Island Princess 19 d. Panama canal review

[Tallcruiser]

Better late than never.

I started the

"Live from the Island Princess Panama April 21 to May 10th.

I have put together a long review of the ship, and the ports. I will post here in separate posts for those of you still interested!

So here go's

 

19 day Panama Canal R/T out of port of Los Angeles, CA. April 21st to May 10 aboard the “Panamax” Island Princess.

Itinerary ports of call:

Cabo San Lucus,Mexico

Acapulco, Mex.

Huatulco, Mex.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Panama Canal, Panama

Puerto Amador, Panama

Puerto Corinto, Nicaragua

Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

Zihuatanejo/ Ixtapa, Mex.

Puerto Vallarta, Mex.

 

Cabin description:

Cabin Carib. 706 Port side Aft. Mini suite. Sleeps 3 if Roll out couch bed is used. Has 2 TV’s, mini bar, Fridge, sitting area. Plenty of closet space. Personal safe in closed closet for personal items. Operated with 4 digit code key pad. Good size bathroom. Plenty of storage for personal items. Large, deep long soaking bath tub. (bring your bubble bath). :D Nice Lotus Spa amenities. In small bottles, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion. Shelves in the tub shower combo. The shower head is stationary. It has an adjustable spray shower head. Excellent water pressure and temperature. It was my private sanctuary. Very nice after a hot day. Ahhh!;)

 

Extended balcony ½ covered. Good sized. I think we actually had a dozen people out there at one time, once! 2 Lg. adjustable back lounge chairs. 2 reg. patio chairs and a table I enjoyed my breakfast at EVERY morning! Full suit on one side and mini on the other. Looking down you could see Ocean not someone’s balcony.

 

Embarkation: I arrived about 11:15 AM by 11:45. I was in my cabin. It was swift!. Lunch was served both in the Horizon court and if you got on board before 1pm you could dine in the dinning room and be served from the menu. Not to many people know about this. The dinning room was NOT crowded and the salmon was good. Way to start a cruise!

 

Let’s get the not so fun stuff out of the way now. Disembarkation. Never fun. But it went as well as could be expected. I was holding on with tooth and nail I did not want to leave! Anyway, this time it was done by “Silent” debarkation. We were issued luggage tags that reflected a color and number that indicated where you were to meet and what time to be there. Then and only there you would be notified you were cleared to leave the ship. At that point your designated color group was escorted to the gang way when it was your turn. If you chose to be some where else you would have no way of knowing it was your turn. No announcement were made or the PA system. It was slow as usual but orderly. We were out of our cabins by 7-8 AM and everyone was off the ship by 9:30 AM. “Self help walk off” is available at 7:30 AM for those who do not need any assistance and can carry all of their luggage off on their own. ( Yea, right like that is going to happen on a 19 day cruise) Also the median age on board was 72!

 

Service on the ship was Very good/ excellent, in all venues.

Our CD was Kelvin Joy. He was excellent!!! He was covering for the regular CD Susan, who was away on vacation. I think we scored. Kelvin was fully involved and everywhere! Very visible. I have been on cruises where I thought the assistant was the CD because the CD delegated all their work off to others . NOT SO with Kelvin. He was funny personable and at every event. I don’t know when he slept. He started the day at 6AM with “The Morning Show” broadcast. Very entertaining. Into late in the evening popping into every venue. Well done Kelvin Joy. I think he is now sailing on a ship in the Caribbean.

His assistant, Marahscalh Stanton was entertaining and talented. The whole CD staff was very good.

 

to be continued....

 

Next the Ports of call on our destinations.

