I have just got back from my first cruise and I am hooked! Firstly the destination, the Caribbean was a brilliant choice for those that enjoy the sun. Sailing for a couple of days and then a different island to visit each day is a lovely way to see some of the Caribbean, each island offering something different to see. I did tours to most of them and did various things from site seeing to beaches, swimming with dolphins, catamaran trips with snorkelling.

Secondly, the ship, Emerald Princess was built in 2007 and is immaculately kept. The atrium which is mid ships and is 3 storeys high offers a resplendent focal point with shops, entertainment, restaurant, passenger services area. Our internal cabin was spacious and well-presented with ample storage, a safe, dressing table/desk, en-suite shower room with toiletries, towels, pool towels. Our cabin steward, Allan could not do enough for us and seemed to work 24 hours a day! There were several pools, one with an outdoor cinema and up to date films. There are self service restaurants, which are open most of the day, I couldn't fault the food at all, it was excellent, lots of polite, helpful staff throughout the boat from all corners of the world. There is plenty to do each day or just sun yourself round the pool. There are also some sit down restaurants, which served excellent food with attentive service. Also, some restaurants you have to pay additional amounts for $25 each and have to book. I understand they were good but did not see the need to pay the extra.

Thirdly, the entertainment. There are several bars each with something taking place from karaoke, bingo, ballroom dancing lessons to groups playing, quizzes etc. there are 3 shows each evening from a comedian, impersonator, singing and dançing. The shows were good but a little disappointing, possibly there should be two a night which are longer than the half hour three times a night. I expected something akin to West End shows, but they were more performances rather than shows. Read more