I chose this cruise as my first solo cruise although I have cruised with P&O many times before. I was particularly looking forward to the chance of seeing the aurora borealis as this cruise spends three days at the very northern tip of Norway so the chance of seeing the lights is quite good.
We left Southampton after completing health check forms and having our temperature taken and all seemed well. The coronavirus outbreak was in its early stages and some people were wondering if we would get our holiday or not.
The North sea was a little rough but Aurora coped admirably. By the second day on board rumours were swirling about the cruise being cancelled as Norway was closing its ports and these were confirmed later by the Captain. The Captain and crew handled the situation extremely well. We were kept informed at all stages about what was happening and each cabin received £400 on-board spending money. Most passengers, although disappointed, appeared to be dealing with the news of the cancellation well. There were of course the inevitable moaners but some people will always moan. Over and above the £400 per cabin spending money, P&O also gave everyone a full 100% refund.
The cabin was the smallest one I have ever been in with P&O.
On the ship I use a collapsible motorised wheelchair and I have to be able to pull this into my cabin. The cabin was so small that once the wheelchair was folded up and pulled inside, it was not possible to use the bathroom!
The cabin was well appointed just tiny! I asked if it was possible to be upgraded as the ship was not full and was advised that an upgrade would be payable.