This was my second cruise on Princess to Hawaii. It proved to be one of the best I have ever taken. The Star Princess had just left dry dock where the new sea witch was painted on the hull along with re-carpeting of common areas and replacement of the furniture in Horizon Court. Furniture in the Wheel House and other venues, International Café was also improved. The one thing I was most looking forward to was the new bedding in all cabins. That was the only item that was less than perfect for me. New linens were very nice but the mattress was very soft and left me with a soar back some mornings.
I can't say enough about the service and food that we received. This was my first cruise as an Elite Captains Circle member. The stocked mini bar was a wonderful perk. I didn't take advantage of the free laundry as just doing some pieces in the laundromat proved more efficient and quicker. The cruise was completely sold out and we received notice that the ships laundry might take as long as 3 days to get back. Still this was not a problem for us.
Our room steward was outstanding and all the staff I interacted with and even those I just passed in the halls smiled and seemed engaged with making the cruise a success.
Princess offered a discounted upgrade and when I saw this cabin was available I jumped on it. I knew from previous cruises that this balcony would be oversized and we were not disappointed. Got plenty of exercise as it's the last aft cabin on the ship. Still loved every minute of it.
Toured local shopping and dining venues right off of tender drop off point.