Caribbean Princess Review

4.0 / 5.0
2,769 reviews

Barely On Board

Review for the Southern Caribbean Cruise on Caribbean Princess
User Avatar
Council Man
10+ Cruises • Age 20s

Rating by category

Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service
Cabin

Additional details

Sail Date: Jan 2013

This was our 18th cruise(4 previously on Princess) and somewhat unscheduled. Our Chicago brother-in-law asked us to join him and his wife celebrating her significant birthday the week after Christmas. Upon contacting Princess we were told the ship was full but we could be put on a wait list for $200 (fully refundable). Two weeks before setting sail we were notified of an inside cabin availability on the Baja Deck. We are strictly balcony cruisers but decided to go for it. Must admit, for the price, it was just fine.

EMBARKATION: This was probably the biggest negative. The lines to register and board were incredible. Took us two hours to finally get on the ship. Reason was the compressed time to board (12:30 to 4pm) and the limited number of agents issuing ship cards compared to other cruise lines. Express boarding, forget it!

SHIP: The first thing I attempt to do is learn the layout of a ship. This is a challenge on the CB. The design and flow is very confusing. Room numbers do not conform to deck numbers. Going from the front to the rear of the ship generally requires the use of two decks. Many dead ends, Deck 7 is the main avenue while Deck 15 is very chopped up with pools, buffet area, etc. Elevators are poorly marked. The Excursion Desk and the Cafe Caribe are hidden while the library/computer area is adjacent to the main floor Piazza generally offering considerable noise and distraction. The ship felt crowded, unlike most ships we have been on. Special numbering procedures were necessary just to disembark in Curacao As for appearance, I wouldn't describe it as beautiful but well maintained. We did note many of the railings were in dire need of varnishing.

Cabin Review

Cabin J

Not accustomed to inside cabins, we had an inside, mid-ship on Baja Deck. Very satisfied, exceptionally quiet, clean, great attendants and great value for your money. After all, how much time do you really spend in your room?

previous reviewnext review

Find a Caribbean Princess Cruise from $278

Any Month

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.