Royal Princess Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Embarkation absolutely fastest, friendliest and most-efficient ever. Really enjoyed this experience, as well as sail away from Fort Lauderdale.
The ship is big, and manages crowds well. Anytime dining was a good option, and the Symphony dining room staff is great. Warm greetings, good service and good conversation with fellow passengers, too.
We chose this cruise for the new experience to explore the Atlantic side of South America, specifically Montevideo and Buenos Aires. We mostly enjoy sea days for the relaxation, and excursions not a priority. Rio was a nice plus, with a good, albeit brief tour of Sugarloaf. An overnight here would have been welcomed, if anyone's listening. Fortaleza was a disappointment, with a tour guide who barely spoke English, never led the group anywhere, and thanks to a delay exiting the ship had to bring us back early.
Cabin Review
Balcony
Staterooms are average in size, but the open closet makes a much nicer shower-to-clothes experience. We did not miss the sofa, and enjoyed the extra space. The balcony is your typical 42 sq. ft., but the chairs are adjustable for sunning. Mimi, our cabin attendant was a lot of fun, and really made our stay enjoyable.
This is only two decks down from good coffee in the Lido, and three from the fitness center. Self-service laundry is just up the hall from this room. I recommend 4-5 a.m. if you want to get in without a wait. The token machines are frequently out of service, so be sure to get your tokens before you lug your clothes down there.
Port Reviews
Antigua
St. John has a lovely little town, but be prepared to have independent tours hawked at least a hundred times if you plan to walk around on your own. Cute little shops over by the docks, but if it's a rainy day, be prepared to experience some strong septic aromas.
Barbados
Wonderful trip on catamaran. Be sure to specify the 'catamaran' when booking, as the alternative is a diesel vessel.
Port of Spain (Trinidad)
We really enjoyed some scenic vistas, a walk through the gardens, and a visit to Maracas beach.
Rio de Janeiro
Long lines resulted in 5 minutes' time at the top for photos, shopping and refreshments. Would prefer more time there, and less time driving by beaches.
Montevideo
Informative and picturesque...certainly a place that needs further exploration.
Buenos Aires
The port sucks, but the city is beautiful. We disembarked here. Cabs were not easy to obtain, and people waited hours to get one.