This was our first cruise. Thirteen nights from Melbourne, Australia, with many ports of call around the country of New Zealand, then back to Melbourne. A very relaxing voyage even with all the activities. The excursions can wear a person out but they are so exciting, you are urged to carry on.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Embarkation has been studied and implemented into real world application. The people at Princess displayed true professionalism during the whole embarkation experience. It seemed like a long process but really less than a couple of hours at most. It was complete and thorough. Once through, you are on the ship and the journey begins. ALL ABOARD!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
I'll be generous and go all out. Good would have been a fair grade but excellent says it better. We frequented the ships specialty restaurants and each were very good. Comparable to high class restaurants on land. The food was impeccable and the service cannot be beat. But after trying the specialty restaurants we went for the buffets. For us, that is where the ships shines. There was so much food to choose from nobody can go away unsatisfied. To top off that great meal, take your choice of multiple deserts. Go ahead it's all free and all you want. Please excuse me now, I'm full!
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Sorry we can't comment on all of the activities on board the ship, there are just too many. It should be mentioned we spent Christmas and New Years on board. There were parties for all ages going on all over the ship. On a personal note, we can opine to shopping in the shops, watching movies on the outdoor screen, and just strolling all over the ship. It was lovely!
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The shows were spectacular, even the ones we didn't care for. It's just so professional the way they present everything. There are live stage shows, concerts, and we even went to an indoor theater to watch a movie.
Children's Programs
I did not participate in any of the children activities.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
I have never been to a more friendly atmosphere where all the employees are so kind and thoughtful.
It's like they anticipate what you need and are there before you ask for help. Most all of the employees on board are Filipino where English is a spoken language. There were others from different parts of the world, just as friendly as them all.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
I tried to stroll to every part of the ship as I could and even as I saw workers painting and polishing everything, they just couldn't couldn't rub hard enough to make the brass shine any brighter.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Our cabin attendant was a Filipino named Frenchy. He was more than adequate in his work and very friendly. The cabin was always very clean and functional. Frenchy must have worked at least 12 hour days. He was always there when needed, and if he was not, he was only a phone call away.
Ship tip
I hope you are not in any hurry because you are in for one nice experience. Enjoy every moment for even if it is a long cruise, it is over before you realize. Afterward, you are ready for another cruise. I know I am!
Oh, and bring a camera.
Smooth and easy. We had passage on a bus to the airport. Made it much better than trying to catch a cab on the pier. Attendants collect your bags at your room the night before an carry them down to a place on the pier. Super easy for everyone.
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