We chose this cruise for the port itinerary and length of cruise. We've done a CNE twice before (7 and 14 days, in October) and wanted warmer weather, less rain this time.
We've cruised w Princess before and DH was not impressed with the food, about 5 years ago. However on this cruise, dinner was delightful each evening. We had My Time Dining and made reservations each day, always requesting Table 210 for 4# in the Island MDR. We landed at this table on Day 1, and the server, Viktoria R, was the absolute best waiter we have experienced on the seas. Attention to detail, recommendations were spot on for each of us, friendly, professional - she didn't miss a beat. We had 2 nights when our reservation was moved to another MDR, when we showed up, we were instructed to go elsewhere - which was a pain and no explanation was provided by the HW or host in the Island and when we arrived upstairs, that dining room team was confused as to why tables were being sent to them. After 2 nights of chaos, the reservation returned to table 210# and all was right in the world, at least for dinner. Memorable food - the prime rib, early in the cruise was outstanding, honey mustard dressing was raved about at the table, and a chocolate dessert - with cookies and ice cream was the bomb, but each night dinner at table 210# was a treat and no complaints from our foodies.
Now back to the review - after we booked, we learned about the new Medallions - registering online was difficult to take the photo, upload and the scan the passport, but we managed. A lot of passengers complained about the whole process. The biggest pain was poor communication about when to expect the Medallion to arrive. We completed all steps over 30 days prior to sail, and waited. No update. Finally about 10 days out the system indicated the Medallion was on the way, only to change the next morning online to unable to ship, not sufficient time to process and mail. I was terribly disappointed and resigned to picking it up at the port. Then one night, about 5 days before we departed, Fed Ex dropped off a small box, even though the status had no change. Packaging was nice, represented the company and new initiative well. It included a carry case and lanyard without any upcharge. We were set. Then 48 hours before we traveled, I got the email indicating the Medallion was on its way - by then it was already packed in my carry on.
We arrived the day before and had a rental car - visiting the beach. Our hotel provided a free cruise port shuttle, but no free breakfast.
We took the ferry to Manhattan and spent the day.
Loved this port. Rode the public bus out to the mansion and cliff walk.
Love the North End and Freedom Trail sites. Public Transportation is easy to navigate.
Love Bar Harbor! Took the public bus for a day at Acadia. A terrific day.
Sundays limit activities, we had to wait for retail to open.
We enjoy Halifax and Peggy's Cove. Rented a car for our tour.
Not a lot to do in Sydney - we walked around.
Excellent port - love the overnight visit. Day 1 Old City and Day 2 rented a car to visit St Anne's Basilica and the Falls. The basilica should be a bucket list item. It is amazing.
Our cruise did not stop here this time. WE have been there in the past.
We didn't stop there this time, but have in the past and enjoy visiting the Headlight and the port area. Great food.