Solely for the itinerary. Suspected that we would hate the cruise and we did! Can’t understand why 3000 people would want to be herded onto a ship and subjected to constant noise, demented entertainments (vegetable carving?!) and dreadful formal nights. Every restaurant seemed to have third rate singers belting out songs we hoped we’d never hear again. We had to time our meals during the time they mercifully took a break.

The public rooms were a nightmare of faux marble, glitzy gilt and carvings, swooping staircases and dreadful ‘art’. Mercifully our cabin was a haven of quiet and very comfortable. We spent a lot of time in it,

Food was good, but having to queue up for it, buffet style did not appeal. Staff were friendly and efficient. The organisation of the ship was amazing but why anyone would want to go on a cruise is still beyond me. Yes, it appeared to be good value, until the extras started appearing. The cost of the shore excursions was breathtaking. Much better to book independently when you disembark (or ‘debark’ as Princess call it) or on the internet beforehand. And watch the tipping - unless you opt out. Read more