So relaxing and enjoyable. First time cruising solo as my travel partner was stuck in a foreign country on a business venture. I did things I have wanted to do in the past, and tried some a couple new adventures. The Princess crew is a delight. A secret pleasure is watching old Love Boat episodes on-board. Only four were available on TV, but nice memories. Looking forward to my next adventure in March.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
I was on board and at the buffet before noon. Fastest ever!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Buffets were always good with a terrific selection, and some theme meals. The final at sea day breakfast contained more chocolate items then I knew existed. I like the lunch buffets which served special items (i.e., leftovers) from the previous night's main dining room menu. The beef medallions and lobster tails stand out as special lunch buffet treats. I watched a young boy ahead of me get six (small) lobster tails. Main dining room service was impeccable.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
While Princess may not have the WOW factor of other lines, the activity selection is quite nice, and covers a large spectrum of tastes. I enjoyed my sun time, people watching time, and too much time at the art auctions. All worthwhile - and will be repeated.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Princess's entertainer of the year Carlos Oscar had the audience laughing sooo much! Some of the bar entertainers were worth listening to. Talent varied from so-so to great, but in my opinion, all showed a great deal of professionalism. The dancers were top shelf! On one port day, I watched them practice topside. After a few minutes, it was obvious the practice was for the musicians. The dancers were spot on!
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The crew is one reason I keep going back to Princess. Many quick hellos and smiles, but many conversations about their shipboard life and homes. My MDR Waiter (Peter) was outstanding the whole week. Cabin Steward was OK, but not my best. He just returned from his extended vacation the day we boarded so he had LOTS of catch-up training plus shipboard drills to complete during the week. Never any problems. Bar staff was terrific - especially Brenda at Crooners. She is 90 pounds of pure happiness and joy!
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Not my favorite Princess class. The Grand class is my favorite. Second time on the Royal class and I must admit, I enjoyed this more than the first experience. Tables for two in the Horizons buffet is my biggest complaint. Second dislike is the tiered aft. I prefer the Grand class vertical design. Cleanliness? Never saw anything out of place for long. The buffet food lines were always clean, tables bussed promptly, and walkways spotless.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Perfection. Always kept clean with twice a day service. Only once did I have to ask for the balcony table to be cleaned. I really like the bigger balconies in the aft cabins. Took advantage of the return home trip to catch some nice sun on the lounge chairs. Bathroom size is more than adequate.
Outstanding. Princess departure groups were running a little ahead of schedule. Going thru customs was a breeze. Tried the Princess departure program were they picked up my bag the evening before departure, then next touched my luggage at my home airport. I liked it! Will definitely do this again.
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