I have been on several cruises with several cruise lines in my lifetime and have Elite status with Princess. However, this was my first cruise on the Regal Princess and only second cruise sailing solo. I consider myself a knowledgeable cruiser but I still read reviews and did a lot of research to see what people considered the strengths and weaknesses of the Regal. I had certain concerns and trepidations but knew I would still have a good time.

I live in Orlando, FL and drove down to Ft. Lauderdale the day prior and stayed at a Hampton Inn. The itinerary was the 7-Day Eastern Caribbean cruise going to Ft. Lauderdale RT, Princess Cays, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. There were over 4000 people onboard including 500 children due to Spring Break. With this the kids seemed well behaved and I did not have any problem encounters. First concern dispelled.

I arrived at the port at 10:30 am and of course it was a zoo with long lines already waiting to board. There were staff advising that the doors would open at 11 am. Of course, I think many of the people wanting to board were not following the staggered boarding procedures, me included. However, once the doors opened there were two staff members directing the Elite/ etc to the priority line and I was checked in under ten minutes time. Read more