This was our 6th cruise, the last 4 being aboard Royal Caribbean ships. We opted for the Caribbean Princess because of a great price on the balcony staterooms that were offered (balcony for outside cabin price) and the Southern Caribbean itinerary. We were also interested in a comparison to the Royal Caribbean cruises that we have enjoyed (Mariner, Legend, Freedom and Oasis). So, let me first say, the Caribbean Princess and Princess Cruise Lines measured up to our expectations for the most part.

Embarkation is an area that was a little bit of an issue. I don't know if this is a usual occurrence or if there was a ship issue. We arrived at the Park & Ride shuttle at 11am and were promptly transported to the ship terminal. Unfortunately, boarding didn't begin until about noon so we waited in line at the terminal. Once boarding began, we were processed onto the ship within 15 minutes. Other passengers related that they arrived around 1pm and had a 2 hour wait to check in and board the ship.

Now about the ship...we were in a balcony cabin, #A314. Aloha deck 12 about a third of the way aft in the ship near the forward elevators. Port side. For this cruise, the port side was dock side at both Curasao and Aruba (island view) and harbor view at Port Everglades. It was a very nice room layout. We particularly liked the dressing area outside the bath. The bath accommodations are typical cruise ship, functional and compact. The balcony had two chairs and a small side table. The beds were firm but comfortable. A flat screen TV and a mini fridge with ample room for the wine and water we brought on board. Read more