I was nervous to sail as Omicron was just identified but I did feel “safe” as one could due to all the precautions/changes implemented by Princess. We were all vaccinated & tested negative just prior to sailing (proof required & reviewed), passengers were masked & distanced indoors and at venues (except for food & drink). Embarkation was amazingly swift with the medallion, Muster was modified to an in-room video and super quick check-in at our muster station (no crowd or wait). We were nestled in our room and ordering room service before noon.
The ship was maybe 1/3 full and we took advantage of all the extra perks available for the suite we booked last January. The room was dated, lacked USB ports and accessible electrical outlets but it was truly a beautiful large space that was bigger than my first apartment. The cruise, the suite and the ocean was our destination and we thoroughly enjoyed all 5 days onboard. We did not get off the ship in Cabo but enjoyed the Cabo weather and view from our large balcony with Jacuzzi tub. If we did not have the suite I might have booked a day at the Sanctuary which I sometimes like to do on port days. Meals were standard cruise fare but the special suite breakfast and expanded room service menu was great. The crew throughout the ship was masked and very attentive. There was all kinds of in room programs added to TV that we’re not available on previous cruises. While we spent a lot more time in room this cruise we did venture out. The Casino disallowed smoking mid-cruise due to Omnicron but that just added another layer to feeling safe and more slots to choose. The comedian was good and tailored his set to a small audience & COvID protocols. I had a wonderful mani/pedi at the Lotus Spa and a little sadly felt extra safe as no one else was there. Elevators were no wait and we were the only passengers on any lift we took.
While it was a little hassle to find a qualified fast test before the trip and get to LA I would have to say this was one of my favorite cruise experiences ever. I really enjoyed the reduced crowds, feeling pampered again, being at sea again, feeling a sense of the old normal again and just being on a cruise again. Days after our cruise the CDC posted a warning for cruises and I understand the risk but I do have to say that I felt safer on that cruise than I do in my hometown where so many are not vaccinated or masked.
The room was dated, lacked USB ports and accessible electrical outlets but it was truly a beautiful large space that was bigger than my first apartment. The suite and the ocean was our destination and we thoroughly enjoyed all 5 days onboard. We did not get off the ship in Cabo but enjoyed the Cabo weather and view from our large balcony with Jacuzzi tub. Meals were standard cruise fare but the special suite breakfast, expanded room service menu and in roomdining was great!
Loved the weather and port view but stayed on the ship both days.