a good time, isnt it fantastic, you summed it up so well but it is actually hard to put into words how good it was. I am organising our next Cruise now and i am taking my family with me this time because it was so good. We experienced no queues either, the food, the shows and staff are all fantastic. As you said people will winge about stupid little things but as you said get over it and just enjoy yourself and get a life. I read comments from people that they make you sit on tables with other people, that infact is incorrect, if you want to sit by yourself you only have to open your mouth and tell the wait staff and they will sit you accordingly, but instead these people say nothing then winge on an open blog like this that they were not happy with something. I cant fault P& O and the beautiful Pacific Jewel it was just so fantastic and unbelievably awesome.

Cant wait to go again, yahooooo……….

Hi Lance

I think P & O Cruises are fantastic, it is a shame you didnt have the same experience we had. My husband and i are in our early 40’s and our kids are grown up but at no time did i find anyone young or old to be rude or arrogant to any other passenger, i think all age groups showed a considerable amount of respect for other passengers onboard.

Just on your comment about going overseas to go on another Ship, just a heads up, my Girflfriend Cruised with P&O in 2008 and absolutely loved it, couldnt fault it and cant wait to do it again, last year she travelled half way around the world to go on an (MSC Splendida, which is a brand new ship) Cruise in Europe and absolutely hated it. It cost her a fortune, everything was an extra cost, tea and coffee with dinner wasnt even free you had to pay for it. They had no laundries and to get a piece of clothing cleaned it cost $7.50 Euro, which is $15.00 AUD, she blew her budget the 2nd day aboard the Ship and she didnt even take her family. Granted she still had a good time but if you ask her would she do it again, probably not, but if you asked her would she go P&O, absolutely.

So just because you had a bad experience this time wth P&O doesnt mean your going to go on another Ship and have a better time because it is in another country, it doesnt work that way, you are the only person that can determine what sort of holiday you will have, regardless of the quality of Cruise Ship you go on be it 3 Star or 5 Star.

If you were so unhappy at the time you really should have said something, no point getting on a blog now and winging about something you yourself could have fixed just by saying something to a crew member.

can anyone tell me if there is a spa pool in the oassis area on the jewel

Kay,
We were on deck 9 towards the back (aft) of the ship and it was great: 2 decks down was the Waterfront restaurant, up 3 decks and we were in the middle of the Plantation restaurant. Not sure if it was our imagination or what, but it seemed the higher the deck, the more movement we seemed to feel.
Sonya

Lisa,

There is no spa in the Oasis area, nor any pool. It is at the back of the ship, about deck 5 or 6( I think). It has sunlounges in it and I think you get free tea, coffee and water. We looked at it on the day we boarded, and never went back again.
Sonya

Myself and my daughter are on cruise in aug this will be our 3rd, first on pj. can anyone tell me cost of oasis area and cost of spa area. We love cruising. 1 PO, 1 princess Yes some ships have loooong lines and waits of hours to go ashore, but this is only a small amount of time in the whole event.
We cant wait.

yeh come on feb 14th ….pj…..can’t wait…going with my 2 beautiful sons, 1 turning 21…on the 20th feb, if any one wants to join the party…

Hi Cheryl

There is a cover charge to use this area of $20.00 per day, which i think is a nominal fee to pay, it is very luxurious and nice wicker cane furniture around the deck with a compliment of wait staff to serve you. There is no pool or spa in this area, although there is a shower to freshen up during the day, it is on deck 10 aft. It is nice and quiet and no children are allowed, so if you want to get away this is the perfect place to do it, if you dont want to pay anything go there later in the day when it is unattended and there is no cost. The day spa varies depending on what type of treatment you get, but prices will be available when you go there.

Hi Anthony
P&O are aimed at being a family boat for kids to beable to have fun and parents understand this, It seems you would enjoy the princess cruises more as its aimed at the older generation.

I am with you Sean. Had the best cruise ever and we have done many. Food was fabulous as was the entertainment and our cabin – and we were upgraded as well. My husband had a nasty fall and ended up with 5 stitches in a badly sliced nose but even the medical staff and in particular the doctor, were fantastic. She did a marvellous job!! So to all those people who have been reading and having some concerns – DONT!! I am sitting here with my great suntan and just waiting to book the next one!!

We were on deck 11 at the front. Also had the same wonderful experienc ewi the everything!! Just the best time. My husband was the one who had the fall at Lifou and had stitches in his nose. Even the Doctor was brilliant and it did not spoil anything for us. Crew, food, accommodation – everything – JUST AWESOMe!!!

We are going on the PJ in March to Tassie, can anyone tell me about the internet cafe . How much does it cost and can you take your own laptop and pay a wireless charge and use it in your cabin
Thanks
Louise

Thanks Terry we shall. Our best friend is a Kiwi and we have a bit of an idea how you guys six up the English linguage.
We are boked on a tour to visit the beautiful Maori people and I am sure that will be one of the highlights of the cruise.
Cheers

I was on the Pacific Jewel on the 26th!! it was the best day of my life. got up and danced in front of everyone in the aussie cossie comp. it was amazing! want to thank the entire crew again for their fantastic efforts! Josh Dayboll is an awsome cruise director, and it was great walking by and saying hi. he always had a huge smile on his face I suggest everyone goes to the shoes the pacific entertainers put on. you wont see anything like them in your life.
enjoy cruising. i did. cant wait till my next one!

Hi Josh,
thank you for the relaxing time on board Pacific Jewel.It was really amazing!There’s a prob with our account.The money hasn’t been taken off my account.Can you please talk to reception they have all my details.Thanks again.
Vince and Gina

Hi
My family and I are cruising on the Jewel at the end of march and on the information we have read it says we can learn some circus things what type of things do they teach you?

