Diehard X cruiser considering Princess

[CruiseQueen13]

Chess - I think you'll enjoy it. We've tried many different cruiselines and here are my thoughts Celebrity vs. Princess.

 

Food & Service (that pampered feeling) - hands down Celebrity!

Daily Activities - Princess

Courteous staff - Celebrity (while Princess is very good, X goes the extra)

Cabins - Princess a tad nicer

Kids' Program - about equal

Spa - I found Princess a bit better

 

Enjoy!

[donnaw]

Well, we're doing it. We're sailing on the CB in October. Thanks to everyone for their input.

 

We do both and enjoy them equally but have found that the Grand class is a bit of a culture shock with PC dining. CP has more passengers so will be even more so if you tend to eat at the traditional dinner hour (think one of those little beepers). It is hard to get since 2/3 is pc dining but you would probably enjoy your first Princess cruise more if you could arrange for traditional dining especially since the CP itinerary isn't really port intensive.

 

Have a great time!

[fouti123]

Hello to all,

My husband and I just got off the Celebrity Constellation this Friday.We were on for 12 days. I have been on Princess,RCCL & Carnival. Everyone told me to try Celebrity so we booked a cc cabin. In a nutshell, my husband and I have decided not to try Celebrity again for a long time. I think it was so built up that I really did not find it to be any different than the others. I think you will like Princess and I like having a choice for dining. On Celebrity there was no food late in the evening except for dry pizza & pasta. I have to say(and I know I will get blasted) that the new Carnival ships food is excellent. I did not even have one memorable dessert in 12 days. The Ocean Liners specialty restaurant for $30 each was not worth it. Now Chops on the Brilliance of the Seas was the best specialty restaurant and I would try that again. In fact my brother ate there 5 nights!!! Celebrity's cabins are also much smaller than the other lines.

The Carribean Princess does have one more deck, so I would avoid sailing on her. The Grand was fabulous.

Good luck with your decision.

[Bisous3]

I've taken X 8 times and Princess twice- the last time being the Caribbean Princess this past Thanksgiving. I agree with Cruise Queen on her assessment with the exception of the kids club. Princess obviously has a much bigger budget in this department. They far surpass X IMHO.

 

The Caribbean Princess was just WAY to big when you prefer the intimacy of such ships as the Century. I loved the Island Princess though and that will always be one of my favorite cruises.

 

We LOVE LOVE LOVE anytime dining and its something we always look forward to when cruising with Princess.

 

What your food tastes are will also probably play a part in what your take is on each line. Celebrity has a French head chef (Michel Roux) and Princess' is Italian (don't know his name....sorry) . The Italian food on Princess is terrific (and I am 100% Italian and VERY PICKY)....the pizza is awesome...and the French food on X is exellent (dh is 100% French and concurs).

 

Either way- a lot depends on how open you are to change......have fun whatever you decide!

[ted1717]

Folks we are frequent cruisers with 14 in 5 years. We have been with RCCL , Celebrity and Princess.

I would ask you all to stop and think about this, each of these cruise lines offers a superior product, each has a different "best", within each cruise line we each have personal preferences among their ship designs!

BUT would any of us chosse to stay home and go to work rather than be on any of these cruise lines ships?

This is a simple choice! Go and enjoy! If one meal is just "ok" move on! If one show is disappointing, go out on your balcony and enjoy the show in the night sky. This is vacation and NOWHERE ELSE BUT ON A SHIP WILL YOU BE TREATED SO GRAND.

 

Personally we prefer the food on Celebrity, the cabins and activities on Princess. We prefer personal choice but would take the late seating in traditionla dining. We have found the repeat cruiser rewards on Princess come sooner and come in the form of unexpected upgrades( not on Alaska itinerieries however).

 

We say pick the stops you want and whatever ship goes there of either Celebrity or Princess go and enjoy!

 

Happy cruising!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Liat]

We have sailed on 17 cruises, including 3 on Princess and 6 on X. We have three more Celebrity cruises booked.

We greatly enjoyed the Princess Alaska Cruise Tour; partly because they arranged the land portion so well.

We also were delighted by a Cruise Tour which took us to Budapest, Vienna and Prague for 6 days before embarking on Regal Princess for a Baltic cruise.

Again, the land portion was extremely well run by a first class Swiss company hired by Princess.

We also note that Princess goes places that Celebrity does not, and may do Australia/New Zeeland on Princess in 2008

We were not thrilled by Diamond Princess on a very routine Mexican Riviera cruise in November 2004.

If Crystal sets the ON BOARD standard (and it really does) at 99 [nobody achieves 100]; then Oceania and Celebrity come in at 96; HAL 92 and Princess 90. Forget the rest.

It is difficult to compare or rate lines on their OFF SHIP services and overall itineraries because of the vast differences in fleet sizes and widely fluctuating costs associated with exotic trips.

[DGF]

Here is a our experience aboard the Tahitian Princess, the cruise ship we currenlty use to based our comariosns

 

Tahitian Princess- 10 day cruise of French Polynesian Islands incl two days at sea to Cook Islands, Sept, 2003

 

We flew to the French islands using Aeroplan points (Toronto thru Los Angeles on Air Canada and Air New Zealand portion to Papeete). Restrictions on availability of Aeroplan flights resulted in a four day costly layover prior to our 10 day cruise on the Tahitian Princess (Note we booked the flights over 11 months before departure but still had problem with getting desired flights.) We recuperated from the long overnight flight in Papeete (Island of Tahiti) for two days, joined our friends on the Island of Mooreaand then returned to Papeete to board the Tahitian Princess. The only entrance way to French Polynesian Islands when we flew were through Papeete from Los Angeles (Air New Zealand and Air Tahiti Nui) and Hawaiian Airlines from Honolulu. Our Air New Zealand was an over night 9 hr flight. If you are not flying on to Cook Islands (in 2003 only flights were on Air New Zealand), you may wish to review flight schedules for Air Tahiti Nui and Hawaiian Airlines which had day flights into Papette

 

The Tahitian Princess is one of the four former 30,000 ton ships of the Renaissance fleet (small cruise ships) which went bankrupt. Much to the credit of Princess they left the décor package (Renaissance) and ship layout in tact, restricting up grades to worn out items. Has a passenger load of 680 approx and a crew of 370 approx

