On Board the MV Discovery

MV Discovery

Now in their fourth year, Cruise and Maritime are a UK based cruise line that offer a traditional British cruise experience. They are committed to providing attentive and friendly service with a 'home from home atmosphere', proving to be a winning combination.

I recently spent five nights on the Discovery ship and I enjoyed my cruise very much. On arriving at Avonmouth for embarkation we were greeted by staff from the ship, who are extremely friendly with huge smiles. I booked a superior outside cabin that is in midships on deck four. The cabin is roomy and was very clean throughout with two single beds and a modest bathroom. Just a tip – the ship has European plug sockets so don’t forget your adapter!

Following a thorough muster station roll call the ship set sail for the five-night voyage to Dublin, Scilly Isles, Guernsey and Falmouth.

The Seven Continents restaurant on board the ship was very pleasant, with helpful, courteous, and on-the-ball staff. There is a good selection of both starters and main courses, and after dinner coffee was included in the costing.

There is also a buffet style restaurant on deck called the Lido nine offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. This area is quite casual but great for taking advantage of complimentary tea/coffee throughout the day. There is also a small restaurant that serves dinner in the evening. There is no cover charge for dining here but it is not very well advertised and reservations had to be made, so make it your mission to hunt this place down. Wherever you choose to eat there is a great variety on the menu to suit all tastes!

The Carousel Lounge hosts a brilliant array of shows and both the entertainment staff and the Cruise Director were just superb. Each evening there is a different performance after dinner and all the seats are always occupied.

Shore excursions are well organised as are the tender arrangements. With stops throughout the Irish Sea, cruising on the Discovery makes for a great way to supplement some of the most beautiful parts of Britain and Ireland.

The ship includes a wealth of facilities to keep you occupied between ports of call with everything from the salon to the gym and the swimming pool. Also, the ship provides plenty of open seating where you can put your feet up and admire the views on this coastline-hugging voyage.

The Discovery is a little dated but immaculate throughout and provides excellent friendly, professional service. I would recommend this ship to any first time cruise goers and anybody looking for a pleasant, affordable package with great itineraries.