We drove from Central FL to Ft. Lauderdale and boarded the Crown Princess seamlessly at about 1:30. We had a picture taken and went directly to our stateroom. We chose a balcony room mid-ship. It was lovely but the bathroom was a bit smaller than the Caribbean Princess. What really made the room was Samuel our cabin steward. He was fantastic! He noticed we had wine and brought glasses. We requested ice at 4 each day and because he was not working then, he brought a large container just before lunch. He was really pleasant and it makes a big difference.
Our first day at sea was uneventful. The weather was sort of cool for the whole cruise. An unusual cold front had come in but we were still able to use the balcony. The seas were seldom rough. We chose anytime dining and really enjoyed the flexibility of it. No complaints about the food - - just wonderful. The one complaint was that they have done away with teaspoons in favor of those little sticks. Ick! We complained they did not have premium tea and got some - - seems you have to ask for it as people were taking large amounts home. We chose not to try the upscale dining as the dining room had something we loved each evening.
The entertainment was good. The dancers and singers did a great job. The comedian (1st one) was absolutely hilarious. We could not stop laughing. The second one was so-so. We noticed they did not have as much entertainment as other years but we really did not care. If this is how they keep prices down it's fine with us.