Well after reading all the reviews on this site and others over the past few months, I figure I owe it to everyone to write a review of my own. First a little background on myself -- I am a single 29 y/o guy from Las Vegas. I traveled with a friend of mine from college who lives in New York City now. This was my 5th cruise, but only the 2nd as an adult. I did the Royal Caribbean Vision of the Seas last year w/ another buddy and enjoyed that one almost as much as this one. This was my first cruise on Princess. We cruised from 12/2/06-12/9/06. The weather was great most of the time.
I drove from Las Vegas the night before and stayed with a friend in Newport Beach. We arrived at the port at around 12:30 and I'd say we were onboard before 1:30. Not too shabby since that was probably the peak time that people showed up. I'd suggest showing up a bit before 12 or after 1:30 if waiting is an issue for you.
The ship is absolutely beautiful! At only two and a half years old, it shows very little, if any, wear. You will spend most of your time on the upper few decks where the pool, buffet, Skywalkers Night Club, Princess Links mini-golf and golf simulator, mini paddle tennis court (think regular tennis except about half the size and w/ small wooden paddle type racquets), basketball court (shares space with the tennis court), and table tennis courts are located. You will also spend ample time on Deck 7 where you will find the Theater, a couple bars, the atrium, the Casino, and Club Fusion. Most of the rest of the decks are rooms, except for dining available on Decks 4-6, I believe.