This is our fourth Princess cruise. This is the smallest ship we have ever cruised on. We chose this cruise because of the 10 day Panama Canal itinerary.
We stayed overnight in Ft. Lauderdale and took shuttle to the cruise terminal. We met people from our town in the airport shuttle on the way home who missed the first two days of the cruise because of airport delays. When flying in winter, we now always fly down a day early. We arrived at about 11:00 and went through the check-in process, got a number and sat and waited until about 1:30 before we were boarded. The check-in was smooth and orderly, we weren't sure what the delay was in beginning to board passengers.
We went straight to our room to drop off our stuff and began to explore the ship. The buffet was crowded, but not any more so than embarkation day on any other ship we've sailed on. Our luggage was delivered to the room by about 6:00.
Our cabin had the usual Princess balcony set up. The bed, bathroom and closet were on the right side of the room as you enter. Plenty of closet space. Room safe. Nice covered, private balcony with four deck chairs and a table. The room is very close to the open back deck of the ship. This was a great place to watch as we went through the locks.
The only problem is that the room (and the four behind it) are right above the Universe Lounge. This wasn't generally a problem, but several nights, the music (especially the bass) carried easily to our room until about 11:00p.m. Zumba also started in the Universe Lounge at 9:00 a.m. most mornings, so if you aren't an early riser, this might be a consideration.
The laundry room is around the corner on the starboard side so was very convenient.
If you are used to the buffet being on the back of the ship, a reminder that it is in the front of this ship, so you do get some exercise.