My wife and I have done many cruises, mostly on Princess. This was our third on the Grand Princess since 2010, one of which being in March 2014 from San Fran to Mexico. This was our second TransPacific to Hawaii, the first being on the Celebrity Century two years ago from San Diego. This is probably our last cruise to Hawaii, not because it wasn't enjoyable, but there are just too many other places to go see in the world. We love the sea days, though, and this was a very relaxing cruise, which was at the top of our list this time around. Weather wasn't that great as Hawaii goes and for first time visitors to Hawaii, there could have been more sunshine, but we've been there many times so it wasn't really a big deal for us.

The Grand is a great ship with FANTASTIC service and food. There are always some people you bump in to that always need to complain about something, but really we have nothing to complain about. We bought the all-inclusive drink package this time around and really got our money's worth between all the bar venues, the coffee bar, and the off-the-ship water/soft drinks that were available. We had a table of 8 in the Botticelli Dining Room which was great. We tried Anytime Dining in 2010 on the Grand, and will never go there again. We like to have the same table service/table mates every night. They get to know you and you don't have to constantly go through the same old questions with people (Where are you from? What do you do?)... it's enough of that at lunch in the dining room if you decide to share a table. Plus the waiters are the same every night and get to know your preferences.

My wife and I would have a drink down in the Piazza every night around 5 or so and laugh at all the people LINING UP for dinner. Really? The last thing I want to do once I'm on board is to LINE UP for something, least of all dinner. Diff'rent strokes, I guess. Read more