Our 21st cruise, 3rd Princess, was all we expected and more. No rain, one overcast day, the rest were picture perfect--50's at night...high 60's days!
Embarkation was a breeze once we got to the terminal. We were in Venice one night before the cruise and took a water taxi to e maritime stazione. Princess had a bag check on the pier which was great---the downside was it was still a 10 minute walk to the cruise terminal. A five minute wait for our turn with the check-in crew, got our room cards and walked on the ship.
Our room was ready (R702-a port side balcony 10 steps away from the aft elevator on the 14th floor). The only complaint I have on the whole cruise was the size of the cabin in general and the bathroom in particular. Smallest balcony cabin we have ever stayed in. Great location for our traditional dining though--straight down to floor six and the Bottecelli dining room. Table for eight with great table mates from Canada. Our servers, Edgar and Leah, were excellent--very attentive and great sense of humor. We thought the food was great. It was served hot and was very tasty with a great selection if you were not into fancy fare. This was a port intensive cruise so breakfast was a quick bite in the buffet or room service. Buffet was very diverse and met our expectations. Serving areas are not as large as some other ships but no delay in getting groceries. We didn't eat lunch on the ship but a few times but thought food and selection was fine. We went to the Crown Grill steakhouse one night. The service was great but we have had better food and ambiance but ok for $25 pp cover charge.
Small room with smaller bathroom and stationary shower head :(