 

We can not praise this ship, its staff, the food, and itinerary enough. This is the best cruise we have been on. The dinners were all memorable experiences, with the food ranging from very good to gourmet with the attentive staff providing extras such as allowing us (table of four) to add a fifth dish placed in the middle of the table to be shared. The ship, being only 30,000 tons, worked well without the normal boarding and disembarkation hassles (Tahitian Princess in fact allows you stay on board the day of your departure using all of the ship's amenities, including dining, other than your cabin, until your flight departs = some of the guests were still on board late into the evening on the eve of our departure). The itinerary can be best described as a "cruise thru paradise"- the French Polynesian Islands are some of the most beautiful we have visited, many of the islands being volcanic with rugged black peaks covered with green foliage tapering off and disappearing at the shoreline into clear azure blue water. Many of the lagoons, especially those in Bora Bora are outstanding. Our cruise also included a side trip to the Cook Island of Rarotonga, allowing for two relaxing days at sea. One of our company staff took the same cruise in September 2004 and had similar experience to ours

 

 

Cabin 8027- Deck 8, veranda

 

Noise- very good insulation between cabins = no horizontal noise pollution. During the day there was, from time to time, a thumping noise from above (not loud enough to be a real problem). Could not determine the cause since only deck chairs around the pool above cabin (may have been jogging track two decks up)

 

Sleeping- twin beds together. Comfortable, no problem

 

Washroom- shower, sink, cabinet. Tight but satisfactory. Could have had more shelf space. Intensity and volume of water in shower lacking

 

Furniture- i) one chair for desk/ make up table, one sofa chair and small corner round coffee table, two end tables for bed = need another sofa/ chair; ii) TV with CNN and travel channel; iii). Safe for storage of valuables; iv) Electrical- plug in washroom for North American current for razor; v) AC- individual control in cabin which held room temperature at 70 F at night for sleeping

 

Balcony- two plastic chairs, plus small plastic coffee table just large enough to put breakfast food tray on in the morning. Adequate size for furniture and for two to use. Partition aft was solid. Partition bow was only partial and removable = restricted privacy/ not full privacy.

 

Conclusion- Excellent room size for short cruise of one to two weeks. Given the scenery would recommend a cabin with a veranda. Only problem encountered was insufficient shelf space. More than adequate hanging space in closets. For longer cruises would take a larger cabin (Mini suite on Deck 8 which is larger, more furnishings and larger bathroom with tub). Next time- same room category but would go as low as possible with the same category (when party on the pool deck can be heard in the cabin- one night only in Raiatea. Also lower the deck the less the motion and will save money)

 

Itinerary- Excellent. Time in ports sufficient to get a good feel for each island (for details see following)

 

Embarkation & Disembarkation- Smooth and efficient.No line ups for either. Princess allows departing passengers to stay on board to use all the facilities other than their cabin = provide you with meals until you leave = excellent and considerate service by Princess

 

Ship décor- Renaissance- upscale, very good

 

Food- Dinners were a memorable experience. Good choices each night and excellent quality food. Did not have a bad meal in whole trip. Also discovered that waiters would allow more than one course as well as special orders = we started to order a fifth main course, put in the middle of the table and shared. Also enquired as to special menu items being prepared for high end cabins and allowed to order when available. Executive Chef was Cluade Palloure. Have option of reserving in two specialty restaurants- Sabatini Room, Deck 10 at a cost of US $20 each. Recommend that you skip lunch. Our experience- Italian menu, started to bring one serving after another and went on for two hours. Could make choices per course. Two parts of menu were selection- soup and main course (permitted you to double up/ select two and sample both). Conclusion- excellent and RECOMMEND you treat yourself for one night. Also Sterling Steakhouse Grill, which we did not indulge (also extra charge)

 

Service- Dining room was equal to service in gourmet restaurant. General- excellent throughout the ship. Staff are really trying to accomplish a standard of excellence

 

Size/ facilities- Equal to large cruise ships. Did not feel crowded at anytime. Very good gym with full equipment other than no graviton

 

Entertainment- Standard fare on a cruise ship (some of shows needed help), added bonus of Four Tahitian shows by local groups were good to excellent = no need to see a Tahitian show prior to cruise

 

Information on daily activities and ports of call- as on other cruise ships, each evening you receive a news letter "Princess Patter" delivered to your cabin, outlining in detail the activities available and times for the next day (ship runs an extensive daily program). In addition you receive an Adventures Ashore Port Guide

 

Internet room- very slow, could not download and save to a disc, could not hook up lap top. Several days unable to use.

 

Casino- smoking was permitted and resulted in the room not being suitable when crowded. Otherwise friendly helpful dealers. We had some success on one arm bandits- luck or better odds?

 

Princess charter flights- do not use. Many complaints as to tightness of seating and food

 

Excursions- On the whole, Princess excursions were very good (only one not that great). NOTE: book your excursions ASAP using the Princess Web sites. By the time you board the ship the good ones will likely be booked. We found that one month prior to departure some were booked

 

Details on Itinerary:

 

Day One & Two-Island of Tahiti/ Papeete

 

Note: French Polynesian Islands are quite often incorrectly called Tahiti. In fact one of the islands is called Tahiti on which is located the capital Papeete (where the international flights land and cruise ship departs) and the rest of the islands have different names. Ship stays overnight in Tahiti, allowing you a full day for touring plus what you can squeeze into your day of arrival. This also allows disembarking passengers the option of staying on board as previously mentioned until their late evening flights.

 

On day of embarkation, after getting into your cabin you may want to go ashore to the Municipal Public Market and purchase bouquets of flowers for 500 CPF each (total Cnd $13.31) to put in your cabin = adds a nice touch to cabin

 

We elected to rent a car and tour the island with our friends on our own. Cost to rent car for day was $199 Cnd (exorbitant which we split between the two families). Good road system. Did the following routing and sights:

 

Set car km at 0. Markers on the road give distance between Papeete and isthmus of Taravao (numbers facing the ocean are distance from Papeete; numbers facing you are distance from isthmus of Taravao)

 

5.5 km east of Papeete- James Norman Hall Home - replica of home of co author of Mutiny on the Bounty (we just drove by and did not stop)

 

8.0 km east of Papeete-OneTreeHill- site of Hyatt Regency where we stayed in 1990, now closed. Pull into round about at entrance and look down on the north coast all the way from MatavaiBay to Papeete (RECOMMEND).

