Mixed Bag……….

Our recent Alaska Cruise on the Emerald Princess was a mixed bag, Mostly good but some sad surprises. On the good side we had almost to the person the very best, most courteous and friendly staff ever. Never saw a long faced grumpy, sullen and morose Eastern European crew member this trip. And this was not our first rodeo. Ports were good, better than our last visit. Ship was in tip top shape, some of the entertainment was fist rate. The magician and the ventriloquist were excellent. The Voice of the Ocean competition was also great. The production shows were awful. Loud screaming singer with modest talent in a poorly choreographed production that seemed forced. We came away feeling that the whole thing had been thrust upon us like an incident of molestation. Loved the violinists at tea, a nice touch.

The food was a disappointment. We never had a single meal we enjoyed. Good selection of poor quality and bland fare. However, we were very pleased at the assortment of fruit, cheese and salad and nuts we found. We were not expecting that and it was a nice surprise. Otherwise…worst food ever! Poorly organized with the entrance to the buffet where the exit should be. We now avoid the formal dining like the plague. Over many cruises we have learned that it is a painfully long dinner experience, for average food, often punctuated with forced conversation and contrived niceties. If we want a sit down supper we choose one of the special, overprice venues onboard. Read more