Reviews & Ratings for the Ventura

On August 24, a contingent of 15 activists from Extinction Rebellion took to the waters in a bold attempt to obstruct the docking of the cruise liner 'Ventura' in Rotterdam. Utilizing boats and canoes, they positioned themselves strategically to block a berth near the iconic Hotel New York. Despite their efforts, law enforcement intervened, ultimately arresting two of the protesters. This demonstration temporarily delayed the 'Ventura's' docking procedure by about half an hour. The vessel had set sail from Southampton on August 23 and ventured to Rotterdam as part of a short cruise itinerary that included an overnight stay at the port, as well as a scenic day at sea traversing the North Sea and the English Channel. With a capacity for 3,100 guests, the 'Ventura' continues to be a prominent player in the cruise industry.

On August 21, 2025, a medical emergency prompted the cruise ship 'Ventura' to call for assistance, requiring the medevac of a British crew member 22 nautical miles west of Fisterra. The fast response of the CCS Fisterra of Salvamento Marítimo led to the deployment of the SAR helicopter Helimer 402. The helicopter successfully hoisted the ailing crew member from the ship and transported him to Alvedro airport in A Coruña. Upon landing, an ambulance was on standby to ensure the crew member received immediate medical attention at a local hospital, capable of providing the higher level of care required.

On August 9, 2025, the cruise ship Ventura was forced to undergo an emergency evacuation in Southampton after a man made a threatening claim regarding an explosive device. The incident unfolded at the Mayflower Cruise Ferry terminal, prompting immediate action from local authorities. Hampshire Police promptly established a 200-meter exclusion zone around the vessel and the terminal to facilitate a thorough investigation. The situation escalated as specialist officers conducted a search, notably addressing concerns related to a suspicious vehicle in the vicinity. Following these measures, a man was taken into custody on grounds of allegedly communicating false information, as well as a public order offense. After an extensive search operation, law enforcement concluded their investigation, confirming that no explosive device was found. Consequently, Hampshire Police lifted the cordon, and operations at the port returned to normal. For further details, refer to the report including a visual update here: https://www.itv.com/news/meridian/2025-08-09/cruise-ship-evacuated-after-suspicious-activity.

On February 24, 2025, a bold initiative by climate activists to obstruct the departure of the cruise ship 'Ventura' at Amsterdam's Passenger Terminal (PTA) was sidestepped by law enforcement. The activists, equipped with flags and Bengal lights, aimed to navigate their two sloops into the space between the PTA quay and the sizable vessel to make a statement regarding the environmental footprint of cruise vacations. However, the plan was foiled when police anticipated the protest, swiftly removing three boats from the area to ensure the ship's safe passage. Despite the activists' attempts to regroup and draw closer to the cruise liner on the IJ river, their efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. The 'Ventura', which had arrived in Amsterdam after departing from Southampton, continued its journey the following day, February 25. For more details and a photo of the event, visit the original report: https://www.parool.nl/amsterdam/politie-grijpt-in-bij-xr-blokkade-van-cruiseschip-bij-passenger-terminal-amsterdam~b8aba30f/

In a concerning development, the 'Ventura', operated by P&O Cruises, has experienced a norovirus outbreak impacting several passengers. The ship issued a ship-wide announcement urging guests to avoid gathering in large groups and advising those exhibiting symptoms of gastroenteritis to remain in their cabins. While the precise timing of the outbreak remains unclear, it was confirmed that the 'Ventura' had just returned to Southampton after completing a round trip to Spain and Portugal on December 5. P&O Cruises implemented immediate measures to ensure passenger safety, leading to a slight delay before the vessel was able to set sail again. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges maritime operators face in managing health and safety on board.

On September 3, the vessel 'Ventura', while navigating from Santander to Lisbon, issued a call for an emergency medical evacuation 22 nautical miles northeast of Estaca de Bares. In response, the CCS Fisterra of Salvamento Marítimo promptly deployed the SAR helicopter Helimer 204. The helicopter successfully hoisted the elderly passenger and ensured a swift transfer to A Coruña airport, where an ambulance was ready to transport him to a local hospital for urgent medical care.