Have travelled with Brittany from Pompey to St. Malo Wednesday night mostly for the last decade and a bit (except last year, late night P & O and won't be doing that again), returning either from Caen or Cherbourg on the Monday after the race.
Although Brittany are comparatively expensive it's the best trip for our travel needs, coming from the West (well, Wales actually...).
The Pompey to St Malo crossing always used to be on the Bretagne, and we have always found the atmosphere on board in the bar to be convivial and lively. This year they have changed the boat (more like a cruise liner really) to the Val de Loire. This is even larger than the Bretagne. The on board atmosphere seemed strangely subdued in comparison to previous years - maybe due to the very different layout. The 'entertainment' was very much standard Brittany fare, with a magic/illusionist act followed by a band. I don't really think that the audience took the p*ss enough out of the cabaret….. A sure sign of the difference in atmosphere.
Was also disappointed not to see any entertainment on the return crossing. I too have fond memories of the fella with the organ (oo er missus) and the accompanying harpist(e?) – what a bizarre combination. But to their credit they were always ready to enter into the spirit with the returning Le Mans crowd.
Agree with Andy Z that the fare in the self service is, and always has been, quite inedible, accompanied by very surly service. Next year we are planning a bit of a slap up meal in the ‘Restaurant’ by way of a change and to improve our chances of keeping it down for more than a couple of hours. It has always looked pretty reasonable (apart from the prices) – anyone care to comment on the quality of the A La Carte?
Have never had any problems with embarking etc. but have always travelled in a car, with no trailer/van or other appendage. Sorry to hear about your problems Rick.
