As first time cruisers and flyers, I did a lot of pre-cruise research,after reading many reviews, I was nervous about a few things, flying,embarkation and disembarkation etc...but I have to tell you my fears were unfounded as the staff and crew of Alaska air and Star Princess were friendly,kind and helpful. From the porter at the airport to the last crew member of the princess.

With that being said, allow me to share our Alaska experience. First: The ship, our mini-suite was a pleasant surprise, after reading many mixed reviews, I was not sure what to expect, but the room was spacious, clean,and comfortable, as was the bathroom. Our room steward Lowell DeLeon was great always nearby if needed but never under foot. We are in our "young fifties" and traveled with another couple, who were being funny when the used the supplies from Lowells cart to "decorate" our cabin door in honor of my Birthday, I was afraid Lowell would get in trouble or get mad, but he laughed and kept the decorations intact the entire cruise.

The food was hit or miss in the buffet, mostly good, plenty of choices, the two dinning rooms capri and portofino were always very good, we used anytime dinning and made reservations we never waited and the dining room staff were so attentive we were compelled to tip well every meal, watching them serve with the expertise they display was impressive. These folks work very hard. On the Lido deck is the famous pizza and it too lived up to it's reputation (yummy)! Read more