Dear Michelle & Mark,

I read with great amusement comments made by people, such as yourself.. It is amazing at how many people have had issues with a cruise and then how many people come out and defend P&O, it’s almost as though this blog is monitored and responses are manufactured as well as individuals who do make a poor comment then get labeled whingers and complainers. I returned last Friday from my first and last P&O cruise. In the end I was absolutely disgusted at the fact that P&O try and sting you at every opportunity. The Club lounge, The Oasis deck, The Day SPA was an absolute joke with ridiculous prices, $176.oo for a 50 minute massage… are you serious. We were also offered the opportunity to pay an extra $99.oo to use steam rooms, and wet rooms and a relaxation room. Where did the ‘all inclusive’ holiday go that the travel agent sold me, One price and everything is included, oh except…………
Almost every single event that I attended was late, behind starting time. Most things were on late at night, especially stuff the kids would like to watch, laser shows, the acrobat show, this was on once only at 11.45pm and the daily show the travel agent told us about didn’t exist, unless she was talking about the practice and warm up they did in the Atrium, they roped off an area causing less room to sit with a coffee so they could streatch and warm up…The champagne glass laser show that was on at 11.00pm, great time for the kids, turned into another money making exercise with the show going for 3-5 minutes at most and then the ‘photo shoot’ going for god knows how long so they could sting you for another $30 bucks. The other laser shows were spectacular but again on at ridiculous times late at night. The kids were not allowed to play bingo in the theatre due to gambling laws however a blind eye was turned to people buying alcoholic drinks for under 18’s… The kids pool was closed on and off for the first few days. Irresponsible parents stood by watching their little sweethearts jumping into the pool, a lady standing beside me in the pool got hit in the face with a soft tennis ball, the little brat didn’t even apologize, she had to get out of the pool. Your comment………. If you were so unhappy at the time you really should have said something, no point getting on a blog now and winging about something you yourself could have fixed just by saying something to a crew member……………. I find this comment interesting as well. I did get out of the pool and speak to a crew member who’s response was, “I’m sorry for this sir, I’ll get someone for you” someone who never arrived. I tried to sit on the back deck at night with my 12 year old Daughter only to have to move in the end as the language was disgusting by the group of 8-10, 14-17 year old young men and women sitting there, this was also well after midnight and they were there with no adult supervision. I spoke to one of them and they did stop swearing for a little while but it just started up again. I also spoke to a security guard and was told he couldn’t sit there all night waiting for them to swear, and that he had suggested they go to bed but was told there were happy to stay up.. We had a guy confined to his cabin with a security guard on the door, sorry Michelle, this sort of thing just doesn’t happen on P&O does it. The same under 18 year old bloke was pissed in the pool and started a fight with another adult… this doesn’t happen on P&O either. I saw people buying drinks for obviously under age teens as well. Our aircond in the cabin worked on and off. To top it off I tried on our final night to get an invoice for all I had spent, I has 5 people on my card, and was refused an invoice as the account would be finalized after midnight and a copy would be under my door before morning, which did not arrive. I still don’t know exactly how much they will bill me for and tuff if I have a query isn’t it. Also, my brother in law decided to settle with cash…. Big mistake, go card every time to avoid the hassle. He queued for 40 minutes at 10.30pm on the last night to settle his account. He also organized to leave the ship ASAP as he had a limo waiting to take his family home. He told them at the beginning of the cruise he had to be off by 8.15am. They booked him for a 8.00am exit. He was sent back to reception as he was about to get on the gangway. When he asked why he was told reception would discuss it with him. He queued at reception for 15 minutes only to be asked to pay for 4 bottles of water at a total cost of $14.00 water which had been consumed during the cruise not after he settled the night before. He asked why this happened and the response was “sorry sir”. When he finally exploded the staff would not even make eye contact and gave no explanation as to how this happened. A lousy $14.00 after he just spend over $1500.00 on board not to mention the cost of the cruise. As it was an over site on P&O’s part you would think they would just let it go…. Not a chance, suck every single last cent they can out of you…. I went to reception 3 or 4 times during the cruise for different reasons and every single time there was someone there complaining about similar issues to that mentioned above. Too many whingers hey Michelle, wish these people would just be positive so they could enjoy themselves and shut the hell up when they don’t get value for their dollar

By the way, they market Pacific Jewel as the newest liner in the fleet, new ship etc, it’s 20 years old and looks every part of it. I was amazed at how many people said, ‘this isn’t a new ship, I thought it was brand new’. Parts of the ship were amazing, parts were very average, rusting, broken, old….

Having said all that, the food was exceptional, the staff, 95% of them were great. Our Cabin attendant did everything he could to make the cruise great, he was like a ghost, we hardly ever saw him and he amazingly appeared out of no where when we did need to speak to him, he was great and got a good tip from us during and after the cruise. The 5% were the check in and disembarkation staff, They were rude and spoke to you like crap. We were told to leave the terminal, we went out side, we were told to leave the immediate area and wait for people across the road…. ‘ just get over there’ .

So Michelle, the holiday is what you make of it…… to a certain degree yes it is however there are things outside your control that do affect your holiday irrespective of your ‘attitude’. So I’m glad you had a great time and I respect that. Maybe you should respect that others didn’t have a great time and not label them whingers. You wouldn’t like to be labeled an airy fairy optimist or a P&O stooge would you. After my experience with P&O and the experience of people that I know and trust it was my first and last cruise with P&O Pacific Jewel.

Hi Anthony

Again, I am really sorry you didnt have a good time, but i can assure that my comments are not “manufactured” and at no time would i defend P&O if i had had a bad time.

We had under 18’s drinking on our Ship and Security dealt with it immediately. Yes i agree that some places that you go have cover charges on them but if you dont want to pay it you dont have to go to those areas. Every show we went to was on time there were no delays.

If you followed the Ship from the Rebirth you would have been aware that at no time did P&O market PJ as a new Ship. You only have to read the ships general statitics to work that out and i am sure most people were aware that it was OV2 that was being Rebirthed and if you have been following this blog, go back to earlier blogs you can see all the posts showing the Rebirth of the Ship, i dont no where you say that it was a “new ship?, all they said is that they are adding another Superliner to the fleet.

