I chose this cruise because of the itinerary which I have done often (so I can stay on board and treat port days as sea days) and invited my parents and sister to join me.

First the sad news - the Grand, a ship I LOVE, is a great lady who needs some rehab. There were small leaks all over the ship, chipped tiles in the bathroom, the sleeper sofa crunched when we sat on it, some non-functioning public bathrooms and overall, she's looking tired. According to a site I found on Google (princesscruisesFAQ) there is a drydock scheduled for her in March 2019 in San Francisco. Not sure this is reliable but there are no cruises scheduled for her between March 3 and March 20.

Now the HAPPY NEWS!!! She does carry herself proudly and the staff and crew are professional but also personable and friendly. They are the main reason why I cruise with Princess, their positive spirit is both reflected on and a reflection of the passengers. Very few grumpy gusses :) Read more