My husband and I have taken 3 cruises each with a different line (RCL, Holland America & Carnival). After reading the reviews and checking prices we decided on the Caribbean Princess and since it was our 25th anniversary we opted for the balcony. We hit unexpected traffic and arrived about 4 pm and were probably one of the last passengers to embark. There were no lines and no waiting.
We wanted to see our stateroom first and were pleased to find balloons outside the door congratulating our anniversary. The steward was right on hand and introduced himself AND the room to us. This was a first! Everything was very clean and pleasantly furnished with more than adequate storage for clothes and suitcases and having a safe was nice also. What drew our attention was the view from the balcony it was spectacular! We decided to watch the departure from there instead of looking out a closed window or leaning over a rail. The checked luggage was delivered in a very timely manner.
The ship is very clean and in good repair. It is tastefully decorated and lighted and flows nicely making it easy to navigate. The dining room was large but the seating arrangement and spot lighting made it seem intimate. There were more men in tuxedo's and ladies in long gowns than on previous cruises and that added elegant atmosphere. The menus could have been clearer as to what each dish consisted of and it's a pain to keep having to ask "What's this?" so we stayed with what we knew and that was very good. The wait staff was friendly and the service excellent.