Ramblings of a Salty Seadog

In the early 1970’s P&O changed track from voyages and started to concentrate on the cruise market. In 1973 Oriana was converted from a...

When I joined Oriana in November 1973 we were due to set sail on a five week voyage to Australia. Everything was new to me on joining my...

Arrival at the Panama Canal always involves an early start for the ship’s company. Usually arriving very early morning. For the Purser’s...

When taking up a career as a P&O Pursers officer back in the 70’s, you were not just signing up to pen push and count cash you were also...

As catering assistant on Oriana back in 1973 part of my job involved checking the provisions along with the storekeeper and butcher as...

There was always great excitement on deck when two P&O ships pass by in open water. Mediterranean cruising in 1974 Nevasa passes by...

All the booze and tobacco onboard ship was duty free so on arrival in certain ports of call the main booze and tobacco storerooms would...

When I joined SS Oriana as my first ship in 1973, I was informed that a ship was like a floating city and with almost all services...

Joining Oriana back in I973 as a junior assistant purser I did not realise the extent that I would be involved with entertaining the...

Having set sail on my maiden voyage as Junior Assistant Purser on Oriana in November 1973 we headed out of Southampton, after a brief...

What a treat to leave Pago Pago in America Samoa early in 1974. Flower petals are sprinkled over Oriana from the cable car as she departs...