We actually took this cruise because our good friends wanted to go to Hawaii and they like sea days. I'd read previous reviews , most of which were negative. Everyone was complaining about the condition of the Emerald Princess and how poor the staff were and bad food on board. WELL, I want to tell you they are all wrong!! The ship is due for a referb but it's by no means shabby. Everything was clean and shiny and everyone we came in contact with was OUTSTANDING! We'd never encountered a more service oriented or happy crew in all capacities and this was our 27th cruise. The quality of the food was EXCELLENT. The menus were imaginative and delicious and the Michelangelo Dining Room staff was top rate! Our waiter and his assistant (Lito and Jeffrey) were delightful and made our dining experience memorable every evening. Their Manager Alexander was so interested in how we were enjoying our meals. The cabin steward (Marlon) was pleasant and efficient and our balcony cabin was extremely comfortable.

During the entire cruise we were contending with a big storm out of the North and our wonderful Captain Todd made it into all our appointed ports where others cancelled days ahead. He made a decision to stay safely in port in Hilo as the winds and waves were gale force that night. Everyone certainly appreciated that decision!. We had a Valentine's Day surprise where the Captain renewed our vows and presented us with a lovely certificate signed by him! Sorry this is so lengthy but I wanted to put a positive word in for this lovely older ship and her amazing crew.