I settled my bill by cash on the final day at sea and no problems either. Embark/Disembarkation staff were fantastic, Reception staff were extremely helpful everytime we went to them. Again i am sorry that you had such a bad time, i just cant believe that people can have such extremely different opinions on the same thing, there is nothing i can say bad about the whole experience and i could sit here till i am blue in the face and that wont change the way you feel.

Yes i agree that the prices in the Aqua Spa were expensive so i just didnt use that area, it didnt bother me if i had a massage or not, but if i really, really wanted a massage, yes, i would have paid it.

Maybe if you are as unhappy about the Cruise that you say you are and that you feel that all your complaints were not addressed, then maybe you should wrtie to P&O directly and let them know. You are well within you rights to complain or “winge” as i called it on this blog, i wasnt saying that you couldnt it is an open blog for everyone good or bad, it just didnt seem like you addressed the issues at the time and what i was saying is why complain after the fact when it is too late to do anything.

Good luck with your next holiday, i really do hope that you have a good time whatever you choose to do.

Can somebody please tell me what the drink prices are like ? I heard a carlton cold cost $7.00 and a glass of wine $9.00 is this correct ? Roll on March 28 , cant wait!!!!!!!1

After reading your story I feel so depressed I think I’ll book a cruse with P&O just to pick me up, a cruse is like life you only get what you put in, Happy crusing.

I have been sitting back and reading all the comments posted about the Jewel. So far the positives outway the negatives as I can see. I will be cruising with my wife and another couple on the Jewel from Sydney on the 28th July this year. This will be our 3rd cruise we have not cruised for some years. Previously twice on the old Fairstar and thoroughly enjoyed it. Apart from something unforseen or drastic happening, any holiday is what you make it.If you start with a negative attitude then you wil look for all negatives ,overlooking the pluses. People have different expectations , likes and dislikes about service,food and entertainment.Some people are happy go lucky and mix, whilst I have found others to have very high expectations & some downright rude and might I say snobish. We fit into the happy go lucky group and caravan a lot and enjoy ourselves.I will reserve my judgement untill our cruise,but I am sure that we will enjoy ouselves. Happy cruising……Wayne.

Hi Brigitte,
I’m sure your son will have a fantastic birthday. I too am going on the 14th Feb cruise with my Mum (which also happens to be the day of her birthday). Only two weeks to go, it’s getting very exciting!

Hi Anthony,

Want to know more information about the Club Lounge! Tell me more! Where is it? Does it cost extra? What was on offer?

Kind Regards
Tracey

Hi Wayne

Yes i totally agree with what you are saying, we met some really nice down to earth people and we also had the misfortune of meeting some really stuck up and outright snobish people that gave you the once over from head to toe like they were trying to see if you were the type of people that they wanted to associate with, but at the end of the day i dont worry about people like that. Yes people do have a different level of expectations on what to excpect, but some of the things that have been said on this blog are untrue. They never advertised PJ as a brand new ship and they also quite clearly set out the extra charges, people keep saying there are hidden costs, there is no hidden costs, some areas have some cover charges and off course you pay for drinks, bingo, casino, spa etc which is obvious.

Anyway, i know you will have a fantastic time as we did and as you said if you go with a negative attitude then you will overlook any positives and never see the good in anything.

Bon voyage and happy cruising to you too.

HI All
Yeah!!!!! we go on PJ 2moro have been waiting for over a year to go and i’m so excited don’t think i’ll sleep much 2night have been reading all the bad blogs but i’m not gona let them stop me from having a great time it’s what u make of it yourself will let u all ( the one’s waiting to go) what I think when we get back on the 14th, lucky me cya later, ship ahoy!!!!!!

Hi Michelle n Mark & Wayne,

I totally agree with you, for all those complaining about hidden charges, if they actually took time out to read the brochure (on line or in book form) it clearly indicates by the use of * or ^ (or any other symbol) against the newer items that charges do apply or a nominal fee required (can be found at the bottom of the page)…
It’s great seeing all the positives outweighing the negatives !!!
For me it’s Roll on September 6… The Bounty adventure awaits, and for those lucky enough to be cruising shortly … “BON VOYAGE” and happy cruising… Cheers DJ.

im 23 today might see you there!

Sonya
THANK YOU
We went on the Sun and it had a larger spa in the oasis that was good

do you have to wait to get in the spa’s? as there are only two.

Shaz & Baz.Thanks for the reply.Try the Maori hungi.

Hi Michelle n Mark
You must have been lucky. This was my 3rd cruise and my wifes 5th time.
We cruised on the Pacific Sky for New Years eve a few years ago and had a better time on there, it seemed to have better venues to cope with the amount of people on board plus a better night club than PJ.I have been on the Pride of America in Hawaii 7 day cruise and you got to give it to NCL they Know how to do it very well eveything ran very smooth.What a great ship as well. A lot more modern than what PO have to offer.
PO seem to bring Ships over to Australia re furbish them a little just before they retire the ship. When PO start to get serious about their Australian market and have newer ships I might consider again to go on a cruise with them again. But as I said not much choice we have in Sydney.But as I said I had a great holiday, PO are lucky they have the South Pacific Islands to Cruise, as they are so beautiful and I enjoy what they have to offer.
Lance

If some people bothered to read the cruise handbook and website etc, they would have known which things were inclusive and which would incur an additional charge. These items were cleary marked with an *. Website and brochures state the age in the section labelled ‘Fast Facts’. Drinks are more expensive in clubs onshore, $6.95 for a corona is cheap in comparison. A can of coke at a cafe or even at the servo is anywhere from $2.80 – $4.00. I think $2.50 is reasonable. Anyone complaining about this should have bothered to read the brochure.

Love cruising,just got off the jewel P & O please reduce the space you have given the aquaspa the ship is lacking a large lounge area the Dawn was great.The waterfront rest terific the plantation needs work pretty basic.The shows were great Salt grill needs more space booked out.Even the waterfront was booked out make shore you book the night before,drink prices have gone up since my last cruise 15months ago but still reasonable.Will cruise again but not on the Jewel we will wait and try the Pearl.

