Star Princess Review
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Additional details
Michele Tuvo is the captain of the Star Princess, the star, the de facto cruise director, gregarious raconteur, charming host and tour guide. He never saw a whale he didn’t talk about, even if his passengers were having an afternoon nap or showering before dinner. Occasionally he would broadcast his commentary in public areas only, but, typically, he’d blast away anytime during daylight hours. Most of the passengers thought he was cute. He ended each of his scores of broadcasts with the same words: “Nevertheless, bye-bye.”
Interruptions notwithstanding, the good captain showed his real mettle during the two emergency medical evacuations, keeping all of us fully informed and imparting an attitude of calm professionalism.
His passengers, 1,500 of whom had taken six or more Princess cruises, were attracted by bargain prices. A majority came from the southwestern US, quite a few within driving distance of San Pedro. Too bad so many of them had apparently never used an elevator; even late in the cruise, there were clusters of confused people trying to get from one deck to another. We also learned early on that any mention of American politics was very unwise.
Cabin Review
Balcony
The standard Princess veranda cabin has excellent storage but it's a bit cramped when moving around. Twin beds were quite comfortable, but one passenger must use one as a sofa if the other passenger is occupying the only chair.
Our balcony door wouldn't lock and we had a light burn out; both fixed after we complained, but Housekeeping staff are paid to keep an eye on such things. Otherwise, the cabin was clean and we were well looked-after.
Port Reviews
Cabo San Lucas
If you've gone swimming, seen the whales and the rock formation on previous visits, Cabo is pretty boring despite its growth. We walked around, but places to sit (absent buying something) are exceedingly rare so we retreated back to the ship
La Paz
The ship's excursion to the Serpentario cost $140 for two, a ridiculous price. We saved $104 by doing it on our own, taking the "free" shuttle 35 minutes into the city, hiring a cab with English-speaking driver who waited for us while we gazed at the snakes, lizards and turtles. Enrique the cabbie had spent 11 years working (illegally) in the USA. "Trump," said he, "don't like Mexicans."
The Serpentario (admission $8 per person) is a small exhibit space, quite charming, run mostly by volunteers and worth a donation. We oohed and aahed over the cute little chicks and baby rabbits until we realized their purpose in life: to provide food for the reptiles.
Well worth a visit, but not at $140 or anything close to it.
Los Angeles
Adequate as a boarding port; Princess, as usual, overcharges for the transfers from\to LAX.
Note to Cruise Critic: Loreto is a port of call on this and other cruises; you should include it on your drop-down list so contributors can review it.