This was our first cruise and first time in Europe. We traveled with another couple, celebrating our 25th anniversary and his 50th birthday. We were very impressed by the Emerald Princess. It was so clean and new. The ship was huge. Lots of activities. There were more children on the ship at this time of the year than we had expected. Would consider another time of year to avoid so many. Not really a problem except for a couple of tours. The food was good to excellent. Our steward was good, very nice but not excellent. Our cabins were very nice. Good size with lots of room to unpack and put the luggage away. We did not try any of the alternative dining. The balcony was a real luxury. Made lots of use of this. Opened the door between the two balconies.

Our itinerary was wonderful. Missed Mykonos due to weather - could not dock safely, was very disappointed. The Tours through Princess were expensive however we found the tour guides knowledgeable and interesting. Spoke English very well. There were lots of little extras such as the sparkling wine with the gondola ride. Cooled face wipes to relieve us of the heat. Enjoyable lunches. Walking by long lines to get into an attraction. Our only complaint regarding the tours is the young children being dragged along on these too long tours for their ages. Some were crying and made it hard to hear the tour guides. A bit ridiculous when you have paid so much and they will never remember the experience! The tours allowed us to see much more than we would have ever been able to see on our own. The sail a way from Venice was extra special - we used the tip from a earlier cruise critic about the unmarked door to get on the front of the ship. Wonderful view and not very crowded. Note that the E tours mean that the group is smaller and you go to more exclusive restaurant for lunch. Used this one in Rome and it was excellent due to the crowds. Much easier to manage a smaller group.

We watched 4 shows, all very good. Earlier show always the more popular and therefore you need to be there early to get a good seat. Did not enjoy the comedians at all. The entertainment in the centre of the ship was very enjoyable. Read more