Our second cruise with Princess and both in the same cabin, seven years apart. The ship looks well used, inside and out, though it still functions well, thanks to the efforts and boundless enthusiasm of the hardworking crew.

The best place for us on this ship has always been the Piazza. It’s central and has good coffee and cakes for a morning graze whilst you get to watch the world go by, hence the name. It’s best moments however, come later when the lights are on the double staircase and then it looks really gorgeous with a high ceiling full of twinkling stars. This cruise outdid itself by adding two glamorous sparklingly sequinned musicians centre stage from the first night. They played their violins like angels, then devils, then rock stars. Hopping across the world for their tunes, they made their electric instruments pull at heartstrings one minute then dance to the beat of their duelling violins. They are brilliant musicians and their performances were stunning. Many of the crew and staff came nightly just to hear one tune or to shout their appreciation at each finale. Their names are Leysan and Anastasia and for 9 months cruising they are Sense String Duo. If you are still on the ship, go hear them. If you are planning to go on the ship, lucky you, because they made each night very special for us. Thank you, Sense Duo - we look forward to buying a ticket to see you next time.

Embarkation was great to begin with as the bags were taken, then the rows of ladies quickly sorted us a token but step 3 - the ‘sit here and wait’ part seemed chaotic and cold, especially to a group of mainly 60 to 80+ year olds most of whom were travel tired and just wanted to sit down and be informed of the next step or even how long they might have to wait. I went to get water but was stopped and told to return to my seat as my token wasn’t the right colour - who knew? No-one informed us of anything - delays or Covid deep cleaning though recent reviews are revealing. A ship officer eventually spoke over a microphone telling us that we would soon be moving forward and after one final scrum, it all disappeared behind us and we were on board at last! Read more