 

10.0 km east of Papeete- Point Venus- black sand beach and park. Location reportedly where Captain Cook studied the transit of Venus across the sun. Historical light house (Interesting)

 

22.0 km east of Papeete- Arahoho Blowholes- waves crashing in against rocks push water through a hole in the rocks (Interesting)

 

22.1 km- 1.5 km off road up valley to Faarumai Waterfalls. Had to walk up a trail but due to time constraints decided not to go

 

Tahiti Iti- Travavao Plateau Overlook- view of the entire isthmus and down both sides of Tahiti Nui followed by picturesque road along the south coast if Tahiti Iti

 

51.2 km west of Papeete- Musee Gauguin and HarrisonSmithBotanicalGardensMuseum- 600 CFP ($8.00); Garden- 300 CFP ($4.00) (RECOMMEND Museum, did not visit garden). After tour of museum stopped around 1:30 PM, had a beer in the restaurant which was part of the Museum grounds (frequented by locals), but is different from the Gauguin restaurant at the Museum where tour buses stop off. Web site for further info- Gauguin Museum (www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/gauguin/) ( http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=http://www.jaduland.de/kolonien/suedsee/suedsee/inseln/gauguin.html&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dgauguin%2Bmuseum%2Btahiti%26start%3D10%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26ie%3DUTF-8%26oe%3DUTF-8%26sa%3DN)

 

22.5 km west of Papeete- Arahurahu- only marae- ancient temple or meeting place-in all of Polynesia that has been restored

 

15 km west of Papeete- Musee de Tahiti et Ses Isles (Museum of Tahiti) and her islands)

 

Stopped off for gasoline on way back at cost of 1600 CPF ($21.30) which had to be paid for by cash (would not take a credit card for an amount less than 2,000 CPF).

 

Conclusion- Trip around island is interesting and way to get a "good feel" for Tahiti, but is not as scenic as Moorea.

 

Additional notes on Island of Tahiti:

 

Taxis are expensive. Bus, which is safe to use, is very cheap. Note some of the Canadian bank cards do not work in the local ATM (check with your bank)

 

Since we had a couple of days in Papeete, we also had the opportunity of walking downtown Papeete doing the following- Walked the water front, starting at Tahiti Visitors centre at cruise ship dock (Blvd Pomare at foot of Paul Gauguin) seeing the following sites:

 

Centre Vaima- two to three level shopping centre but was closed since Sunday (visited it at other times and found some interesting shops)

 

Walked westward on Boardwalk along the harbour front, Past the Quay (cruising yachts), Parc Bougainville and Pacific Battalion Monument, Protestant Church (Eglise Evangelique)- largest Protestant church in French Polynesia, Place Toata- a park built on a landfill site

 

and then walked on down to the Sheraton Hotel where watched a free Tahitian dance put on for people having lunch (sitting in the bar you could also see the show = 3 beers for 870 CFP (Cnd $11.37)). Dining area out over the water (blue ocean water/ not clear lagoon). Sheraton has no beach but does have unrestricted view of Moorea shrouded in clouds - beautiful scene especially with setting sun.

 

After show wandered back to Downtown via Rue du General de Gaulle passing by Place Tarahoi- Papeete's government centre, Cathedrale de L'Immaculee Conception, and Papeete Town Hall

 

Stopped off for one tea and apple pie (they called it an apple tart) at Le Retro, an open air limited menu restaurant on the main street at cost of 870 CPF (Cnd $11.37).

 

Can get map with directions from Tahiti Tourist office. This walk will give you a flavour of Island of Tahiti. Note: Downtown area does not compare to those of many Caribbean ports in shops, décor, or entertainment = you may find it a disappointment

 

Day Three- Huahine

 

Shore excursion- Princess Huahine Snorkel Safari. Limited coral and fish to view. Do not recommend. There are better snorkelling trips available on this trip. If we knew what we do now, would have pre arranged alternative excursions either thru Princess or directly with local tour operators and spent a full day to explore this beautiful undeveloped island.

 

NOTE: Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel and snorkel vest) - is included but quite basic and fins are not provided. Recommend you bring your own snorkeling equipment with you for all snorkelling trips on ship, which we did. If you are a poor swimmer, like I am, bring along a PDF 2 life jacket which worked great for me, and gave me the confidence and security of paddling around in the "middle of the ocean".

 

Further info on Huahine- (www.huahine.com) From the web- "HuahineIsland: Undiscovered Paradise. Huahine is, arguably, the most picturesque island in all of French Polynesia...With steep mountains descending into protected bays of azure blue and emerald green colors, the island is also one of the more geographically diverse of the Society Group. Also known as "The Garden Island" due to its abundance of lush green tropical foliage and wild jungle-like scenery, Huahine is one of the more interesting of the Society Islands to explore".

"Huahine itself is actually 2 islands known as Huahine-Nui and Huahine-Iti (Big Huahine and little Huahine). Interconnected by a bridge. There are many things that make Huahine stand out among the Society islands, but perhaps the most treasured one is the much sought after idea of solitude and quietness.Similar to its cousins Raiatea and Tahaa, Huahine is far less touristy than Moorea, Bora Bora and Tahiti. There's also an abundance of long and beautiful white sandy beaches on Huahine... and the good news is that on this island, most of them are easily accessible for total quality beach and sun worshipping." Another good web site - www.gototahiti.com/islands/huahine/huahine.asp

Day Five- Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Did island on our own, renting a car from Avis NZ $60 (Cnd$48.82). Itinerary we had planned to follow was to drive around the island but one of our party fell on a rock while walking and had to return to the ship for seven stitches (be careful).

 

Your ship will dock in Avarua and is a short walk to Avis/ small downtown.

 

Sights worth considering:

 

Local watering troughs in Avarua- Bluenote café in Banana Court restaurant; Trader's Jack

 

See the locals at church (on Sundays)- Ziona Tapu (Avarua Cook Island Christian Church) for 10:00 AM service- choir very good. Service in English and native language = a memorable experience. You will be able to join the local parishioners for tea and a snack after the service. Locals are very friendly.

