Coral Princess Feb 21-March 7, 2013

This was my first experience on a 14 day cruise and I wasn't really sure if this would be too much time. The full transit Panama Canal itinerary included 7 sea days plus the canal transit day. There was a full three sea days in a row at the beginning of the cruise. It turned out just right for me and my husband. I really had the chance to unwind and enjoy the ships many activities before the hustle bustle of stopping at a port. My home life is very busy with a full time job, assisting in the care of my elderly parents, and helping my children with the 4 grandchildren as often as possible. A complete break from my everyday life for two solid weeks was wonderful.

My DH and I have been on the Island previously and it was our favorite ship. The size, layout and space per passenger seemed perfect to us. Now our favorite ship is the updated Coral. We loved the additional of the International Cafe and spent many hours there enjoying the pastries, small sandwiches and coffee. We purchased a single coffee card and used it for specialty coffees, brewed coffee and my evening chamomile tea. When we entered the remodeled Horizon Court for the first timed we were wowed. It is so much brighter and less crowded feeling. The food court is now larger, going around the back where a dance floor used to be. There you can discover muffins, waffles and pastries in morning and desserts in the evening. The desserts are now cut and placed on a small plate instead of a large cake sitting out where the passengers cut it themselves. The result is so much more appetizing. Read more