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We have previously been on ncl(Jewel & jade),Royal Carribean and Holland America.We normally travel may/june before the med/greek islands get too hot.Having been caught up in the ash cloud scenario last year;and the consequent situation of being stuck in a foreign land and having to make our own hotel/re-booking arrangements to get us home to the uk, made us decide to book a package so that in the event of any flight/homeward travel problems we would be looked after.As we had heard good reports from some friends regarding Princess ruises, we thought we would give them a try by booking a grand european tour(12 nights).Starting from barcelona,via italy and greece, then turkey and flying back from venice.The ship was very big(previous ships we had been on were all 70 to 90 thousand tons and are perhaps a more intimate size.For the first few days we kept getting lost.Perhaps some improved signage would improve matters as you didn't always know whether to turn right or left when exiting lifts.The inside cabin was very comfortable and spacious with lots of wardrobe/hanging space and we couldn't really fault the cabin cleanliness or the staff who looked after our cabin.The choice of food onboard was generally very good, but not quite up to Holland america standard.We generally found the self service food better than the sit down restaurant for some reason.But on the whole no real complaints there.The evening shows/entertainment were exceptionally good(west end style shows mainly), but also the movies under the stars shows were good.You had to be early to make sure you reserved your bed/recliner plus blankets.Hard to believe you are watching a movie while simultaneously looking up and seeing the star lit skies.All the embarkation procedures and trips ashore were very well organized, top marks to princess for this aspect.They really have their act together.Unfortunately for us we had to avail ourselves of the medical centre just as were boarding the ship.My wife cut her thumb just prior to boarding on some scissors, and had to have 3 stitches to stop the blood spurting!..Sorry for the gruesome image.But the medical staff were fine, and continued to change the dressings throughout the cruise.The whole medical bill came to around $300, but our insurance covered most of it.
Good to know that you can be looked after.
Overall; a great modern,luxurious ship.Lots to do onboard.Maybe we'll go a little smaller next-time.So far, HAL has the most suitable ships for us.Nevertheless; Princess have a good offering for young people,children and families of all ages.
Quality of Food
Choices available very good.Some great fish dishes available including lobster in the main restaurant.we generally found the choice and quality better in the self service dining room than the formal dining room for some reason.
Entertainment
Excellent shows(west end standard).Great singers in the shows.
Shore Excursions
Unfortunately some trips ashore were on very hot days.We have been on most of the organized with previous cruises but we love the mediterranean resorts.The last day prior to disembarkation in venice was surely the highlight for the slow trip past st marks square is the highlight and probably the best part of the entire trip.
Staff
All the staff were very welcoming and couldn't do enough for you.
Children's Facilities
n/a
Onboard Activities
Yes, excellent.I get a chance to watch the most recently released movies while my wife relaxes/reads on board or around the pool.We invariably met up several times a day at the international cafe.They serve specialist coffees, plus pastries,delicacies are available.The coffees you pay for(about £1.75/£2.00 approx), but the snacks are free.With mealtimes,etc.,there lots of activities planned throughout the day if you want to be busy.Or you can relax and do your own thing.
Cabins
Yes, excellent.Good hanging space(open style wardrobes),Facilities as expected; en suite shower adequate.Sound deadening didn't seem as good as on other shipping lines; but by 11:00/11:30 all quietened down for a good night's leep.
.jpg_thumb.jpg "Santorini sunset")
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