Sapphire vs Caribbean Princess for Alaska?

[Phanatic08]

Read through several reviews on each without a strong indication for either

Thoughts on a choice?

[capriccio]

We've been on both ships for multiple cruises.  Without a doubt, I would pick the Sapphire Princess.  It is smaller (500 fewer passengers) than the Caribbean Princess and, important for cool climates, has an indoor pool that includes a covered seating area above it.

[reedprincess]

Sapphire.

For all the reasons above. 

[westcoaster]

In addition to having fewer passengers and the covered pool, the Sapphire also has a wider Promenade deck than the Caribbean, which allows for full loungers.

[Coral]

Sapphire. No competition.

[fpsphil]

Sapphire also feels just better up kept than the Caribbean. Plus all the reasons above 

[msmoger]

Also suggest the Sapphire. We recently returned from a 16 night SA/Antarctica cruise with lots of scenic cruising.  Besides for all the reasons already mentioned, there is lots go great outdoor viewing.  The Caribbean isn't a bad option either, but having sailed both I think there are more options on the Sapphire.  Above the bridge is especially "user friendly" compared to other ships.  It is very easily accessible from deck 15.  There's no need to search for the "secret door" like on some of the other ships.  Also, the aft viewing is nicely tiered and provides many great sight lines.

[john watson]

Sapphire was built with Alaskan sailing in mind having wider promenade decks so full length loungers could be used.  The entire ship is wider than Grand class ships. Sapphire and Diamond were both built for this type of cruise.  Caribbean Princess was built for warmer climate cruises in my opinion.

 

Regards John