The information we received was that the ship was only about 2/3rds full, which certainly could reflect on our generally positive review.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
We've cruised 8 times previously with Princess, and this cruise seemed to add more new dishes. Especially the Caribbean food choices were all good. There are three sections (not just 2) of the buffet, and the aft section (labeled "Planks BBQ" or "Steamers") is the least busy. Formal nights seemed less formal than on other Princess cruises; many men were without tie or coat.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The steel drum class was unique and fun. The port lecturer, Kez, was okay but not as good as we've had before. The adults' only pool is somewhat difficult to find - located in the aft beyond the buffet.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Don't show up at the last minute for an evening show; the theater fills early. The Fantastic Journey evening show had state-of-the-art technology and elaborate costumes, but the music wasn't appropriate for the elderly audience. Other stage shows were typical for Princess (generally quite good).
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
You can ask to have an assigned dining table in the evening dining rooms. This permits getting to know the same wait staff.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The ship has a typical Princess layout. Medallion technology helps to locate others in your party.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We've always had excellent stewards with Princess and Ronaldo was no exception.
Ship tip
If you're up to it, climbing stairs is always better than the busy elevators.
Once we found the parking garage entrance, the rest is easy. It is best to Cruise out of and back into Terminal 2. For driving note that the parking garage is listed as Terminal 2/4, and also known called the "Heron Garage".
"Partial transit" is confusing. What it means is the ship goes through the gulf-side locks, drops anchor in Gatun Lake, and allows folks to depart via water transfer for excursions. The ship then makes the reverse trip through the locks and docks in Cristobal for excursion folk to rejoin the ship. It is possible to walk off the ship in Cristobal.
The contrast between Jamaica and Grand Cayman is extreme. It felt like traveling from a developing country to the "life of the rich and famous". There are a surprising number of nice excursions here. We enjoyed a tour circling the island to taste rum, visit a town called "Hell", stop to view ship wrecks and blow holes, and dip a toe on a starfish beach.
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