Terrific cruise around New Zealand

Dawn Princess Cruise Review to South Pacific - Australia

Cruises: 2-3 cruises
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 39

Overall rating:

4.3 out of 5
Dawn Princess

13 Night New Zealand (Melbourne Roundtrip)

Sail date: February 18, 2014

Ship: Dawn Princess

Cabin type: Balcony

Traveled as: Singles/Friends

Reviewed: 10 years ago

Review summary

I had a great time on the Dawn Princess.  Being a solo cruiser, I was in the minority, most others being couples or even large groups cruising together.  It didn't matter, I met many friendly people and was never lonely.  There were so many activities that my only problem was selecting what to do at a certain time.  Same with the menu at any eating venue.  I don't usually eat four or five courses but the cuisine was so delicious I couldn't help myself. I love seafood so I couldn't pass up lobster, mussels, prawns (shrimp), barramundi, all cooked to perfection. But everyone was catered for, mouth watering filet mignon, vegetarian dishes, you name it. The head waiter on my table, Daniel, was from Romania. He knew everything on the menu, suggested wines with all selections, and was a perfect and delightful host. I had a balcony room and sat out there with a glass of shiraz enjoying the view. Since I was by myself I could choose whether to have company or alone time. The Dawn is not a new ship and is showing it's age but the crew work nonstop maintaining it.  I will do another cruise before the year is out.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
The food was excellent

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

Entertainment

3 out of 5

Children's Programs

Not Applicable

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

3 out of 5
Great shape for its age

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5

Ship tip

Internet is expensive. If you have a laptop or electronic device that you can use offline, write your email, then go on the internet to send it. Hygiene - I brought my own hand sanitizer and used it often. With so many people packed together on a ship you are more susceptible to catch something.

Ports of call

Melbourne, Australia

3 out of 5

Cruise Fjordland National Park

1 out of 5
Cancelled due weather

Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand

5 out of 5
Loved Speights Brewery

Akaroa, New Zealand

3 out of 5
Raining but nice place

Wellington, New Zealand

5 out of 5
Loved Zealandia

Napier, New Zealand

5 out of 5
Magnificent Art Deco

Tauranga, New Zealand

5 out of 5
Walk Mount Maunganui

Auckland, New Zealand

3 out of 5
Typical large city

Traveler Photos

Dinner in the Florentine dining room
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