Thanks Steven

Greetings, I went on the cruise over Christmas – bought the DVD and it doesn’t work. Can anyone help me with that?

Hi Steven, glad you had a good time, we are off in April. Can you tell me what the beer prices are like? My husband keeps asking me….. Thanks!

Hi Shern, we have just got off the Jewel on the weekend after a 3 day sampler cruise. My husband drank Carona’s all weekend and they were $6.95ea. We felt the same as Steven we cruise quite a lot and we felt the same way in relation to the ship we had the same comments, we are going to wait for the pearl. The ship is way too small for the amount of people.

Hi Wayne, we have just come off the Pacific Jewel after a 3 day sampler to see what the ship was like as we have done 9 cruises now in total and we wanted to see what the ship was like after all the blogs which have been written, being all negative. We always go with a positive mind and are happy go lucky people the only thing we got upset with was when you call in the morning to book the Waterfront Restaurant which is included in the fare price – dining room and get told that it is booked out and to eat at the buffet which is not good at all,,,,,, you do get a little upset as the brochure states free style dining and if the 2000 passangers want to eat approx at the same time it doesn’t work as the dining room only holds approx. 800 people. So tell me how free style dining works???? and also a little hint, book the night before or when you board for the duration of your cruise.

What price for a VB can my husband keeps asking

We are due to go Feb 23rd. We have booked on deck 10 with a so called balcony (am very disappointed reading it is a steel wall and cant see over it when you sit down). When l booked and looked at the picture of the room it showed a railing balcony. PLEASE CAN SOMEONE TELL ME WHAT THESE BALCONIES ARE LIKE?

Hi Brett,

Apologies for the late reply on your question. It’s one we had to explore properly.

In short, we will definately cater for you, and anyone else who has specific dietary requirements. And no, definately no extra charge just because you have a low sodium diet

For someone on a low sodium diet, we recommend you eat in the Waterfront Restaurant most of the time as it’s easier to prepare food specifically for you. Best thing to do is on your first day, arrange to meet with the Restaurant Manager and/or Maitre D. They can help you develop a menu of foods which can be prepared with no salt. Same goes for LaLuna and Salt Grill. You can also call us on 13 24 94 before your cruise to speak with Customer Services. They can notify the ship in advance of your diet. But I highly recommend meeting with the Restaurant Manager and/or Maitre D as early as possible upon boarding.

The Plantation Restaurant (buffet) is a little more difficult when it comes to hot, prepared foods. You can inform them in advance of your low salt diet but it’s very difficult to prepare food just for you when they don’t know what time you’ll turn up everyday. Best thing here is to stick to the fresh fruit and salads or foods you know aren’t processed or come from a can. Again, just ask the Restaurant Manager if you have any concerns. Arrive early to eat too so you can give yourself and the kitchen some time to prepare before it gets busy.

And for all of the vegetarians out there, we use the ‘apple’ symbol on the menus to distinguish what is a veg dish.

Happy cruising (and eating)
P&O Cruises

Hi Jenny

I am curious to know too. I am booked on deck 10 on the 27th August and I was under the impression that there was glass? It appears that the railings are for the mini suites. Hopefully somebody will answer us.

Thank you Simon. A great response that will assist with a happy cruise.
Brett.

Hi Shern

Beer prices say for a Corona are $6.95, i am nost sure about other beers as my husband only drinks Corona, but i am sure they are around that and i think for VB it is $5.00.

The Cocktails are all reasonably priced, the most expensive is $14.00.

Happy Cruising.

Hi Sharon

I got one and mine is fine, i would send a message to P & O or just give them a call i am sure they would send you another.

Hi Jenny

We went on NYE cruise and we had a balcony cabin on deck 10 and loved it. The railing balconies are on Deck 11 for the Suites only. They are a reasonable size balcony, i think you will appreciate it being solid because i spoke to some people who had the railing and they said they couldnt sit outside because it was too windy, ours was excellent not too windy and you could sit out there and still get sun, and if you just stretch a bit you can see over it, and it gives you a bit of privacy when you go into ports or when you are tending as i am one for leaving the blinds and door open while i am getting dressed and you cant see in, but all in all you dont feel hemmed in or anything i was quite happy with it.

Hope you have a good cruise.

Hey Penny

Please dont be disappointed, it isnt too bad, yes it is a steel panel in front of you but it was ok and i felt safer having that there instead of railings and nowhere near as windy, it was all good.

I think it would be helpful if P&O published the prices for the “add-ons” and “extras” to help cruisers (especially newbies) plan better. I can’t see a problem with publishing drink/spa prices for example. It might also lessen people’s disappointment when they get on board. Like everyone else I have read the cruise brochure and you get very excited by what’s on offer. I know that there is heaps of free stuff on board, but I’ve started dreaming about cocktails by moonlight and massages & facials everyday (the spa looks like heaven on earth). The reality is that I may not be able to afford all of these luxuries. If I knew the prices upfront I could budget for some of these things. I like to know what I’m in for. Just a thought P&O!

We have just been today and paid for our cruise departing 17 April – we are sooo excited, as are our kids 11 & 14. It is our first cruise together – although I did a contiki cruise late in the 80’s there is not many parts of that experience that I can share with my kids and alot that I don’t even remember!! My 14 year old is keen to play bingo – is it true that the kids can’t play due to gaming rules? Anyway enjoyed reading all the comments – good and bad – it has given us realistic expectations. I know we have are going to have the holiday of a life time.

