Overall Score

BERLITZ'S RATING
	Possible	Achieved
Ship	500	326
Accommodation	200	140
Food	400	257
Service	400	290
Entertainment	100	74
Cruise	400	292

How this score is created

Regal Princess was the second ship in the 70,000-ton range for Princess Cruises, and as such foreshadowed the even larger ships this successful company went on to build. The ship has rather a jumbo-airplane look to it when viewed from the front, with a dolphin-like upper structure (made of lightweight aluminum alloy), and a large upright “dustbin-like” funnel (also made from aluminum alloy) placed aft.

Inside, the contemporary styling of the period is mixed with traditional features and a spacious interior layout. The interior spaces are well designed, although the layout itself is quite disjointed. The understated decor of soft pastel shades is highlighted by some colorful artwork.

An observation dome, set high atop the ship like the head of a dolphin, houses a large casino, numerous rubber trees, a dance floor and live music. The ship has decent health and fitness facilities. A striking, elegant three-deck-high atrium has a grand staircase with fountain sculpture (real, stand-up cocktail parties are held here). Characters Bar, located adjacent to the pizzeria on the open deck forward, has wonderful drink concoctions and some unusual glasses.

This ship provides a very pleasant cruise in elegant and comfortable surroundings, and an attentive staff will make you feel welcome. Princess Cruises provides white-gloved stewards to take you to your cabin when you embark, another nice touch. Regal Princess has undergone an extensive refit (remodeled atrium and dining room, new 24-hour Lido restaurant and evening bistro, and children’s center).

The open deck space is very limited for the size of the ship and the number of passengers carried, and, sadly, there is no forward observation viewpoint outdoors. There is no wrap-around promenade deck outdoors (the only walking space being along the sides of the ship). In fact, there is little contact with the outdoors at all. The sunbathing space is really limited when the ship is full, although as many passengers are often over 50 years old, perhaps this is not quite so crucial. The interior layout is reasonable, but a little disjointed. Galley fumes seem to waft constantly over the aft open decks.

The automated telephone system is frustrating for many passengers, and luggage delivery needs to be more efficient. Lines form for many things, but particularly for the purser’s office, and for open-seating breakfast and lunch in the dining room. Note that in October 2007, Regal Princess will be withdrawn from the Princess Cruises fleet and transferred to P&O Cruises (Australia) for cruises down under, as Pacific Dawn

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008