 

MuriBeach, gaining access to the beach at the Sailing Club (www.sailsrestaurant.co.ck/htmlpages/sailsrestaurantrsc.htm)- nice spot for a refreshing drink on the veranda overlooking the beautiful sand beach and looking out to the small off shore islands. Also good beach for swimming.

 

Cultural Centre- http://www.culture.gov.ck/about.htm. Note: you can either do this on one of the Princess Shore excursions or arranged on your own. If you do on own book weeks in advance over the web, since it is sold out during the day the cruise ship is in port.

 

Rent a kayak- A memorable event is to rent a kayak and take out onto the lagoon off Muri paddling out to the small islands and swimming off the beautiful sand beach (Princess uses one of the islands for an excursion) . Shallow water (you can stand)

 

Our experience on shopping in Avarua, based on staying in Raratonga for six days after the cruise- is limited. i) Two Perfume Factories and large T Shirt shop- not of interest, ii) Island Crafts and Beachcomer Ltd. RECOMMEND. iii) There is an outdoor market but only on a Saturday. The island is known for its natural beauty, lower costs than French Polynesian Islands, not its shopping

 

Note: Princess has some good shore excursions. To drive in Rarotonga, you will need to get Cook Island driver's license at a cost of NZ $10.00. Two doors down from Avis- Picture taken with 20 minute wait. Excellent souvenir

 

More info on Rarotonga: http://www.rarotonga-cook-islands.com/rarotonga.html. From one of the web sites- "Rarotonga Cook Islands is a volcanic island about 26 sq. miles. It is 20 miles (32k) in circumference, making for a short drive. The highest peak is 2140 feet (658m) above sea level and the island is surrounded by a lagoon which extends several hundred yards to the reef which then slopes steeply to deep water = a very picturesque laid back island. "Avarua is the main town on Rarotonga and extends east from the airport. The town is quite small with a few supermarkets, two banks both with ATM machines (ANZ and Westpac), several restaurants / cafes, internet booths and lots of small boutiques specialising in the sale of black pearls and fine handicrafts. The north coast (http://www.rarotonga-cook-islands.com/north-raro.html) is a good base with access to AvaruaTown, shops, restaurants and bars. The east coast(http://www.rarotonga-cook-islands.com/muri-beach.html), notably MuriBeach, is the premier beach destination. The south coast (http://www.rarotonga-cook-islands.com/south-raro.html) has lovely beaches and stunning mountain views. Finally, the west coast (http://www.rarotonga-cook-islands.com/west-raro.html) has the second highest concentration of accommodation with long sweeping wind-protected beaches, the 9-hole golf course and lovely sunsets.". Further web sites- http://www.ck/raro.htm; http://www.cook-islands.com/openFrames.htm

 

Day Seven- Raiatea & Tahaa

 

Not organized for this day. Had planned walk in the morning and lagoon sail in the afternoon, but were still on wait list. However at the dock were several tour operators where we made a selection for 9:30 AM local tour- took a boat out to the motu off Tahaa plus to Tahaa for vanilla plantation. 3,500 CPF / person (Cnd $46.25). (cost to go to motu only was 2,500 CPF/ person (Cnd$33.00) = better deal). 20 minute ride by boat each way. Perfect snorkelling for beginners- walk in from the sand beach. Can stand up throughout. RECOMMEND. Only problem is that run boats at a fast pace = rough ride and can not enjoy the beautiful lagoon. Next time- do again but try to find a different & slower boat

 

5:15 PM- On board ship- Outstanding Tahitian show put on by the children of Raiatea & Tahaa. (RECOMMEND). Can purchase flower leis for 500 CPF= good value, and souvenirs from locals who also come aboard ship

 

10:00 PM On board show- Adult Tahitian dance show which was to have been out on the deck but due to weather was inside- "Dancers, Singers and Musicians of Raiatea". Some of the troupe were excellent and others in the learning stage.

 

Further info on Raiatea & Tahaa- www.raiatea.com/ Taken from the web- "Far less traveled than Bora Bora, Tahiti, or Moorea, these two fascinating islands offer the vacationer the experience of a true unspoiled French Polynesia. The larger of the two islands, Raiatea, is only slightly smaller than Tahiti itself. This makes Raiatea the second largest Island in the French Polynesian Archipelago known as the Society Islands, and the largest of the "Leewards."

 

Raiatea itself is recognized throughout Tahiti as it's "SacredIsland"- the cultural heart of all Tahiti Polynesia. It is believed by historians that Raiatea was the main stopover point for early Polynesians newly arrived from Hawaii, then known as Hav'aii. The Island holds much fascinating history, legend, and lore, as well as Tahiti's most significant archaeological sites.

Tahaa, slightly smaller and less populated than Raiatea, shares a wonderful lagoon rich in sea life and water sports activities such as scuba diving, windsurfing, and outrigger canoeing.The surrounding waters of both Islands are also known for sailing, yachting, and sport fishing. Tahaa's nickname is the "Vanilla Island"- because of it's constant rich aroma of vanilla. In fact, the Island boasts a full 80% of all Tahiti's Vanilla production. Both Islands are also inundated with Pearl Farms." A good web site- www.gototahiti.com/islands/raiatea/raiatea.asp

 

Day Eight- sail past Tahaa to Bora Bora and full Day Nine Bora Bora

 

Beautiful departure cruising past Tahaa inside the lagoon and spectacular entrance into Bora Bora anchoring off Vaitape

 

We again elected to rent a car and tour the island on our own. Rented 4 dr AC mid size (actually between compact & mid size) from European Car rental for four hours (negotiated for car return at 4:30 PM) for 8,150 CPF plus 1,000 CPF for gasoline (Total Cnd $120.95; exorbitant but shared between two families). Note: There was a shuttle bus for 300 CPF (Cnd $4.00) which goes to public beach at Mitira Point (just down from Hotel Bora Bora. Will stop off at Bloody Mary's and Hotel Bora Bora = if did not want to tour the island this shuttle will take you to a nice sand beach, good swimming and snorkelling off the beach. Good value

 

On Day eight, we drove the island counter clock wise, past Bloody Mary's bar and restaurant (an island institution), stopped off for a drink at Hotel Bora Bora - one drink a piece cost 2400 CPF for two ($31.71 Cnd) (still the most beautiful lagoon we have ever seen, - RECOMMEND- continued on around island to Bora Bora Yacht Club (basic and not open) and back to Bloody Mary's for pictures. A very very scenic island

