This was an incredible cruise which I highly recommend to anyone who wants to sample the British Isles without being fleeced by the Euro and Pound as the American dollar does not go far in Europe. This is why we spent our vacation on a cruise ship this time. We have made 10-15 trips to Europe before when the dollar went further, but the exchange rate was too bad this time. This was our 4th European cruise and 8th cruise total.
I always rate the ship by value. Therefore, I have to give Princess very high marks. For what I paid, Princess and the staff of the Grand absolutely exceeded my expectations. I paid $40/day to be on this ship and Princess allowed me to see the British Isles and to have plenty of money left over for other vacations this year. (Pride of Aloha next month)I sometimes overhear people that are never happy when I'm cruising. (You know the ones that never leave the dining room with the whinny nasal voices that never seem to leave the ship.) They get the worst cabin on a ship with 2000 people and expect perfection. When I want that I shoot the would and go on Seaborne, Raddison or Windstar (my favorite).
The Grand Princess was like every other ship I have been on in it's class. I couldn't tell it from a Norwegian or new Carnival ship. The crew was fine except for the person that is at sea now 7 months, completely homesick making next to nothing. (A good tip and some kind words will usually help this and get you better service).