 

Robin

[Colo Cruiser]

Thanks for taking the time to write a review. :)

[Tallcruiser]

I chose Personal choice anytime dinning. I prefer it for the convenience. I don’t like to be locked into a set time to eat. Often you will either miss your dinner time or have to rush to make it if you have been out on an excursion. With personal choice any time dinning I never have to wait in line either. The Bordeaux dinning room is Identical to the Provence set seating dinning room. The floor plan is the same as is the menus. You will never have to wait with PC dinning if you call ahead and make reservation up to 3 nights in a row. You may chose your server and a table you prefer in their section. You may wait a short time if you chose without reservations popular dinning time. It won’t be very long. You wait at home for your seat at most restaurants if you don’t take the time to make reservations!!

Or you may eat at the Horizon Court Buffet, Terrace Grill, Princess Pizzaria, and 24 hour room service. For a fee there is the Ultimate balcony dinning. ( I hear it is well worth it!) Sabatini’s, Bayou Café and Sundaes Ice Cream Parlor. ( free ice cream and trimming are offered daily in the Horizon court).

 

Over all I would say the food was good. Not great. But good. Having said that I sure did not starve! ;) I cruised about 5 times in the last year on different cruise lines. I found all of them have slipped in quality to good., IMHO. Every cruise line is cutting corners to increase profit margins; Princess is no exception. Noted were the skimpy lower quality lobster tail dinners. Gone are the days of the large, tender, moist lobsters served always with drawn butter. Now they are small, rubbery and served with shrimp or scallops and a butter “sauce” on the plate. Long gone also is a good free cup of coffee. I used to defend the syrup based mass produced coffee. It was so- so but do able. Not anymore. This trip I had a daily chance to sample the coffee in my morning room service for 19 days! It was awful! Never consistent. I think they mixed it blind folded without measuring. I paid for a good cup of brewed coffee down at La Patisserie. That reminds me…. Soda cards are offered as well as coffee cards and Ice Cream cards. Next long cruise I will consider taking a small coffee maker. I am not complaining, just noting the changes.

 

You are not to carry any liquor on board. A menu of wines and 375ML. Bottles of hard liquor are offered for sale through room service for use in your cabin. The prices are inflated but I did take advantage of this feature. I was able to stock up for the party in my cabin and I enjoyed having a cocktail on my balcony on occasion. With charges and limits on luggage imposed by the airlines this may become more preferential. You can bring on 1 bottle of wine at the port per person with out it being confiscated. More tips and tricks here if you are interested... ask me.

 

There were always things to do on board. The Patter was full of activities. Pool games, table tennis, card games, put - put golf as well as a golf simulator. There were ceramics @ sea, dance lessons, shuffle board, duty free shopping on board. There were lectures, classes, Scholarship @ Sea, demonstrations, arts and crafts, Trivia in the Wheelhouse lounge. Library offered daily brain teasers, needle point for a fee, books for check out. You could enjoy the Lotus Spa, sanctuary, workout room, classes in exercise to nutrition. Spa services.

There were meetings for clubs and groups: Friends of Dorothy, Dr. Bob and Bill W. Cruise Critics and tea every day with occasional teas for the Red Hat society ladies. ( Don’t forget to pack your hats!)

 

The Entertainment staff and productions were Great!! The stage productions were the best I have seen at sea. Comedy shows, Magicians, Karaoke, and game shows. The musicians on board were good. There was something for everyone. True 2 Life were my favorite band. They offered the best Variety and could play any request. They really tried to play what we wanted to hear and came out and mingled with us. Also a favorite was the piano player Ray Cussins in the Crooners bar. Well done!

You would have to work hard at being board on this cruise.

On the other hand if it is solitude you are looking for…..the Island Princess never felt crowded. She has the largest public rooms and areas of any of the ships I have been on. Plenty of nooks and decks to escape to. The back of the ship offers several decks with lounges that are secluded and accessible through the cabin hall ways all the way aft. Great spots for quite sail aways.

 

Another tip is buy your floral arrangements after you board. I ordered on before embarkation. I also ordered an arrangement 10 days later on board. The arrangement I ordered on board was lower in price and more beautiful than the pre ordered arrangement. Very nice touch to a cabin and worth the expense to me.:)

 

Ok, Ok now on to the PORTS!;)

 

 

 

[dforeigner]

Thank you for taking time to write a review.

