We chose this cruise for the itinerary and small ship cruising experience. We have been on a few cruises on ex Renaissance ships and know these well, but a first time for us with Princess. The itinerary was great despite losing 3 ports due to weather issues (Belfast was added). Some may complain that Princess only provided $250/person but we found it to be fair compared to other lines policies (see my Oceania review...)
We were very pleased with the quality of the service. Everybody was very nice and helpful. The food at the Club Restaurant was a pleasant surprise. We expected 3 star dining from this large cruise line and we rate it closer to 4 stars. Panorama buffet was OK and the poolside grill was very good despite limited selections. Princess offers wine packages although they do not communicate it on their website or even told us they did not offer it when we called they said we can only get $60/day beverage packages. Ask your waiter for the 7 bottle or 11 bottle cards, it provides a saving of about 25%.
We only took 5 excursions but most were pretty good and reasonably priced (all things being relative...say if you compare with Celebrity or Oceania)
Back to back cruises with cabin change. Relatively small but comfortable, refurbished recently. Excellent bed and linen. Bathroom very small (typical of there ex Renaissance ships). Bad balcony: teak decking replaced with cheap plastic mats. leaking pipes overhead, old chairs. Leaky patio doors made the room cold on this arctic circle voyage