We are seasoned cruisers (over 50) and probably have different expectations and reasons for cruising. This was our 8th trip to Alaska, so shore excursions were not a priority for us.

We embarked in Vancouver and all things considered, it went fairly well. No matter how you get to the terminal, everyone has to go through customs, perhaps for the second time if you flew in. It took about an hour and a half in line before we were able to board, but we arrived at the cruise terminal around 12:30 p.m. Lines will probably be longer when ships initially start the boarding process and if there are more ships in port. Nothing any cruise line can do to speed up that process. Here’s my tip for anyone who hasn’t sailed from Vancouver. If you arrive by air, and you are able to move your luggage with relative ease, there is a train (The Canada Line) that has a stop right at the Vancouver Airport. It drops you at the Waterfront Station and from there is it a block and ½ walk to the cruise terminal. Cost is about $6/7 per person and only $2 for seniors. Beats the cost of taxis and bus transfers and is easy to navigate.

Once onboard, we checked out our cabin, had a bit of lunch in the buffet and explored the ship. We found the Coral princess to be a very good choice for this trip. It is considered a medium sized ship in today’s menagerie of mega-ships. I thought it was just the right size and we never felt crowded. Others have commented on her age and felt she needed some updating. Perhaps, but we did not feel that way. The décor is quite elegant. The atrium area covered 4 decks with scenic elevators and is generally the hub of things to do and places to go. The Wheelhouse bar is reminiscent of a posh men’s club. Wood accents, leather chairs, small band and stage area and a bar at the back. Good place for wine and chilling. The Explorer Lounge, where many events happen (art auction, game shows, evening dancing, etc.) is midship and offers a casual small club feel. The Universe Lounge (Aft) is a much larger, two deck entertainment venue and is used for some of the live entertainment, including production shows. The Princess Theater is forward, theater style (bar service is by servers) and acts as one of the primary venues for live entertainment. The ship has a smaller casino than others we have sailed. Read more