We arrived at the ship around noon and we were expedited through embarkation and were in our stateroom within 15 minutes. Lunch was ready in the Horizons lounge. The ship dEcor was modern and luxurious but not overstated (it was clean and well maintained). The Sapphire is one of the few cruise ships that was constructed in Japan (Mitsubishi). The layout was easy to understand but a bit of a rabbit warren with lots of jogs and obstacles. Both the bridge and rear upper lounge had flying bridges (they stick out) that were interesting. Most ventures from one end of the ship to the other required going up or down at least one deck. There were lots of pools (one covered), hot tubs and deck chairs. There are many wind barriers, so lots of nice places to lounge. One pool area near the spa is adults only. Much of the decking around the pools and sports deck were carpeted rather than the traditional wood or vinyl. There is a golf mini-put area a golf simulator ($) as well as many bars, lounges a tennis court, workout area, a spa and specialty areas (library, games room, cigars, sports bar, etc). Some smoking was allowed but it wasn't too bad (even in the casino). Beach towels were found in the stateroom not at the pool. Our room was an inside cabin and reasonably quiet, however, there was a service corridor extending behind the room where we could here staff pushing carts. The room was fairly small but there was ample storage space and a large closet (there was only one chair and no couch). There were laundry facilities located on every second deck (right above our stateroom).

With 2800 passengers it was a little crowded for the first few days. The average age of the passengers was a little younger than other cruises, so the programmed events (shows, demonstrations, etc.) were well attended. More than half the passengers had sailed on Princess before and about 80% were US (60% Democrats) with 10% being from Canada and the balance from the rest of the world. Quite a few passengers appeared to be first generation US citizens (Asia, Mexico, British, India, etc.). There were a few children on-board that quickly disappeared into the various kids programs/areas. The food and service was excellent with lots of variety. The Horizons lounge was pleasant but suffers from poor layout (especially the serving lines). In addition to the formal dinning rooms and the buffets, there were two 'free-style' dining rooms and around the pool area a pizza stop, a BBQ area and sometimes a sushi bar. The ice cream station near the pool charged a modest fee however it was free at the buffet during snack time. At the bars, the '5 beers in a pail' (for the price of 4) was popular. All the shows (2 per day) and entertainers were first class. There were lots of other activities including bingo, arts & crafts, line dancing, sports, golf lessons, ceramics, internet cafe, cooking, art, towel folding, and of course, the casino. As the Horizon buffet was open 7/24 they no longer have a midnight buffet (however, there was a champagne gala as well as a two past-passenger parties).

The crew was very much international with each employee proudly displayed their home country on their badge (USA, Portugal, Chile, Romania, Australia, Mexico, etc.). The Captain, Maitre-de and head Chef were hilarious (Britain, France, Italy). The cruise director was always around, very professional and effective. Most social staff were Australian or Canadian. TV channels were good especially ship and shore information channels. There were current movies showing in the lounges (which were also popular). Read more