 

Day Nine- AM- Our friends partook in Princess Bora Bora Snorkel Safari. Reported an excellent excursion where saw Bora Bora’s marine life up close on a 2-hour lagoon snorkel. The marine life included butterfly fish, grouper and parrot fish among hundreds of other species.RECOMMEND. PM- Princess Lagoon cruise on catamaran/ Motu Lagoon Cruise - Boarded a 33-foot vessel, Moana, designed specifically to navigate the shallow parts of the lagoon and explored the beautiful lagoons. A roof protected us from the sun while we cruised from Vaitape Bay, around Matira Point, and past beautiful Anau Bay. Took a stop where we swam in the ocean on a sand reef (water up to chest). One of the crew played an instrument and sang. Put on a show wrapping the ladies in a sarong. Provided fruit drinks, water, and rum drinks after swimming. Excellent and RECOMMEND

 

Further info on Bora Bora- Positive- Is the most scenic of the islands we have ever visited - Two towering peaks of sheer black rock dominate the center of the island and make an impressive backdrop to an assortment of beautiful blue lagoons. RECOMMEND take tour around the island to enjoy its beauty. Negatives- this trip, our second, we found the island becoming over developed with prices that are out of sight. Good web sites- .www.boraboraisland.com/www.gototahiti.com/islands/borabora/borabora.asp; www.tahiti-explorer.com/

 

Day Ten- Moorea

 

Since we had already been to Moorea for two days, we relaxed, having lunch on the open deck and later with drinks on board the ship anchored in a beautiful lagoon, and absorbed the beautiful scenery- what a way to end an outstanding cruise!!!

 

When we were on the island of Moorea we rented a car (4 door Ford Fiesta manual with AC which was quoted as a mid size car Cost for two days $399 Cnd (exorbitant but we shared with friends) and did the following touring:

 

Drove the coastal road westerly seeing the following:

 

Maharepa . is a village just to east hotel with a little strip shopping center where you can find everything from the post office (for stamps and phone cards), souvenirs, food and postcards to magazines, gift shop

 

CooksBay- picturesque views of the bay- stopped off at the several beach locations. At the foot of the Cooks Bay a side road turns to the left, next to the abandoned Cooks Bay Hotel, visited a busy parking lot with stalls set up on the day of arrival of the various cruise liners (This is where the Tahitian Princess tender will drop you). At the end of the bay is one of the two access roads to the Belvedere – a spectacular view point. This road is unpaved and quite bumpy but quite a sight to see through the pineapple coves and tropical forest.

 

The Poterie de l’Aquarium (Pottery shop) offers handmade pottery with a Tahitian flair along with a great view of the bay from the gardens.

 

OpunobuBay- another picturesque bay. Had difficulty in locating Jardin Kellum (on east side of Bay almost at the southerly end) and when did was not open. Robinson Cove- name given to the southerly end of the bay. Opunobu Bay is reportedly the backdrop for movies like “Mutiny on the Bounty”, “Love Affair” with Warren Beatty (during the visit to the Aunt played by Katharine Hepburn) or the recent remake of “South Pacific” .

 

 

South west side of the island has a much more beautiful sea view and beach areas, especially around the Moorea Village Hotel (looked tired, public washrooms not clean) and TikiVillage (www.tikivillage.pf.). Stopped off at the Tiki Village for a tour which was still running despite a ravaging fire that destroyed the living Polynesian village. Took us out on an out rigger canoe a short distance off shore to presentation of black pearl farming, and then back to a further demonstration in front of their black pearl store. Short introductory Tahitian Show to their main show in the evening

 

More info on Moorea- www.gomoorea.com; www.tahiti-explorer.com/ - check out the comments in the chat room; www.gototahiti.com/islands/moorea/moorea.asp. We wholeheartedly agree with the following: www.mooreaisland.com "Upon arrival to MooreaIsland (pronounced MOE-oh-ray-ah) in the heart of French Polynesia, you will immediately be awestruck by it's natural beauty... Its jagged peaks, cloaked by lush greenery and encircled by the deep blue of the ocean and sky. Located a mere 12 miles (19 kilometers) west of the island of Tahiti, Moorea is a triangular shaped island encircled by a lagoon of translucent green, fringed by an azure blue Polynesian sea. On a hilltop lookout high up in the interior mountains, between shark toothed Mount Rotui and towering Mount Tohivea, there is an outstanding view … On one side lies the beautiful Cook's Bay, and the other a deep and equally entrancing Opunohu Bay".

 

CONCLUSIONS- Negatives- Moorea accommodations rated as moderate, unfortunately are not up to North American standards and are charging upper end North American prices. Higher end hotel accommodations are equivalent to good North American resort hotels. Meals in restaurants- excellent food but at times expensive. Positive- very scenic volcanic island, and nice people. Beaches and lagoons are very good (i.e. Cooks Bay and Opunohu Bay) but not as spectacular as other French Polynesian islands and ocean at several of the resorts is not as clear as other islands (i.e. Bora Bora). If you have to lay over in Papeete for more than two days, then do it in Moorea, a short ferry ride away. Definitely take a tour around the island, stopping off at the many scenic locations and beaches

[DGF]

Conclusions Star Princess (Note- ship was full)

 

Boarding Excellent. No line ups

 

Disembarkation Directions were to await on Deck 7, but deck does not have sufficient public areas resulting in persons standing and sitting on the floor. We avoided by waiting in the public area on deck 14. We had arranged early departure and were given red # 3 baggage tags. Was a smooth procedure where processed thru Princess exit machine using card, followed by swift processing thru immigration, and then directed to waiting bags. NOTE: They never checked our departure baggage tags to insure we were getting off the ship when we should be; and all bags appeared to be on dock

 

 

Cabin Good decision to upgrade to a mini suite for a cruise of this length = gave us more room and really enjoyed the bath tub.

