We sailed 15 Jan 2005 out of San Juan. It was only our second cruise and we were psyched.

On this cruise, we arrived at the port with more time to spare than on our previous on Princess, and it helped. It also made for cheaper airfare out of IAD. Getting aboard a little ahead of the masses was a help, too -- less like a cattle drive. Down side? Our bags didn't arrive at our stateroom until after 8:30 p.m., sometime during the emergency drill. (I suspect having all passengers at the assembly stations helps clear the decks for the baggage delivery operation.) Note to self: Next time, keep more of the essentials in carry on bags so this isn't an inconvenience.

The ship is pretty new, and it shows. I noticed that the elevators (and a lot of glass and pretty views) are on the starboard (right) side of the ship. In all but one port of call, the ship was always positioned to take advantage of the wonderful views out the starboard side, so this is the better side for a balcony stateroom. Based on our experience on Princess, however, the port was the desirable side for views and seeing the goings-on, and we booked a port-side suite this time. Oh well. So it's good to know a *little* about the ship's layout beforehand. Read more