February in the South has been a chilly one this year. I am glad I booked this late Feb trip to my favorite part of the Caribbean, Eastern. It was just the right time to get a sunny warm up while winter lingers in South Carolina. St. Maarten and St. Thomas are great ports. 7 Day Eastern Caribbean on Caribbean Princess. Older ship, dry docked in 2017 for upgrades and the first ship in the Princess fleet I believe to go 100% live with Ocean Medallion. First item regarding older Princess ships, suites have nice big balconies which I have missed while cruising the Royal and Regal. Ok, the atrium is smaller, the Crooner Bar is smaller so is the Good Spirits Bar at the International Cafe but that lends itself to a more intimate experience where you spend time with the other guests.

Crew goes out of their way to make you feel at home and comfortable. Crown Grill got 100% from me for this trip. Club Class anytime dining was super! It was all of the great comforts you expect and want from a familiar Princess Cruise. Ocean Medallion has some glitches to work out but for the most part it did its job. They are coming out with watch bands soon that you can put your medallion in and wear. Much needed! Embarkations and Disembarkation were THE smoothest and quickest I have ever experienced on any cruise line. Staff and crew are excellent. Shopping and Art Auctions were so much fun. If you have never cruised, this ship will spoil you for the other lines the next time you cruise. 7 days is just right on this ship.