We sailed on the Coral Princess for the partial Panama transit from January 17 to 27, 2017. This was our twelfth cruise and our ninth with Princess. Having encountered a poor all around experience on the Star Princess in April 2016 for a 10 day coastal cruise we were on guard as to what to expect on this cruise. Previously, we have had enjoyable experiences on Princess except for the Star. The Coral Princess cruise exceeded our expectations and renewed what we have always enjoyed on Princess.
We were located in cabin D629 which was a balcony unit. Even though towards the stern of the ship being a smaller ship we found it very easy to get around. All of the staff that we passed or had dealings with were extremely pleasant. Thank you Boylyn for being such an attentive and friendly cabin attendant. Our waiter Manuel and his assistant Francis provided excellent service. It was a breath of fresh air to have a waiter with a great personality, sometimes he kept us in stitches. Their character and service made us look forward to dining each night (traditional second seating). Their service was so efficient we always had time to catch the evening shows at 9:45.
The Cruise Director (Cory), Assistant (Mikey) and other staff developed a schedule that was full of fun activities for those looking for that. I can't believe their high energy. Our past few cruises have been on large ships, it was a breath of fresh air to be on this smaller ship. I think such enhanced the intimacy. The cruise and ports were great, just a perfect mix of ports vs. sea days. The only negative was the short period of time in Aruba (four hours). This short time either resulted in you taking an excursion or walking around town; there wasn't enough time to do both. Also, somewhat of a waste of time to get off in Colon. The only thing that is worthwhile in doing that is to say you stepped foot on ground in Panama if you stayed on the ship during the transit. It earns the name colon.
Typical balcony cabin
Either book and excursion or wander twon, not enough time for both.
We did not take an excursion stayed on the ship but did disembark in Colon. Lots of hustlers, went to supermarket then back on ship
Such a beautiful city. Tour included Getsemani, old city and newer city.