 

Veranda- has two small plastic chairs and table large enough for breakfast; plus two cushion chairs (small lounge chairs). No privacy since the verandas are stepped with Dolphin Deck being the bottom. Also noisy = can hear conversations of guests above

 

Sitting area- comfortable two seat sofa and one chair with coffee table large enough for breakfast. Has its own TV and HVAC thermostat. Sliding patio doors onto veranda

 

Sleeping area- twin bed configuration made into queen. Comfortable. Desk with chair, mirror, hair dryer, telephone and two electrical outlets = which was an excellent work station for Dean. Area had a separate HVAC thermostat. Would keep the room temperature at 70 F. Has a second TV

 

Closet next to Bathroom- ample hanging and cupboard space

 

Bathroom- good size, large combo tub/ shower which we both enjoyed. Good size counter for personal effects

 

Location- Cabin on starboard side generally put us on the dock side for each port. However, since we were cruising westward, we did not get the sun we would have on the Port side = if ever cruise again for a long period of time over the Atlantic or Pacific consider the location of the sun and pick the sunny side of the ship

 

Noise- No noise from adjacent cabins or hall. However, in rough seas there was substantially noise and some vibration, likely from the stabilizer system which kept us awake one night = need to collect further information

 

Cabin Stewart- Angelo- excellent

 

Tours Had the following problems

· buses- on the whole had uncomfortable seating and no leg room

· Rome and Seville were 1.75 bus ride away = shortened up the time for touring

· Ratio of one tour guide for every 40-45 on the tour = too large

· Insufficient time allocated to stops = were too rushed

· Were assembled in Princess Theatre rather than go ashore to meet tour bus (except for one port) = would lose 15 minutes

 

Conclusion- one day stops do not do the cities justice = not the way to visit a city that you will not be backed to (i.e. George's experience on St. Petersburg where had 3 days and still found it rushed)

- try to do on own unless can determine that Princess has allowed adequate time for each visit (i.e. night in Venice)

 

Ship Décor/ finishes- Very pleasing, well done

Feel- have created many areas where one can comfortably get away from the "crowd" = well done

Flow- worked well, except for deck 5

Elevators- did not work well = slow doors, noticeable waiting times, noticeable multiple stops with phantom passengers (would stop for passengers and no one waiting = persons had given up and walked)

Activities- Size of ship permitted a multiple of entertainment options, with some nights having two featured entertainers = great for a voyage at sea such as a transatlantic crossing. Must arrive at main events at least 15 minutes early for the first shows or may not be seated

Line ups- into dining areas initially/ first two days were noticeable, but then disappeared

- for tours noticeable, sometimes line ups were an annoyance

- from time to time at Purser's desk

- Always at Future Cruise desk (used a number system to overcome)

-

Dining Quality of food and service was not up to Tahitian Princess standard, ranging from poor to excellent but on the average good (We had some major problems in the Portofino Dining Room = slow service, some meals not that good. Lucked out by one night sitting at table # 6 in the Capri dining Room and thereafter booked this table each night = excellent service and no further problems with food. Jun, the waiter, allowed us to put extra plates in the middle of the table to be shared by all = his efforts and his assistant waiter resulted in a memorable dining experience.

 

On the average, Pastries lacked quality.

 

Special restaurants- interesting diversion but other than consistent professional service, may not worth the extra charge.

 

Sabatini- Service excellent. Maitre d' should be replaced (Dean had a problem with a tasteless main course of prawns. Drew to second in command, who said would mention to Chef, and five minutes later was backed at the table asking how meal was = shallow person going thru the motion). Gayle's meal was excellent

 

Tequila- service and meal excellent; with three piece band providing background music and dancing a touch of class = a memorable evening. We had to leave for a show and as a result unable to stay for the dancing; but returned several times to a few extra tables not being used for dining to have drinks = great location and band to relax, have a drink, and dance

 

Fixed vs. Open- when traveling on our own definitely arrange for fixed seating- we missed the experience of dining with the same group every night, comparing our notes, arranging excursions together; and getting to know the staff/ having the staff provide us with personal service based on our needs. Started to get tired of meeting new people every night and forced small talk. Whether want early or late seating should be determined by the itinerary and ships departure (on this itinerary early seating would be the best. Where chose late seating for days when would not work, could switch to open seating). The risk of fixed seating is that you might be assigned a table with an incompatible group. Another option when you are cruising with others is to make reservations every day on open system which we did in latter part of the cruise to get the same waiter.

 

Horizon Court- on the average food did not meet our expectations (bacon, greasy sausages, week ice tea, tasteless pastry). Policy of closing one of the buffet service areas leads to congestion/ crowding. At time found the layout of the food in strange order, requiring breaking in and out of the line up. Could make special order for an omelet

 

Portofino Dining Room- initially our regular dining room, trying to sit at a table of four or six rather than the table of 8 where found it difficult to communicate with all eight persons. Service varied depending upon the section of the dining room in which you were seated. (one lunch in Portofino took 1.5 hrs to get main course- one of the couples left; several dinners service was slow meal taking two hours) Note: reportedly same kitchen is serving the Portofino and Amalfi Dining rooms and this could be the cause of the slow service vs. Capri which has its own kitchen.

 

Capri Dining Room- We had two good dining experiences and settled in with table # 6, Capri Dining Room serviced by Jun………….. (excellent) sitting with Fred & Shirley Guiraud (3855 Newport Lane, Boulder, Colorado, USA 80304-1048. ( 303-447-2175 e-mail guirauds@comcast.net) for the last four nights. Reservation possible- We had to phone each day to book the table at a specific time= unnecessary nuisance, but gave you all the benefits of fixed seating and a more flexible time tailored to your preferences.

 

3:30 PM tea- a touch of class; all waiters in tuxedos with service in white glove. Excellent Service. From time to time some of the small sandwiches dry, on average food very good.

 

Entertainment Size of ship allows you, on several nights, to see two different shows. Quality of entertainment is equal to Las Vegas= was the best we have experienced on a cruise ship (other than for the excellent specialized entertainment provided by the locals at each ports on the Tahitian Princess). Princess Theatre has good site lines; theatre level stage props (props, entertainers can entry and exit thru floor elevators). Some of the seats uncomfortable in that all seats are the same configuration, not taking into consideration the slope of the floor underneath = results in one sliding forwarding on the seat.

