We are sophisticated, educated world travelers, accustomed to 5 star accommodations, yet keep coming back to Princess because of its overall excellence, traditions and summer camp spirit, comfort, excursion choices, good food and wine. What a VALUE ! Truly a bargain. This was our 7 th Princess cruise. Sailed once on Celebrity and were disappointed. And are put off by upscale, pretentious, absurdly expensive lines like Regent, Seabourne, Silver Sea etc.
There were many dire, negative reviews about this cruise, which generated much pre-cruise anxiety, but none of them materialized for us.
Embarkation was slow for regular passengers, but speedy for Elite ones ( Platinum ( us), Suites etc). But overall highly organized. Princess consistently excels at moving large groups of people efficiently.
Didn't have time to do anything in Houston. Generally unattractive place. Ugly port but Princess utilized it well.
Fun catamaran sail & lunch. Snorkeling was average but overall a lovely outing.
Long bus ride to boat launch. Jungle "cruise" was actually thrilling high speed boat ride 25 miles into jungle. Saw no wildlife on cool, cloudy day. Not for the faint of heart. Nice ruins. Delicious lunch after scary return boat ride. Great guides.
Our catamaran snorkel was cancelled due to bad weather. ;(
Explored the town.