Since our new airport, Hannover, offers far fewer flights to London than Geneva, we are now driving (ugh) to the UK to see the kiddies. We’d splashed out and taken the train which was easy with a plentiful lounge, although after reading recent reviews, we may have just gotten lucky. This trip, we opted to really make the drive as long as possible and take the ferry across the channel. We went with P&O and booked a morning timeslot. After a restless night’s sleep in France, we drove onto the ferry and headed straight for the lounge which we pre-booked.

Thinking it would be an airport style free-for-all, we were pleased to be some of the first cars on the boat and made a beeline for the comfy seating in the surprisingly spacious and clean lounge on the 9th floor of the ferry. Quite literally, there were three other parties in the lounge, making it nearly empty. The staff seemed to know that too and placed out a small, though thoughtful breakfast offering seemingly just for the exact number of registrants. After a wander around the ship, the food was quickly cleared away.

Foodwise, there were a handful of croissants, a paltry full English, and maybe a bit of fruit and yogurt. The drink offerings included espresso machines, fountain soda (amazing after the night prior’s red wine), and surprisingly beer, wine, and spirits. If you were making the crossing an event and had a designated driver, this is likely where you can make your money on the 30 GBP per person price tag. If you’re like us and thought you were there for food, coffee, fountain Diet Coke by pleasant surprise, and maybe a drink for a photo op, the lounge wasn’t really worth the money. Food offering is plentiful on the ferry and it’s pleasant to sit outside and take in the sea air with the Cliffs of Dover view.

In conclusion, while the lounge was clean and spacious, I wouldn’t spend the money to book it again. Save the funds and take the train to save two hours in your day.