Started with a 5 day pre cruise tour. Started in Beijing and stayed at the wonderful Beijing Hotel, stayed 1 night and then flight to Xian and visited the amazing Terracotta warriors. What an experience that was, a very interesting guide gave a very comprehensive insight into the history of the place. Then off a very nice hotel, we thought Beijing was good but this one was even better, pity we only had one night. After a clean up we were off to a Chinese meal and theatre show, good meal and first class entertainment. After a good breakfast we were off to the Giant Goose Pagola another exciting place with loads of history and still a very spiritual place for the Chinese.A visit to a jade factory followed techniques and history fascinating but the long stay and sales pitch were a little off putting. After another excellent Chinese meal, it was on a flight back to Beijing and the Beijing Hotel. Next day we were off to the Great Wall an awe inspiring experience. The final day saw us visiting Tianaman Square and the Forbidden City before a 3 hour journey to embark Sapphire Princess. The embarkation procedure was carried out in a hotel some way from the ship. The queuing was a little tedious, but once into the large hall things went smoothly. Once on board ship, our cases were waiting in our cabin, and before we knew it we were going to safety briefing, once that was out of the way we were off to explore the ship and meet friends who had joined the ship and not been on the tour. Opting for any time dining , we ate at the Sante Fe on the first night and found the table we were given in a very cold spot , so asked to moved this was received with enthusiasm and caused some friction with the head waiter so didn't eat in there again.  Our favorite restaurant was Pacific Moon, so we soon booked the same table for the rest of the cruise and this worked very well. The waiters were very efficient and always had a smile, and the head waiter couldn't have been more helpful. We found the ship very comfortable and the public rooms were very comfortable. In spite of there being 2600 or so passengers it was always easy to find a quiet spot if you needed to or join the many entertainment venues. The shows in the theatre by the ships dancers were excellent, but some of the other entertainment left a bit to be desired. The ports visited were an excellent choice giving a great insight into the Asian culture. We took 3 organized excursions from the ship, although we thought these a little expensive they were well organized. Disembarkation was very organized and the hospitality hotel in Bangkok was 1st class, so was the transfer to the airport and the luggage collection. What a relief to have the luggage meet you at the airport and just check it in and pick it up again at the home airport. Well Done Princess for super cruse and pre cruise tour, we will be back.