Following an arduous embarkation sail-away did not take place allegedly due to inspection issues. We found out later that a bilge pump was not operating. We spent a "sea day" in Southampton port. Information was not forthcoming from the ship officers. I think they had to bring in some special personnel for the repairs and really did not know when the ship would leave. Even with redundant systems I don't think anyone would want to go out in the ocean with a broken bilge pump. The $75 cruise credit pp did not seem adequate for the loss of some very expensive and important vacation time. When repairs were made the next afternoon we sailed on to Guernsey. It was a charming little island, but with no tours and little to do but walk around. I don't know why the captain went there instead of Cobh. According to announcements all such decisions came from the "head office" in San Diego. This was a handy way to sidestep responsibility, considering they had to deal with 3600 passengers having various agendas and levels of tolerance. Later we were informed that we were skipping Liverpool. This was a big disappointment for many. Again Guernsey would not have been missed by the majority. Food on Princes is not as good as it used to be. Don't order a steak in the MDR unless you like your meat tough and chewy. The special dining night Lobster was a little strange looking but the prawns were delicious. Wine tastings and special coffees were pushed VERY aggressively by the waiters. We could not discourage them with a simple "NO". We often had to refuse 3 or 4 times with the urgency for the sale turned up.

We ate in Sabatini's one night. I did not care for the lobster we had in there either. I am a picky eater. I thought the pasta was a little undercooked.

The International Cafe was open 24/7. Although small with not too many choices they were always there with a free treat or a bite when hunger struck. Next door you will pay for coffee or tea to go with your snack. Read more