Quality and cost - cabins, pods and reclining seats

Respondents tended to be positive about the quality of cabins, with references to them being clean and comfortable. Any concerns tended to relate to them being small or in need of upgrading. There were also suggestions that noise can be an issue.

The high cost of cabins was an issue for some respondents because the inability to book a berth in a shared cabin means that single travellers have to book a larger cabin than they need. The current pricing structure was also seen as contributing to the capacity problem since inside 4-berth cabins are cheaper than outside 2-berth cabins.

While the feedback around cabins was generally positive, this was not the case for the overnight pods, with descriptions including that they are not fit-for purpose. Specific issues raised included that pods are uncomfortable, particularly for taller passengers, that there is very limited space between pods, and that there is a lack of privacy. Similar issues were raised in relation to reclining seats, including that they are uncomfortable and, like the pods, do not allow the user to lie flat or to sleep.

Price relative to cabins was one of the positive reasons given for choosing a reclining seat or a pod, with a ‘Local authority or transport partnership’ respondent seeing pods as a good mid-price option, providing improved passenger comfort while using space efficiently. Some respondents saw reclining or standard seats as an acceptable budget option with a view that they are preferable to pods.