Thanks for replying, makes me feel better about the balcony. Jenny

This one is for Simon who reads all the feedback but only answers the positive ones.what about Simon letting us know how they are fixing the long waits at the restaurants and quality of the boring food,The rude staff ,the long waits on the tenders ,the rip off prices on the duty free drinks, And charging to sit on deck where there are no kids,what sort of a joke is that. How about some answers on these complaints along with ALL the others I have read over the past month .Also where have the negative reports gone I read yesterday ,have they all of a sudden gone missing? Where the hell is P and O are they just going to keep ripping of the passengers and not say why? Come on Simon answer all the reports not just the goody ones from people who take it. I think I will stay and eat and drink in Australia, it will be cheaper.

Yes well?? we await to hear, this will be good

Hi! Grace & Charlie, Thanks for the info regarding the Waterfront Restaurant…will book it early. It is our friends first time cruising, so hope all goes well and they enjoy it.

We also did the recent 3 night sampler cruise on the Jewel. We were first time cruisers and had a wonderful time, my kids are 14 & 8 and the can’t wait to go again. Our only complaint was that we did not get a copy of our account, we were told that a copy would be left for us the night before we left the ship but it never came, we have called numerous time since and are told it needs to come from the ship, the staff in the P&O office can’t access it. So still we have no idea if we were charge correctly or not! In future I think I will pay by cash, giving them credit card details just makes it to easy for them.

Hi Cameron

No comments good or bad have been erased from this blog nor have they been edited prior to posting. Simon doesnt only answer the positve comments, he responds to both good or bad.

I think the food was pretty good ecspecially in the Waterfront Restaurant, the buffet was ok but after all it is only a buffet and i think for a buffet the range of food was pretty good. As for the staff, i never cam across 1 staff member who was rude and as for the tendering, we never had a problem going or coming back, yeh there was a little bit of a wait but nothing out of the ordinary that you would expect considering the amount of people.

I dont think P&O is standing by ripping off customers. It is clearly stated in writing in your book that you get when you get your tickets everything that is included and things you have to pay for if you had of taken the time to read it you would have been well aware of the extra charges.

P&O for the class of ship that it is i think it is excellent, yeh ok it might night be the best ship in the world but if you wanted some 5 star ++ ship you would pay for it. It wouldnt be in P&Os best interest to intentionally upset or rip off customers as the Australian market to them is very big and you know Aussies if they arent happy they make sure everyone will find out about it.

It is a shame that you didnt have a good time on your Cruise as we did, maybe you should tender your complaints to the powers to be at head office and see how you go as after all this is only a blog.

Good luck for your next holiday.

Cameron,

Not sure if you have noticed but the prices of their cruises have come down, thus becoming more affordable for familes (which is the market they are targeting now) !!!!!!!!!

In doing this, certain NEW features that are onboard have now had a charge or nominal fee against them which is indicated in their brochures (on-line & print) with the use of symbols & side notes at the bottom of the pages…….

Otherwise cruising would not become affordable……
It would be the same deal staying on an Island resort

BTW – I’m sure IF YOU WRITE a letter to P&O voicing your concerns, they will respond and then be able to provide you with answers if you don’t like their answer, then WHY NOT try their sister company – PRINCESS cruises (they are a 6 -7 star cruise ship line – maybe more your groups cup of tea)………………….. And No I do not work for P&O

Now how about Simon or someone of authority answering back instead of the past reply which means nothing to all the other people wanting answers.I will now get back on my high horse and wait.

DJ
If you read my message it is about lack of service , long ques rude staff,long waiting times etc etc not $$$$

We had NO waits at restaurants, NO wait for a ship’s tender (because we went early) and as everyone else has said, if you don’t like being with kids go on an old farts cruise!! I am in my sixties and my husband in his 70’s and we had a fabulous time. It is what you make it.

Well said! I am with you one hundred per cent!

Hey Jan

Thanks for that, i agree totally, i would be a very sad, lonely and tormented person if i had the same attitude as him.

Rachel & Craig.
Answer to your question regarding Bingo. You are not allowed to purchase tickets or play any Bingo games if under age of 18. Bingo is considered gambling and P & O do not encourage under 18’s to participate in any way. They do however provide game machines in other areas of the ship .

Cameron
So in your Feb 3 blog @ 7:30pm you didn’t indicate about passengers being charged a small $$$ fee just to sit in an area of the deck where there are no kids… I’ts just one of the new features offered, so, that’s not about the $$$$. So I’m guessing that you have never used the Business Lounge or Qantas club at the airport when you have travelled for business… It’s the same deal…………….

leaving march 2 around tassy . really excited about trip espcially my partner and 3 kids. great blog as it is very informative. does anyone know how auto tipping works. have been told by friends that have been on the dawn to have auto tipping removed from your account as soon as you board the ship .Not sure if the same on jewel. would there be any other extra cost that people are aware of that might be charged to account. with 5 people it can all add up. other than that cant wait. your views much appreciated

We are doing the July 28 cruise,have paid in full and NOTHING is going to spoil this first time cruise for us.I read these blogs almost daily and have long ago decided to take all the handy tips people are offering and store them away but I am not interested in destructive,negative feedback. Perhaps I am wrong but it seems to me some people have set the bar too high.What exactly do people expect for what really is a low price holiday?We will jump on the boat full of enthusiasm and friendliness and i know we will have a good time. Coming from Tassie and at the end of the cruise heading to the Gold Coast for a week and a half.This holiday has been too long in the making for us to be put off by a negative few. Also seems to me that this site should be for general chit chat and not long winded complaints about EVERYTHING. We still cant wait;roll on July

Just got off the Jewel – last Friday.
Enjoyed the hard work of Josh and his team. Almost all of whom were pleasant and reliable.
I think that Josh doesn’t have the biggest budget in the world to work with and does a great job. Also the Jewel has very lmited public space for the 2000 passengers rammed onto her (only built for about 1500 or so).
I’ve cruised before and some Cruise Directors are not nice….

