Missysole

We were also on the Island for the late November/early December partial transit.  Having done nearly the same cruise some 10 years ago on the Coral, was excited as we prefer this size ship.  Had an amazing, time (because as others have said - the ship should not dictate your experience!) - but we won't sail her again.   

If you're active - the Promenade cutout is inconvenient and ugly (IMHO), the gym was moved to a cave on 6 and the 'active' activities were pretty much eliminated save for paid exercise classes in the aforementioned cave.  There is only one outdoor pool which we knew going in, but I had higher hopes for the splash pool which is about 10" deep.  So - when the pool was busy, it was busy.

We sorely missed the Vista Lounge. Bingo in Explorer's Lounge just wasn't the same and with one less public venue, they were always in transition from one activity (such as an art auction) to another very quickly.  We had to wait until one was over before we could be seated and order drinks, etc..  We're a group that likes a casino and while the bar service couldn't be beat - the casino itself was a bit bastardized during the renovation.  For us it was too small and oddly shaped. There is no circulation in one section (because they didn't properly drop the ventilation during the renovation).  

Had no issues with the ship itself in terms of leaking, creaking, sooting, long lines, broken anything, etc.  The overall layout was easy to navigate, as others have said - our sailing was not overcrowded.  It's a 'simple' ship in many interpretations. That's why we chose her in the first place - but for the reasons I've mentioned, we have selected to go back on the Star for our next sailing (more pools, full walking deck, larger casino, a gym with windows, the Vista lounge, etc.).    

Ultimately you have to prioritize what's most important to you when picking an itinerary, a ship - as well as your cruisemates!  

Was on Island Princess over Thanksgiving - full suite had bar soaps, bottles of shampoo, conditioner, lotion.  Stationary (not personalized), we had escargot on the menu, straws in our drinks (paper), canvas tote bags and slippers in our room.

We attended the 'chat with officers' and they are moving to bulk items to reduce waste and said alternative sweeteners are next. I think the bulbous brown and white sugar dispensers are effective and sanitary - you're not sticking anything like a spoon into a bowl - it's just a pour dispenser. 

That said - did notice many other changes that indicate cuts such as no more passing cookies & hot cocoa at MUTS, the ice cream is only 2 flavors and only sprinkles for a topping, etc. 

Oh - and we also got chocolate covered strawberries on formal nights.

Overall we still heart Princess, though. And it's remains a good deal for us. 

I just received a notice saying our November 26th boarding time in FLL will not begin until 1:00 pm - no exceptions (even for Elite/Suite passengers). Anyone else get this or know why this may be the case? 

EDIT: I just reread the email and it says: "Please do not arrive at the terminal prior to 1:00 PM as additional immigration formalities and a U.S. Coast Guard Drill requiring participation from all crew members will be taking place upon the ship's arrival. Embarkation cannot begin until these formalities are complete."

Not that great is a generous statement.  We are going on our 5th Thanksgiving cruise this year and the turkey dinner is a far cry from traditional and, as mentioned, is not hand carved. We always cook one at home when we return. Small price to pay for 10 days of otherwise wonderful vacation....