 

Internet At a cost of $10.50 for 30 minutes can hook up laptop (wireless) to ships system only in one location- Atrium. Very slow connection (lower end of telephone speed) and not a user friendly connection system- could only purchase in 30 minute increments, when came to end of 30 minutes and tried to send an e-mail lost the e-mail, does not appear to sign off until you shut down the computer, when you run out of 30 minutes, you have to close out explorer and sign on again. Spent $........ = not good value

 

Sea sickness Except for one stormy day, Gayle had no problem. Dean's problems overcome by taking Dramamine; which had to take on some days when relatively calm seas = long open seas cruise trips may not be best vacation for Dean.

 

Tour desk Kimberly from Grimsby thought it was appropriate to handle the passengers waiting to see her by using a numbered system; which was not of interest to Dean; rather than to expand her hours/ have an additional crew member assist. Eventually caught her free 10 minutes before 6:00 PM one day. While talking to me at 6:00 PM put her closed sign out. Poor listener, not the typical enthusiastic person doing this job.

 

TV programs Info on ship, cruise channel- would have been more helpful if a fixed bar at bottom with temperature, weather and a weather forecast

 

Bottle Water Charge $2.95/. Overcame by purchasing a six pak for €6.00 ashore at one of ports and bringing aboard

Pop Charge $1.50/ can. Also could have done the same thing

 

Accounting In future put dates on the chits, get bills for everything, and keep by dates = be more careful

 

Fitness Promenade deck- excellent for walking in quiet sea; on deck 7 & 8, with stairs up to deck 8 at the bow- 5 times around reportedly mile

Gym- Good. 15 tread mills, all on 30 minute reservation periods, basically same equipment as Bayview but more. Good weight equipment. Exercise room next door with mats

 

GENERAL Tahitian Princess Cruise was a memorable cruise vs. Star Princess good cruise with some noticeable problems = Star Princess Great Ship with management problems. This ship is capable of moving from a Berlitz Cruise Guide rating of four stars to five stars, joining Celebrity as the only large cruise ships receiving this rating

 

We had been booked on a following cruise on the Star Princess in March, 05. Based on this cruise experience cancelled, principally deciding to experience a different ship in the future (different from our decision on the Tahitian Princess where hope to return)

[DGF]

Comments on Island Princess

 

OVERALL Not up to the same standards as the Tahitian Princess and Star Princess; but still an enjoyable cruise. Everyone was pleasant, but staff in many cases not too informed. Dining- Maitre d' Hotel and assistants - were not as helpful and sincere as we have experienced in the past on Princess. Refused our waiters request to save a table for us for the last night so we could enjoy our last dinner with them. Use of Beepers to handle the back up in the Dining Room provides a convenience but does not befit a first class dining experience. Shows- Other than one show (guitar player who we saw on the Star Princess), on average were not good. Line ups at disembarkations in port caused by poor planning/ organization (easily overcome with two lines for security)

 

Embarkation NOTE: Are requested to embark 1 hr prior to ship departure. Reason for this is that more time is spent on embarkation caused by US immigration and customs. We had planned to board the ship and then return to dock for a meeting in the hotel. Were advised not to do so due to immigration procedures and went to meeting first

 

Since we boarded at last minute was no line up. When we got on board, several pieces of our luggage already in the Cabin

 

Disembarkation Procedure- Same procedure as before. Several nights before are given disembarkation request form to fill out and leave at Purser's desk (They called it Information Desk on this ship). Day prior to disembarkation are given coloured luggage tags, the colour determining when you disembark. One tears off the end of the luggage tag to be used for disembarkation= when your colour is called you go to the gang plank and show your coloured tag

 

Reality- In order to get off the ship early/ have early disembarkation luggage tags, have to provide justification- i.e. flight departure which requires early disembarkation. On the day of disembarkation, after the first two groups were called, there was no checking = you just got off with the group then departing. We noticed that when one passenger said she had left her luggage tag behind was told okay. Luggage ise grouped in terminal by colour but no restrictions on getting to your luggage

 

As in the past waited in one of the dining areas, rather than standing around at gang plank.

 

Customs- none, since US Immigration and customs screened you prior to embarkation= reason for the recommended one hr prior embarkation

 

Cabin A326 Noise- no horizontal noise, but from time to time heard people on deck above when kids (?) running

 

Movement- noticed considerable difference between decks on movement of ship. Better deck would be Dolphin mid ship. Only time DF took medication was between Vancouver Island and start of Alaska inside passage. Otherwise very smooth trip

 

Layout- Other than the shower, which was ridiculously small, worked very well.

 

Balcony- two high back plastic chairs with plastic table large enough to have meals on. If wanted to have breakfast in room, would have to bring in the plastic table from balcony. Very small circular glass table in sleeping room not large enough.

 

Sleeping- comfortable twin beds (34" wide) pushed together making a queen.

 

Vanity- Vanity with mirror and chair.

 

Fridge- Small, but took the six small water bottles, plus two bottles of wine, with room for ice bucket. Could have taken a another bottle

 

Entertain- TV with remote.

Ment

 

Seating One chair for vanity plus a second chair, both of which were not too comfortable = okay for 7 day trip but not for a long trip

 

Clothes More than ample space to hang up clothes

 

Bathroom Shower stall-very very tight. Fixed shower head rather than moveable head as we found on other cruise ships.

 

Balance of washroom tight but worked well- Adequate size counter space, shelf underneath for personal items

 

Lighting Lamps on either side of bed

Two recessed pots above vanity

Overall- lighting more than adequate

 

Overhang Deck above the balcony extends out another 6-8 ft. Disadvantage- Results in limited restriction of view of mountains = from time to time had to sit down to see top of mountain peaks. Advantage- privacy from above. We looked down on the balconies below us with one exception where did not see balcony furniture= deeper balconies which would provide some privacy

 

Location Is a definite advantage of having cabin on the starboard side for northbound and port side for southbound = get the better views, with the exception of Glacier Bay where our cruise followed along the westerly side of the Bay. However, if unable to get, would not forgo a cruise of preference. NOTE- when viewing the glaciers we never stayed in the cabin, but were on the bow of the ship, Gayle with our friends one deck above and Dean standing on tables in corner looking out over the plastic wind shield

 

Cabin Steward Good service but have had better

 

Dining Room Horizon Good layout with plenty of glass for views. Substantial movement in rough seas. Food adequate. Pleasant staff

 

Bordeaux Dining room we used- open seating. Very low ceiling, Adequate but not as spectacular as other ship's dining rooms.

