This "girl cruise" was a gift from my husband to our three daughters (my one, his two), my husband's ex-wife and mother to his girls, and me, fondly referred to as the "wicked stepmother." My husband and I married in our 50s and by that time our girls had grown up, married, and scattered across the U.S. Since the ex-wife and I met twenty years after their divorce, there has never been any animosity between us. This cruise was our occasion to get together and get to know each other as a blended family; not just as "steps."

None of the other ladies had ever been on a cruise, much less seen a cruise ship up close and personal. I have several cruises under my belt so I was the "leader" and pre-trained them on what to expect.

I'll say right at the outset: This was a fabulous cruise and a beautiful experience. My first Princess cruise was the Tahitian Princess and I was wondering how the Star Princess would measure up; she didn't disappoint. The Star is not only beautiful to look at, but she carries a happy crew. You've got to hand it to Princess; I don't know what their policy is towards their employees, but whatever it is, it works. Read more