This was my best vacation ever! Alaska and SanFrancisco were terrific! It was my first time in both places, but it won't be my last.
This review is way too long, and you can't save it and come back later. You need to allow the writer to do it in stages(unless they have a lot of free time).
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Despite the number of people on this cruise we were processed through and in our cabin in under 90 minutes. On a previous cruise, it took close to 4 hours!!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The DaVinci and Michelangelo dining rooms were elegant and beautifully appointed. Everyone from the head waiter to the table attendants did their best to make us feel welcome and we were never rushed to finish our meals so someone else could be seated, The menu offered a variety of appetizers, entrees, and deserts. All of the food is fresh and prepared daily, from eggs to dinner rolls, pastries to pheasant. Everything was beautifully presented and delicious.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
I tried using the fitness center but was unsuccessful because the equipment I wanted to use was being used.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The cruise director and his staff made sure there was something for everyone. We played trivia games that had subjects from Michael Jackson's music to people who had the same letter first and last names letter names. There was a Totem pole carver who actually had an ongoing carving. He spoke about the art of carving and the meanings of totem poles. We went to a wine tasting and listened to a naturalist speak about Alaska, the natural wonders in the area, and the indigenous people of the area. We had a visit from a dog sled driver and his puppies who were breed to run the Iditarod. There were several art auctions, contest, and competitions, lounge singers and musicians, and my favorite, a cooking demonstration with a tour of the galley.
Children's Programs
I had no reason to know about children's programs.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our room steward was very responsive to the request I made. I had a heating/cooling issue, and when I told Eduardo my problem, someone came to repair it that evening. His daily attention to our cabin made us happy to return at the end of the evening. We attempted to be seated in the same area each meal because we enjoyed the waiters, Hilton and Vlad(his trainee), they were very attentive, and personable. The waiters who served us in the other areas of the dining room did their job, but for us, it was not quite the same. The head waiters always greeted us when we entered the dining room, always making us feel welcome.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The Grand Princess was always very clean. The Public restrooms were well maintained. Staff was busy making sure all areas were clean.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was comfortable and Eduardo kept it clean and tidy. I didn't feel it was too small, after all, we were only there to sleep and change clothes.
Ship tip
Take advantage of Afternoon Tea. It's a good replacement for lunch, and the scones and sandwiches are delicious.
We stayed in San Francisco five days after the cru!ise and had a blast! We used Great Pacific Tours and did several excursions while there. GPT is the best!
Enjoyed the visit to the Totem Pole Park. The scenery was beautiful and the guide informative. My husband enjoyed the Lumberjack Show (me, not so much). Eating fish and chips at a local restaurant was enjoyable
If you like sea days...I would recommend the round trip San Francisco to Hawaii cruise...lots of restful days at sea...and no airline foolishness...I personally love it
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