That’s a fair call, Cam is only asking a question will P&O get back to him, let me see 50’s on they don’t
This is not from Debbie but from hubby Pete

Good people don’t take it to heart ,the man is only asking a question will P&O answer!!!!!!!!!! we await
Good luck Cam
From Pete Not Debbie

Hi Michelle n Mark
Have been reading all the blogs since Day 1 and even blogged myself in early January because I was so worried about negativity but long ago decided to ignore all that! We are booked for 10th March on our first cruise and I was so disappointed earlier in the blogs to read about the balconies on Deck 10 as this was to be a highlight for me as I love just sitting and looking at the sea – who needs massages (and lots of money) to destress! Thank you for positive comments re these balconies – and I’m VERY good at stretching!

Hey Guys,
Looks like we have some people blogging from the Jewel on it’s current cruise the IN THE SPOTLIGHT Discussion section….
If anyone has any questions / concerns It might be good to ask them what they have experienced.

Oh hi my name is Cameron and i feel like such a big man posting on this forum. I KNOW that everything i say is right, and i ALWAYS get what i want because i’m sooo HUGE. I like to post on the internet and be difficult because it makes me feel important, but its really because im too afraid to ring P&O up on the phone and ask them questions about cruises. Grow up mate, stop berating people and the Jewel (which clearly you know little about) and ring P&O and just ask them about your so called ‘qualms.’ you may find they have some perfectly acceptable answers, and solutions to you problems.

ps. im going on the Jewel on the 23rd, who else is coming? i KNOW im gonna have a KILLER time.

No let P&O answer back via this blog so all can see what they have to say, not to hard is it

Pete

Thankyou Debbie and Pete
All I want is a response from P and O how they are fixing all the problems that everyone is reporting on.If I had a eating problem or had a good time they would answer straight away.Why wont you (P and O) stand up and respond to the intending passengers with a resolve to the problems.

Has anyone noticed that the blog that had the chocolate recipe in the title has dissappeared. How convenient. So has anyone done the fors and against, notice the against outweighs the positives in this blog. Hey P&O get the hint

Hi John & Rose

Dont worry about the negative few comments on this blog. You guys are going to have a blast. We went onboard with an open mind and full of enthusiasm and friendliness as it seems you too are going to do and we just had the most awesome time. We didnt take our kids with us last cruise (22 & 21) but we are taking them this time, i told them they are coming wether they like it or not, because of how much of a good time we had.

Honestly, we couldnt complain about anything, yeh you had to wait in the Waterfront Restaurant but at the end of the day, who cares, you have got all the time in the world, your on holidays, relax.

The 2 things i heard people complaining about on our Cruise was “there was no Orange juice”. but hey there was Pineapple, Apple and Tomato or water and the other was “there are no Bananas”, seriously, there was Apples, Oranges, Watermelon, Pineapple!. I just laughed and thought to myself are you joking me, get a life, i could not believe people could even bother wasting their energy complaining about something as pathetic as that?

Hey, you guys have a fantastic time, i know you will, i cant wait to go again and hopefully, once i get the kiddies sorted will be booking this week, on the Pacific Jewel, cant wait.

Bon Voyage and Happy Cruising

Hey Pete

Dont take it to heart?

Yeh maybe we wouldnt if him and his pal Uncle Al stopped personally attacking me and other bloggers directly.

What have we done other than give positive comments to how we felt about our Cruise, which we seem to have more knowledge on given that we have already Cruised with Pacific Jewel which is more that i can say for Cameron as he seems to be commenting on something he hasnt even experienced for himself yet?

Go figure? Sure am glad i dont have form an opinion about something i have never experienced before, how miserable would i be?? 1 very sad person

Dear Michelle and Mark or should i say P and O.
I have cruised B4 with your line and the service great but look at the blogs for the Jewel and i want a response for all of them.I have rung P and O and they know of the problems so tell us all what they are doing.If you want me to stop messaging,STOP messaging back on my comments unless you are from your company. PS hello uncle Al

Hi Michelle & Mark, thanks for your feedback. The thing with us is that if we have to line up for a meal or whatever so be it! If there is no orange juice or whatever so be it! We just want to go with an open mind and enjoy the whole experience. First time overseas for us so a huge thrill.Its also sad that probably really nice people have resorted to name calling. People should not be ridiculed because of their name,called a dropkick,fool or uneducated hillbillies.Going a bit too far I think!! Perhaps this is where P & O should respond so that the heat can be taken out of this discussion. Hope when we return from our cruise we can report its all good. Cheers everyone

Hi Everyone

Happy Cruising to everyone who is due to Cruise this year on the Pacific Jewel, i absolutely know that you will have a fantastic time and will love it as my husband and i did, as it was our first time out of Australia and overseas we had absolutely no expectations other than to have fantastic holiday and great experience, that we sure did.

I choose a Cruise because i have some serious health issues and wanted to go on holidays but was too scared to travel independently in case something happened but with P&O i had the security of having a Medical Centre onboard and if anything happened i knew i could get immediate medical attention & fly home at any port. I also enjoyed the security of having a place to go back to each afternoon after each port and you know you have your own room, you have food being prepared for you and all you have to do is relax and enjoy it, and yes we definately did.

I cant thank P&O Pacific Jewel enough for the most fantastic experience of my life, you are the best and i cant wait to Cruise with you again.

Bon Voyage and Happy Cruising to all.
Michelle & Mark

Reading all these comments is making me reconsider our cruise on the Jewel. We have always cruised Princess and find it value for money. One blog said drinks in the Casino are a lot dearer than other bars. Can a rep from P&O confirm this please? Also what prices are we looking at for softdrinks? We are used to the kids card for softdrinks and as you can imagine this adds up for kids if you have to pay individually. Thanks

Cameron

I am not talking to you and if you want to read anything else into my comments other than i am a past passenger that just goes to show how ignorant you are.

All you are doing is making other people on this blog feel insecure about going on a Cruise with P&O so if you feel so much animosity against P&O i suggest you find anther Cruise to go on. You have not even been on the Pacific Jewel so you have absolutely no authority to comment on it!

I DONT work for P&O and if you have read all my comments i have absolutely not given any indication that i do and i just wish you can appreciate that actually just had a GOOD TIME!

