My husband and I just returned from the Pacific Coastal cruise 9/23 - 9/29 on the Golden Princess. The ship was in very good shape, clean and well-maintained. It was also a much bigger ship than I expected. Certainly was good for the exercise. I am amazed at the low rating that the previous two reviewers gave this ship and cruise. This was our 12th cruise and I guess we are just not that critical. We are in our mid 50's and just plain enjoy cruising. Yes, there were certain things that we didn't find pleasing also but to give the ship and trip a rating of only 3 seemed way too low. I think some people are just way too critical. We take these repositioning cruises up or down the pacific coast between LA and Vancouver as a fun little trip which gives us an additional chance to visit Vancouver which we love also. Who cares if you don't like a particular port that well. It is time away from work and getting to spend more time with your mate away from distractions and getting to do what you want when you want get up when you want. This type of trip is very relaxing mentally. Also, you can usually get some good rates at about 30 - 60 days before the cruise.

We started out by arriving late Wednesday night in Vancouver from LA. We booked the Pacific Palisades Hotel off of Priceline. It was quite nice with large rooms and we would return there. Then the next morning we rented a car at Avis downtown and drove to Whistler. Spent 2 nights there which was very beautiful. Loved hiking Nairn Falls and just enjoying the beauty of the area. Took the gondola to the top of Whistler mountain. Very scenic with outstanding views. Takes about 25 minutes to get up there. Meals are quite expensive in Whistler so try splitting meals and it isn't as bad. Then we drove back to Vancouver on Saturday afternoon. The winter Olympics are in Whistler in 2010 so anyone wanting to go to Whistler before then should note that they are widening the road between Vancouver and Whistler so plan on extra driving time. We drove back to Vancouver on Saturday afternoon which helped cause then the workers weren't out on the road but the speed limits were still very low because of the construction zones.

EMBARKATION - Went very smoothly. We arrived early at about 11:15 and boarded the ship by noon and was able to put our carry on's in our room as it was already available for us. Read more