 

Meals- Saturday- Shrimp cocktail- tasty/ adequate. Soup- mushroom- good. Fish dinner not too appetizing- poor. Desserts good. Waiter not helpful on selection of meal. With new waiters, overcame the problem

 

Future- Arrange for fixed seating table of six next to window.

 

Waiters- Ovidici Maximenceo & Assistant Waiter- Constantin Dragan, both from Bucharest, Romania. Provided excellent service. Would screen the food for us (made recommendations each night) and where we liked more than one selection would put in middle of the table. With desserts they got carried away from time to time serving several

 

Maitre d' Hotel and assistants- a disappointment and not up to the standards of other cruise ships- see previous comments.

 

Tipping- FUTURE- On previous cruises, we discovered Princess allows you to make arrangements to have tips taken off your bill and you can then hand out to those who provided you excellent service (Do so thru the Purser's desk). This makes a big difference to staff, since they still share in the pool and get the extra benefit of getting extra tips from you (i.e.- for this cruise would have allowed more money going directly to our waiters)

 

If we knew then what we know now and could arrange- Would take Holland American over the Princess Cruise ships (same itinerary) for the following reasons:

 

1. Whittier port used by Princess is no comparison to Seward port used by Holland American

2. Whittier port has only one car rental whose prices are excessive. Seward- Other forms of transportation more plentiful and likely cheaper to Anchorage

3. Cabin size- larger than Princess and washrooms have tubs (we talked with other Holland American guests at some of the events we attended in Anchorage and confirmed the bath tubs (nice to soak in tub after long day). Holland American has fixed seating and may be more structured

[msiowa]

I've done 3 Princess (Grand, Dawn, and Caribbean) and two on Celebrity (Constellation and Summit) and while I think the 2 lines are fairly comparable but generally prefer Celebrity, I would never take another cruise on the Caribbean Princess, even if they paid me.

 

We were on the CP in January 2005 and it was awful. When they added a deck of staterooms to the Grand-class ships without adding any public space, I knew it would be an issue but it was FAR worse than I expected. The crew was overwhelmed. Too many passengers to get anything but the most rudimentary service. Anytime dining (which I had loved before - we made a standing reservation at the same table at 7 or 7:30 - perfect for us!) was a choice between 6:30 or 8:30 or come and stand in line and see what you get.

 

Don't even try to get a deck chair unless you're willing to be a chair hog and scatter your possessions at 7am. (I'm an early riser and am generally by the pool by 8:30 and I had a hard time finding a place to sit!)

 

I think there are other Princess ships you'll be happy to sail, but stay away from the CP!!!

 

Happy sailing!

Joanie

[Jimsgirl]

Just back from "Sun " Princess

Found cabins smaller than on Celebrity, Food very similar (traditional dining), Princess does have a separate dining room for those who wish to "dine anytime" which Celebrity does not

Shows were very good on Princes but they do not have a movie theatre which Celebrity has (on M class anyway). Solo acts on the "Sun" were very poor, with the exception of the classical pianist.

Patisserie on "SUN" was very poor compared to Cova Cafe, service very slow and the food unappetising.

Library on the "Sun" was a disgrace, no librarian , VERY FEW OLD books, no books at all in the paper back exchange on day two of cruise. ,just a couple of chairs, very dismal indeed.

Ice cream only available for a few hours and you had to pay for it.

Pizza parlour, inattentive staff, pizza fresh cooked but only very thin crust burned at edges.

Breakfast staff were inattentive, (with exception of two days when I got a female named Gabriella who was very good) tables lacked various items, (teaspoons, salt and pepper, butter , milk etc) only offered Eggs Benidict on 2 days.

 

The one thing that Princess does have however is early announcements of future cruises, and far more choice of places , with cruises up to 31 days in some cases. Also the future cruise certificates can be obtained without having to choose a date and cruise and LAST FOR 4 YEARS. This is a big plus over Celebrity.

 

I love Celebrity, am an Elite class member but oh I do wish they would get their act together anounce their future cruises earlier and PLEASE PLEASE give us more choices, and number of days.

[Arubalisa]

Rick...I did this very same thing last year, in fact last March. Somewhere on the boards is my report. In a nutshell Princess won the day for activities, rooms were a slight plus to Princess...service and food were Xs. I enjoyed the experience on the Carib Princess, altho I was told by the diehard Princess folks that the Carib Princess doesn't really reflect the true Princess experience.

Wholeheardtly agree with each and every one of these comments. Princess was better or the same in all categories except for food and service. Celebrity by far offered the best service out of 7 lines which I have cruised on.

[bassque]

We have been loyal RCCL and X cruisers for 30 years straying only once to HAL to Alaska 1 1/2 yeas ago (Great service and room, very ordinary food)

We have two cruises booked for the same time next spring to Hawaii from the West Coast. One on X and the other on Princess.

We booked our X cruise while on board the Century in March--before our safe was burglarized--and we booked the Princess cruise after we received such horrible response from X to the burglary. (We're keeping the X booking for a while just in case we get an "I'm sorry" or something like it from X rather than what we've received--which is X calling us a liar in so many words.

Anyway, the Princess ship is the Island Princess, it's a 15 night cruise and includes Kawai (spelling) which X has recently dropped, evidently. The X cruise is 14 nights. The IP sails with 1,900 passengers--just about right for us--and about the same as Century and Galaxy and the mini-suites get rave reviews on the boards. We had a sky suite on Century and it will be interesting to compare if we choose Princess. In checking all the boards, it appears X is still tops in service with an edge in food, however they obviously have no loyalty to long-time customers and so why should we have exclusive loyalty to them??

[Arubalisa]

Anyway, the Princess ship is the Island Princess, it's a 15 night cruise and includes Kawai (spelling) which X has recently dropped, evidently. The X cruise is 14 nights. The IP sails with 1,900 passengers--just about right for us--and about the same as Century and Galaxy and the mini-suites get rave reviews on the boards. We had a sky suite on Century and it will be interesting to compare if we choose Princess.

I do not know exactly how the mini-suites on the IP are compared to those on their bigger ships like the Golden or Grand P. But, with that being said, the mini-suite on the Golden beat our Sky Suite on the Galaxy BY FAR.