This was a nice getaway for us. It was more about the cruise and less about the ports. We were able to connect with a friend in SF and that was the best part of the entire trip.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We flew in to Vancouver and used the Princess transfer. We were met by a Princess rep who took our luggage and directed us to the awaiting bus. The bus driver gave us information about Vancouver and the sites along the way. We were dropped off at the terminal, went through security (like at the airport) and then checked in with a Princess agent. We got our room keys and a map of the ship and we went right on. Don't think it took more than 10-15 minutes.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
We ate primarily in the main dining room and had anytime dining. Because we enjoy sharing a table, there was no waiting. The food was excellent and the desserts were amazing. The only complaints we heard were from long-time cruisers that expect everything to be exactly the same way it was the last time they sailed.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Since this ship started in Vancouver and ended in Los Angeles, the weather wasn't warm enough for us to enjoy the pool. There were a number of games like trivia during the day. Since we weren't interested in the casino, the art auction or jewelry purchasing, that didn't leave much during the days at sea.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
We went to one of the stage shows, Magic To Do and it was very good. We missed the second stage show because to timing. There were two comedians on board, Carlos Oscar and Jerry Goodspeed. They were both very good, but Carlos was not to be missed.
Children's Programs
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Princess knows that service is what is most important. Everyone greeted you no matter where you were on the ship. All you needed to do was ask if there was anything you needed.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The bed is listed as a queen, but it is 2 twins put together, which is larger than a queen. There were two night stands a desk and a refrigerator. The large flat-screen tv was mounted on the wall and the refrigerator has a table and a shelf above it. Plenty of hanging closet space and a shelved closet next to it. The bathroom worked well for one average-sized person; the shower might be an issue for the 250+ person.
Went to Butchart Gardens. Beautiful even in October. Took a Princess excursion and the bus driver told us about Victoria and the sites along the way. Very informative. Victoria is a good port for walking. We walked from town back to the ship; it takes 30-45 minutes.
This is a great port for walking. The ship docked at Pier 35 and we walked down the waterfront to Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ship Museum and Ghirardelli Square. Could see the cable cars coming and going. If you like to walk, this is a great walk.
Disembarked in LA. Took a Princess transfer to LAX. Traffic was horrible. From the time we left the ship, got on the bus, got to the airport, checked in, went through security and got to the gate it was 2 1/2 hours!
Princess does an excellent job. We got up, went to breakfast, picked up our things from our room and went to our assigned location. Our group was called to disembark and we walked off. Picked up our bags and went to our awaiting bus.
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