We chose this cruise because the dates worked and we loved the idea of celebrating New Years on a cruise. To top it off we loved the 8 day itinerary to Curacao, Aruba and Bonaire. We knew the Crown Princess would soon dry dock and having sailed her twice before, did think we would enjoy the ship and could overlook any areas that will soon be refurbished. The overall condition of the ship was very good. Some areas showed some wear but the Piazza (atrium) was in great condition as were the pool decks and most dining areas. The decor is a touch dated in some areas, which is understandable since this ship will be refurbished in a few months. We were lucky to have some friends and family on the ship with us and we all had a pretty good time.

Embarkation went well and was easy with arrival at about 10:45 am. We were 3 in an inside cabin, which is small but we know what to expect and like the layout of this inside (with separation for large open closet facing the bathroom). We traveled with our teen son and he had a great time in the kids club and hanging out at the pool deck or with friends. We had anytime dining and found the food and service to be very good to excellent most nights. I will say that the menu choices seemed to be superior or more appealing the first few nights of the cruise and less enticing the last 2-3 nights. For lunch we ate either in the buffet, which was good, or at the outdoor grill which was fine but not as good as we recalled. A star though is the International cafe!!!! Paninis of all sorts and upscale salads are served (plus desserts). This was our favorite and we ate here many times. The breakfast items were excellent as well. Our son enjoyed the room service, which is still included on Princess and we love this!

We saw a couple of shows and found the guest entertainers to be very good. We opted not to see Magic to Do but of our friends/family some loved it and some didn't. What is fabulous about this ship is that there was always something happening, and something for everyone (both day and night). This ship always felt alive, whether it was that people were coming and going from a show venue, sitting at Crooners having a drink, sitting at the International cafe having coffee and a snack, at Skywalkers or at a deck party dancing or catching a movie or having a swim at the pool deck. During the day there was painting in the Piazza, crafts to be made, dancing lessons and more. Read more