: Date of cruise was 1/3/08. Compare previous review of Emerald Princess on princess reviews. Two 60 y/o with 30y/o son for a quick getaway. Embarkation: We live 80 miles north of Tampa. Drive down was a snap, directions off Route 4 were excellent. Arrive at channelside garage and parked. Charge is 12 dollars per day. As we only had carry-on luggage just walked in for security 2minute wait got right through. As a Diamond Crown and Anchor member had separate line, waited 2 minutes, then separate line to get picture and get on ship. Total time 15 minutes, which was excellent.
Ship: grandeur is 12 years old with a recent re-furbish. Centrum is really beautiful with white marble tile and is several stories tall. There was live music during the day and it was very pleasant to sit and listen to it. The dining room was 2 stories and very elegant. The rest of the ship was in very good shape for 12 years old. Lots of light wood paneling gave a very rich feel.
Dining: My only complaint is that because we travel with RCCL so much the menu is getting tiring. When we see the color of the menu we know already what is on it. It would be nice if there would be some new entrees. That said the food was very good with a very nice presentation. Our waiter, Gilbert, was excellent. We booked a 10 day for Dec 2008 on the Grandeur and after talking to Gilbert, he expected to be working at that time so we requested to be at one of his tables. Megan our assistant waiter was also one of the best we have had, this made for a most enjoyable cruise.