Now do not reply to any more of my comments as my last comment was not directed to and i will not respond to yours!

Uncle Al

If you actually took the time to read this website properly you will find that the “Chocolate Recipe” has not disappeared as has no other “comments” good or bad disappeared, it is actually in the blog, under “Ships Featuers” and the Recipe is there titled “Chocolate Explosion”.

Perhaps you and your pal Cam need to read the website and get your facts right before sprucking off about something that you have absolutely no idea about!

Agree entirely Michelle. I have a Masters Degree and a six-figure salary so would not consider myself an uneducated hillbilly!! We are like you – we just had a ball, everything was fantastic and don’t let others make you feel concerned in any way. We have been on some of the best cruise ships across the globe but this cruise was as good – if not better – than any of them.

You rock Jim!! Way to go!

If you have an issue, take it up with P & O directly. I doubt they are going to help you out on here while your acting like a child.

could anyone please tell me if adults can purchase soft drink cards, many thanks

This is entertainment!! Just sitting back, having a wine – all this chit chat is much more exciting than watching tv – bring it on!!!

Hey P&O Team,

The Jewel looks an absolute treat everytime she sails under the Harbour Bridge,what tops it off though is sailing by the Sydney Opera House… AN ABSOLUTE JOY !!!!!!!!….. Has to be the prettiest harbour to sail out from, so looking forward to cruising on the Jewel in the next couple of months….Have enjoyed sailing on the SKY,SUN & the DAWN over a number of years.

If I could ask a small favour or better still a HUGE Favour of your team and please,please,please answer the queries or complaints from a couple of bloggers…It’s been interesting reading but getting a tad tired of these two bloggers remarks / cheap shots at passengers present or past …..

VERY UN AUSTRALIAN of those two………

I’m sure a nasty remark from one of these two bloggers will be headed my way shortly just because I have provided some positive comments / feedback towards the P&O company as has been their current trademark.

Thank You

Sorry it is suppose to read “They are probably” not “There are probably” but I am sure you all get my drift.

Hello Bloggers,
It’s been interesting reading so far,

So all these complaints (long queues for dinner – so being fed and watered on time is a major issue, noisy cabins – maybe someone’s having extra / pre marital fun – how naughty of them, rude staff (maybe a previous passenger may have said something to them or you were just plain rude with a particular comment made to them and they snapped)…
This slight noise may not have been able to be fixed until back in Sydney, it may well have been that there were no spare cabins available to move them to due to a FULL cruise.

So, all this moaning & groaning it seems about such trivial stuff RANKS higher in their world than – What’s going on in the REAL World.

* adults & young children suffering Leukemia / Cancer
* Earthquake in Haiti / Vanuatu Tsunami
* Black Saturday Bushfires anniverasry in Victoria.
*Death & destruction of teenage drivers lives on the Roads.
*Children living on the streets.

Gentlemen,(I use the term loosely) please ask some of those people who’s lives have been shattered by any one of these real world issues IF THEY THINK LONG Queues in a restaraunt should be priority NO.1 ………………

As I’m sure there will be someone’s famous retort …. UNLESS YOUR FROM P&O DON”T WASTE SPACE ON THIS BLOG

Get a Life , better still take a chill pill.

Here’s an Idea – speak to your travel agent with all your concerns
as they also have their P&O agent to speak to, that’s surely what YOU pay them to do, IS TO LOOK AFTER YOUR INTERESTS GOD Forbid (sorry folks I blasphemed)

John,
I totally agree with your comments sailing on Pacific Dawn last year under the Sydney Harbour Bridge & the harbour in general is something Sydney people should be proud of.It was a great experience.My wife & I hope to go on the Pacific Jewel.It is what you make of it on a cruise.

hey yes i will be going on the jewel on the 23rd looking forward to it, this will be my second cruise and hope that it will be as good as my last one

Well said. Couldnt have said it better myself.

CAMERON YOU ARE SOOO HUGE! ps. Tonos is a nickname, my real name is Anthony.

I am really looking forward to going on my cruise in two weeks. GONNA BE AWESOME. Me and three mates are all 20, any other young people heading off on the 23rd??? I hope CAMERON is, so we can bait him.

Have to agree with both John & Terry, how cool is it sailing under the Harbour Bridge, waving farewell to all those crazy people on top of the Bridge, who are waving back at us wishing or dreaming they were on board ..

Looking forward to sailing on the Jewel later in the year, even with all her faults (not sure I will be able to find any). It could be one of her silly faults that will bring some of the funnest memories of a fantastic cruise you had,describing it to friends & relo’s..

Ciao & Happy Cruising

Hey There Khloe,

Hope you & all your crew have a wonderful cruise from this weekend,have you been still counting down the days,hours,minutes.
A great time to get away from all this indifferent weather in Sydney.
Very weird seeing the Pacific Dawn docked @ the Overseas Passenger Terminal @ Circular Quay today (Monday) instead of her old berth @ Wharf 8………….

ENJOY

Please somebody how much for a beer

Hey Dave, yep we cant wait! only 5 more sleeps will definately be great to get away!

Beer prices say for a Corona are $6.95, think for other is about 5.95

Just to let you know, one guy got locked up on Australia Day for taking a swing at the Captain!! Verrry drunk. Be good!!!

Hi we are heading off on the 23rd, does anyone know what the theme night is going to be….counting down the days…

Just home from work are the blogs still going flat chat

Pete

we could be in for a good night

Hey Donna,

They usually have a number of theme nights,depending on the length of your cruise.
They range from
*Island theme (usually the night of your 1st port of call)
*Country & Western theme
*Rock & Roll theme
*Pirate theme (ties in with their Pirates of the South Pacific show)
*circus theme??? (may tie in with their circus show)
* cocktai night(s) (was known as their formal night – you can get dressed up if you wish – again number of these nights is determined by length of cruise)

Hope this helps

Lots of people have said what the theme nights might be but when do you find out what they are actually going to be on a particular cruise. If you don’t know before you leave home, how do you dress for the theme? Obviously don’t want to spend a fortune on the ship for costumes/props you’ll never use again. I’m heading out on 10th March.
Pam

Lots of people have said what the theme nights might be but when do you find out what they are actually going to be on a particular cruise. If you don’t know before you leave home, how do you dress for the theme? Obviously don’t want to spend a fortune on the ship for costumes/props you’ll never use again. I’m heading out on 10th March.
Pam

Hey Pam,
You will find out only when you get on board by reading the Ships Newspaper (Pacific Daily) each day. It advises you what the dress code for the night will be….
(Smart casual or Cocktail / formal or Island dress etc.).

