As an introduction, we have been on a number of cruises with multiple cruise lines. Each has its distinct advantages and some disadvantages. Nothing is perfect! However, we have enjoyed every cruise and are addicted to cruising.
Approximately six weeks before the cruise, we booked the Crown Princess back to back...18 days total, 1st to the Eastern Caribbean and then to the Western. We live in Pinehurst, NC and flew to NY for two nights. We stayed at the Regency Hotel in NYC, booked at a special rate and had a wonderful time.
Embarkation on the Princess took us all of fifteen minutes. We arrived early via car service and was on board before noon. Our mini-suite on Dolphin Deck was great. Plenty of room, wonderful bedding, large bathroom with tub, great cabin steward and of course a marvelous balcony. Some complain that the balcony's on Dolphin are uncovered but we seldom saw people from above. Also, our cabin was at the very back of the ship. We have even booked the same cabin number on the Sapphire for Dec. '07, but more about that later.