A SPECIAL DAY ABOARD EMERALD PRINCESS.

On Saturday 9^th August, I was lucky enough to enjoy the day on one of Princess’s ex-UK ships for 2014, the beautiful Emerald Princess. The weather was good, and my excitement grew as I drove nearer and nearer to Southampton. I see many ships from month to month, but I never fail to get that goose bump feeling when I first lay eyes on a ship, and believe me Emerald Princess was no exception.

Emerald Princess sailing out.

We boarded smoothly via the Mayflower terminal and made our way to International Café. Open 24 hours, this delightful spot located in The Piazza (atrium) serves up sumptuous treats that reflect the time of day on board. Danish pastries and croissants will tantalise your taste buds during morning, whilst throughout the afternoon, International Café will serve grilled to order Panini’s, salads, tarts, and quiches. All of the food served here is made from scratch on board, and is never kept on display for more than four hours – ultimate freshness! You may be thinking of a cover charge to indulge in all of these treats, but you’re wrong, International Café is entirely complimentary – even the desserts!

Enjoying Hazelnut Stollen from International Cafe.

Something from International Cafe sir?

We toured a large selection of cabins, right from inside to the Penthouse suite. Although a little dated, the cabins are well appointed, clean, and homely. The balconies are of a good size, much bigger than Royal Princess, still with similar furnishings which were in good shape. We also seen a selection of disabled cabins and I have to say that they really do cater well, giving such persons an enjoyable holiday, larger doors, walk in showers, large wardrobes where you can actually pull the hanging rail down to wheelchair height, and large open space enable the passenger to move around and access everything in the cabin. There is also a ramp that enables wheelchair users to access the balcony, although every one seemed to be damaged, what do you expect with all these extravagant do it all, practically 4×4 wheelchairs that are about now?

Outside cabin with two upper berths.

The ship has some traditional cruising facilities as well as some of Princess’s own signature features. Four swimming pools, one that was so inviting I actually removed my shoes and socks to try it, another with many sunbeds positioned on tiered levels, this is where you will enjoy ‘Movies Under the Stars’, the sunbeds are padded with plush pillows and you’ll find yourself enjoying the latest blockbuster, wrapped in a cosy blanket being served fresh popcorn, warm cookies, and chilled milk, what an amazing way to end the perfect day at sea or ashore.

Movies under the stars.

I’m not a poser, promise!

We then enjoyed a delicious four course meal in one of the main restaurants, a special mention a real Princess favourite – Fettuccine, a delicious pasta dish served in an amazing parmesan basket. Trout was my main course, beautiful at that. Finished with another of my favourites, the chocolate hazelnut soufflé, simple pleasure.

Fettuccine – so warm and totally satisfying

Trout Amandine.

Souffle.

After dinner treats!

I had an extremely special day on board Emerald Princess, and I could not put my finger on what really made it, until I got home and slept. I woke the next morning with severe post-cruise blues and realised, it was everything. Everything that we seen, and experienced throughout the day made the experience. The people, the food, the crew, the sights, the sounds, the smells, it really does make you feel at home whilst in a truly 5* environment. I think it’s very safe to say that I fell in love with this ship, or Princess itself? I think both. I’m their biggest fan, are you a fan too?

Cheers! (non-alcoholic!)