We had spent a week in Peru (Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco) arriving late in Santiago, and took a (non-Princess) tour (with wine tasting) the next day arriving fairly late for check-in. The only issue was that we didn't realize we needed to turn the Argentinian documents in at that time. This was our first cruise on the Star Princess (have previously been on the Island, Crown, Pacific, and Regal). We were very impressed by the Captain (a bit of a rough crossing prior to Cape Horn), and crew. When we had to miss a stop at Punta Arenas he was very thorough in explaining why (and from reading reports from the prior cruise, understand why).
We took Princess excursions in all the ports except Stanley, where we went with Patrick Watts tours to Volunteer Point (thanks to many comments on Cruise Critic Roll Call - this was definitely a highlight of the trip). Puerto Montt tour to the Petrohue River, was basically a waste. 2 hour drive followed by a push and shove to get to the one picture spot on the river (little rain, little waterfall). We did find the shore excursion departures a little less efficient than on prior cruises, and especially enjoyed sea days.
Dinners were in the Capri Dining Room except for 4 nights when we didn't love any of the menu items or didn't feel like changing for dinner. Horizon was fine at dinner time, but at breakfast and lunch (especially on sea days) was difficult to find seating due to folks commandeering tables to read, play cards, etc. Staff in dining room and Horizon court were great. Didn't like that we couldn't wait for our omelet in the morning but had to find a server to get for us, which sometime took a while. Love Princess pizza, but a couple days was not as awesome as usual (soggy). The port lecturer was very good - informative and humorous. Cabin was great (plenty of storage, and a nice large balcony). Steward was also great!
Long drive with little to see
Informative and fun. Only had thought would get to see the train station at the end of the world
Rough ride, but exciting! And the fact that the penguins can walk so close to you is amazing. Was a bit chilly, but just an awesome experience.
Informative and great lunch and folklore show.
Colorful and a great place to walk around and take photos. Combined tour with city and Recoleta Cemetery
Informative and unique. Combined with city and La Boca
Enjoyable, but very limited viewing due to seating (airplane type seats) rather than along the sides so could see both sides of the river