Some of the theme nights in the past have been organised around the day’s that the Ship docks in port, giving you the opportunity to buy on shore (whilst doing some souvenir shopping or back on board the ship)..

But are you supposed to come in fancy dress costumes? Say it was Western or Rock and Roll. What would people wear?

Hey Pam,

For say Western night, you might wear – Jeans, checkered shirt , Straw hat & Bandana,
On one cruise I saw 4 guys dress up in Grass skirt & half coconut bikini tops for the Island night theme, It was an absolute scream, they were given a huge round of applause on deck !!!!!!

I’m sure you may be able to hire costumes whilst onboard, hopefully someone may be able to confirm that you can do this or even give the guys at P&O a call, who may be able to point you in the right direction

Pam, you dont have to dress up unless you want too. Most people usually do the island night as that is easy. You can buy a lei on the island which is usually about $5. They also have them onboard. If you have a sarong you can wear that or buy one on the island. They are usually about $15. Western night you just wear jeans and a shirt (checked if you have it or just a button up shirt) and may be scarf tied around your neck. I wouldnt worry too much about the other nights unless you really want to. Have fun

I agree with cameron actually.. i haven’t read many if any replies to neg. posts.. it’s very very obvious that they are being ignored..

I just rang P&O about the theme nights and they said that there are three standard theme nights on every cruise over 10 days in duration: hawaiian, rock&roll and country & western. There is also a cocktail night on each cruise. This might help anyone wanting to plan their costumes. I know that I’d rather dig through my wardrobe rather than buy new stuff. I’m sure I have an old checked shirt in there somewhere!

Hi James,Ive tried so hard not to comment on this,but I feel that your not even being honest with yourself.Im under the impression that you blog under a few other names such as Dj,John,need I go on?Yes I agree with you,about all the troubles in the world,@ I do think that everyone is entitled to voice their opinion,on how good or bad their travels may have been!Im sure that your a NICE GUY,with all your comments,so please dont take this the wrong way.May all your future travels be good,exciting,and saviour the memories like I have with my Family and Friends.You never know maybe one day we might even be on the same cruise.Take care,yours sincerely Natalie

Hi Rachel and Craig,
To answer your question re bingo, My husband and I were recently on PJ and had a fantastic time with our two children 16 and 12 and loved BINGO. It is true the rules state that no one under the age of 18 can purchase the tickets for bingo but both my children came in with us and just loved the atmosphere and enjoyed watching us play. Hope you have a fantastic time !

Hey Tonos, Mum and I are off on the 23rd. Since you and your mates are soooo young let us know if you need any mummy help LOL. This is my 2nd cruise and mums 1st. both so excited. really are counting down the days.

Went on a 10 nighter but only one theme night – Island night. Lots of people brought western gear along but didn’t use it.

Hoping to squeeze an extra cruise in this year, thinking of doing Tropical Queensland Cruise,
Appreciate any thoughts or recommendations, & is it better sailing from Sydney or Brissie..

Sydney is a beautiful city to sail out of. Not sure what Brisbane is like.

Dave,

The Dawn sails from the terminal upriver from the gate way bridge on the Brisbane River. The terminal is not far from the Brisbane airport, or the mouth of the river and then into Moreton Bay.

Thanks David & Vicki,

Now to decide, the JEWEL or the DAWN ????, have either of you done the Tropical Qld Cruise, if you have would love to know your thoughts on the cruise as well as anyone alse out there.

Happy Cruising to all

Dave,

No I haven’t. Have got some friends that are booked to go in August. And we are booked to sail on the Jewel for our first cruise in May.

No sorry Dave I havent been on that cruise either. Have been on the Dawn twice and an booked to go on the Jewel in November/December. I am doing back to back cruises. I think you will have fun no matter what you do and no matter which ship you go on

Have read the comments on what to wear for theme nights but what about the formal night? Do men have to wear a suit? My hubby is baulking at the idea! Will a pair of tidy trousers, shirt and tie suffice?

Hi Annie
A nice pair of tidy trousers , good dress shirt & tie (if he wishes) will do.P&O have toned down the real formal nights (black tie) to be more cocktail style (good dress clothes). The suit just takes up a little too much extra space in your suitcase. Hope this helps

Hello everyone,
I believe there are “designated smoking areas” on the Jewel. My question: Is there one on every deck ? Hope someone can help

Thanks Dave. That has made him very happy!

Usually you can smoke portside on lido deck and on deck 7 outside were the lifeboats are.

Hi Denise
We came off the jewel this year,i totally agree public space is way to small.P&0 its about time you invested in a brand new ship for the Australian who have supported you through th 75 years.I will not cruise on the Jewel again get rid of it,Mutton dressed up as sheep.

Thanks Charlie

Shaz & Baz,
How was the NZ cruise interested in your comments.
Hope you had a great time & understood the Kiwi Lingo.

Yes the positives outway as you say, maybe because there all made by the same couple, look further mate, its obvious

Hey Cam any news from P&O

Pete

come on 28 March PJ look out

The Pacific Jewel have a pirate night and and island night as the theme nights – most people get dressed up and supplies are avaliable for purchase on Board.

Can I suggest that they need more daytime activities on board ie: craft, etc I remember the Pacific Dawn having better activities!

we are going on the 28th March too and we can’t wait