I guess alongside the more casual blog, I’m going to have to keep up with some actual reviews of the places and things I do.

So, this is what I thought of the mighty sea ferry Princess Seaways.

Now, when it comes to ferry trips, I’m somewhat of a virgin. I was told about the DFDS notorious party boat, and now I’ve seen it first-hand.

A Cabin Fit for a Pirate

The cabin is perfect for one. A toilet, shower and a bed — what more does a single person need?

The cabin does have a pull-down bunk, which I’m glad is empty for my voyage. But if it were filled with a sea-hardened mate, I’m sure it would be a fun time.

First Port of Call: Duty Free

For my first port of call, as any holidaymaker knows, it’s the duty-free shop.

I was amazed at the amount of stuff they had. Cigarettes and alcohol are a given, but there’s also a full clothing shop, kids’ toys, perfumes and electronics.

So don’t worry if you’ve literally forgotten everything you packed — it can all be purchased here at the Sea Shop.

Feeding the Crew

Onto feeding.

I think the buffet would be the budget option for food, but nonetheless, it was perfectly adequate at around £30 each if you pre-book.

The Explorer’s Kitchen is well named, with food to explore from all over the world. It’s made to a decent standard and, more importantly, it’s all you can eat.

That makes it a smart option to load up before the evening entertainment begins.

Bingo, Bongos and Everything In Between

There are cinemas and even its very own mini arcade, with classics like driving games, air hockey and the punch bag.

For the adults, slot machines and roulette machines are dotted around, so it feels as though you’re never more than 20 feet from gambling away all your holiday money.

On each level there are multiple bars, from the Navigator’s Pub to the Columbus Bar. And if you’re up for braving the sea wind, the Sky Bar inhabits the outside rear of the boat.

The Party Boat

The massive communal areas are filled with the bustle of excited holidaymakers.

Live music fills the gaps, with two stages, so I’m sure there is a music style for everyone.

And if not, there has been bingo and a rather enthusiastic music quiz, which saw contestants running up to the dance floor to shout out the answers.

Everyone is kept well within the high spirits.

Talking of high spirits, there are many fully stocked bars. As a cider drinker, I didn’t try much else, but I have seen cocktails, wine and many different bottled beers.

Heineken seems to be the winner, though.

A View of the Sea

Everywhere you look, the whole ship has amazing panoramic views out over the expansive waters.

It really makes you feel like you’re in a perfect cocoon of safety.

That feeling disappears somewhat as you move outside.

There are plenty of outdoor areas for smokers, or anyone who just wants a break from the almost-club feeling of the bar areas.

A Bit of Peace and Quiet

In the quieter moving areas, such as the stairs leading up and down the ship, you’ll find the toilets, seating looking out over the sea and also many models of past ships for the history buffs.

On the walls are maps showing you how to quickly get back to the bar if you wander too far.

Which, let’s be honest, could be useful.

Hats Off to DFDS

Even with the feeling of an under-30s nightclub on water, the care and dedication to recycling is admirable.

Each bin has split sections for different types of rubbish, which really puts the UK to shame, I must say.

And it would be very easy for them not to bother.

The Verdict

All in all, I’m impressed at what is offered.

Really, none of it has to be here. This is simply a way to get to Europe other than by flying, but DFDS have really taken every opportunity to keep morale up and the mutiny to a minimum.

Well done, DFDS.

Now, where’s that bar?