P&O’s newest superliner offers the opportunity for every indulgence. Incorporating all the latest innovations, child-free Arcadia provides an inspirational cruising experience for today's passenger. Her spacious and modern public rooms and decks offer a wealth of opportunities for relaxation and leisure. The array of eclectic dining options and an impressive three-tier theatre make Arcadia a truly forward looking superliner. Striking in every sense, Arcadia has sparkling glass lifts that glide down her gleaming exterior and features the most hedonistic spa afloat, giving her a 'wow' factor that's irresistible. Kathy and Sarah were invited onboard the Arcadia in April 2005 to look at the facilities. Read their report below to find out more, or call us on 0845 086 9710 or 0121 250 2211 to book your holiday cruise on the Arcadia.
First Impressions Arriving at Southampton’s quayside we were awestruck when we first saw with the enormous, white Arcadia. The majority of the outside cabins have balconies, which give the impression of a gigantic floating hotel.
Lobby
Stepping on board, we were greeted by a line of smiling, uniformed crew who warmly welcomed us. The impressive lobby is subtly decorated with calm, neutral colours and lit with a beautiful glass sky dome.
Cabin
We were shown to our outside stateroom cabin and immediately went to our balcony to take in the view. The good sized balcony is accessible by patio doors and housed two comfortable padded chairs and a small coffee table, perfect for partaking in a small aperitif before dinner and enjoying the scenery.
The cabin provided two ample twin beds, dressing table, small fridge plus a two-seater sofa with a coffee table, television and hairdryer. There was generous wardrobe space and a bathroom decorated in beige with a decent sized, full bath. Leisure Facilities
The Arcadia boasts one of the most expansive Spas afloat, complete with a hydrotherapy pool and thermal suite. This calming, tranquil area has attractive heated loungers, ideal for relaxing in while waiting to use any of the excellent treatment rooms, which offer a wide variety of spa treatments from sensual body and head massage, revitalising body wraps, hot stone therapy and much more. Arcadia's thermal suite offers three steam rooms and aromatic jet showers. Offering dry, wet and aromatic treatments, it is a great place to bask in the warmth and unwind. These purifying treatments are great for the skin and respiratory organs, as well as being deeply relaxing.
The Arcadia has two large swimming pool areas. The Neptune pool has a retractable sky dome allowing for all climate changes and the Aquarius pool is of a reasonable size with plenty of deck area and loungers. The sports deck offers an excellent choice of activities.
Wandering around this elegant ship there were many quiet corners with plenty of seating for relaxing, perfect for winding down with a good book. The walkways and public areas are adorned with over 3,000 works of art by contemporary British artists, which can be purchased.
Restaurants
The Arcadia offers an eclectic and exciting range of restaurants to get your taste buds tingling round the clock.
The Meridien is a stunning and beautifully laid out over two floors. There is plenty of space between the tables and daylight pours in through the large scenic windows. The attentive service was not obtrusive and the evening meal was delicious.
The Belvedere Food Court
With a wide choice of menus from Oriental and Italian to bistro-style dishes and a delicatessen counter, this stylish and modern venue is the place to go for casual dining any time of the day or night. Light and airy, the décor has a soft, calm Japanese theme and is furnished with outside seating so you can opt to dine alfresco. However, we felt this restaurant was a little like a cafeteria.
The Orchid Restaurant
Located at the top of the ship, the Orchid Restaurant offers panoramic views and an informal atmosphere. It offers an exciting menu with Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Indian influences.
Bars
The Arcadia has 14 bars, a nightclub, casino and a three-tier casino, so there is plenty of entertainment to suit any taste from the Piano Bar to the livelier Globe Bar to the Electra Nightclub.
Summary
The contemporary décor and striking design was certainly very impressive. The Arcadia is a childfree ship offering a myriad of opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation and socialising.
In 2006, the Arcadia is offering a wonderfully varied itinerary and will make the perfect base to explore the Mediterranean, the Fjords or sunny Caribbean. Whether you choose a 4 night Cruise Break or join Arcadia for a journey through the Panama Canal to the sights of Mexico and beyond, there is something for everyone. Cruise bookings are now available over a year in advance and with early booking discounts.
