Due to a mechanical issue with losing half of our propulsion as we approached 20 miles from Hilo, Big Island, we could not enter port there. We went on to Honolulu and spent 2 days instead of 1 there and ship could not be repaired enough to reach full cruising speed. This necessitated cancelling the last two islands on our itinerary and heading back directly to Mexico since maritime law requires cruise ships visit one foreign port. Due to not getting the Hawaiian experience we had been promised, Princess gave us a VERY GENEROUS consolation package - a FULL refund of our cruise price to the passengers who elected to stay on the ship, PLUS $200 credit per passenger to spend on the way back PLUS a 50% discount for any (1) future cruise. The approximately 400 people who elected to get off the ship in Honolulu were flown back to the mainland at Princess's expense plus 25% credit on any (1) future cruise.

The professionalism of the crew from the Captain on down was top notch. We were all treated like royalty with fantastic food and great entertainment - cruise director Dave and his staff rallied to the cause and created many fun activities for us for the extra days we spent at sea. We especially loved Alfredo's Pizza and the International Cafe. The naturalist on board as well as Dave gave very informative and interesting talks in the Princess Theater every day about the history and culture of the islands. I use a walking cane and noticed everyone on the ship goes out of their way to be respectful and helpful to passengers with physical disabilities. We arrived back in San Francisco on time. Getting off the ship went very orderly and got to the airport on Super Shuttle van in plenty of time to catch our flight.

We have only taken one other cruise about 23 years ago on Carnival to the western Caribbean and this 2 week Princess cruise was much more enjoyable. We splurged for a balcony this time over a window view and spent many hours soaking up sun and sea breezes. Read more