This was our first cruise and we're sold. Princess had the whole process well organized from beginning to end. We booked our own flights and stayed a day or two at each end (Barcelona and Venice). The transfers to/from the ship were easy.

We took a combination of ship's tours and independent tours of ports. The ship's tours were very well organized (especially considering that over 2000 passengers take tours at each port). However, we felt that the time involved in gathering, waiting, following the group, waiting for stragglers, etc. was too great compared to the actual touring time. The independent tours allowed more flexibility without the administrative time.

Our cabin (a mini-suite) was great and the steward was very responsive. We were amazed that the ship never seemed crowded. There was always some place to go that was relaxing. We were on the ship for 12 days and were discovering places up to the last day. Read more