[Tallcruiser]

Thanks Colo Cruiser and dforeigner,

I really enjoy reliving and sharing my experience. Thanks for reading it.;)

 

Ports of call!

First let me say that every port most every vendor and taxi spoke adequate English. Every destination accepted the US $$. I would recommend that you carry small bills in separate packets on your person. It is easier to use small bills while shopping or just getting a beer. Often you will not get your change back in US currency. You could be shorted given the exchange rate if you end up with pesos in change. Having said that…. Carry your larger bills in a money belt. Keep wallets in front pockets and purses strapped across your chests shoulder to opposite side. I actually had some small children surround me and pat my pockets down in Nicaragua. :eek: Don’t reveal how much money you are carrying. You will have more bargaining power. When making large purchases, most places accepted major credit cards and travelers checks.

Never pay the asking price!! Bartering is expected! Most vendors inflate their asking price by 40% to 50%. Be polite. If you are not interested just firmly say No Thank You! Remember they sized you up before you saw them and they do this all day long every day. Set your price and be firm. They already know you are going to say you don’t have enough money LOL. :p

Also be careful of the bait and switch. A vendor will see you like something and say it’s (for example) $5.00. You say OK and hold out the $5 -they grab it and hand you an item that is poor quality, not the item you were shown. Now they have your $5 and you have NOTHING! Always get the item in your hand before you hand over any money!

Do not wear your valuables, jewelry, watches or designer purses off the ship!!!! If you do you are wearing a neon sign saying TARGET! “I have money”! It is dangerous for your personal safety and you will lose your bargaining power. Lock the good stuff up in your cabin safe or get a safe deposit box at the Pursers desk. Don’t dress to impress while in port. Dress to blend in. You are visiting 3rd world countries. Be polite and learn a few words in Spanish. Please and thank you go a long way. Show respect in other countries. Don’t wear shorts into their Churches and Cathedrals!

Hope you are listening!!!

First Port of Call

Day 3 April 23rd Cabo San Lucas, Mex.

The seas have been smooth to flat! It is now hot and sunny. The ocean is clear clean and cool. We spotted dolphin and turtles along the way.

This is a tender port and we were only here noon to 7PM.

Once a quaint sport fishing village, now an International Resort. There are large hotels lining the beaches. There is a Costco and Wal-Mart visible from the ship. In town there are shops and bars galore. I have been here many times. So I took a tender in and just walked along the harbor shops and stopped in a bar for a cold cervesa. It was very Hot. The vendors by the harbor sell mostly T-shirts, silver jewelry, leather and some pottery items. A lot of the same ol’ same ol’. Look out for the fake mexican silver!

The ship offers many excursions from snorkeling to 4 wheeling. A Cruise Critic friend of mine took the Sport fishing excursions and came back with a Marlin!!! Also caught by the other men were Yellow Tail. They donated them to the church in town to cook and eat.

The views from the ship were spectacular. Los Arcos is so beautiful. There were boats filled with tourists being dropped off on lovers beach. There were the Jet skis buzzing the ship and Parachutes sailings filling the sky with vibrant colors. It was a good day.

Before bed that night we set our clocks ahead 1 hour. I think we set our clocks ahead and back at least 4 times on this cruise. We were not always on the same time as the destination on land. So take a watch and keep it set to the ships time!! Every thing is done on Ships Time!

 

 

Day 5 Acapulco, Mexico Docked 8 AM - 5PM

The Seas are smooth, blue and clear. Hot and Humid.

Having been here 8 weeks before, I chose to go out on my own. I walked out onto the main street to the left to the Old Town. I don’t recommend going out alone on foot for a single woman. I did just fine and stayed to the main road but when I got past the tourist zone is were it got a little sketchy. I headed back. Still I took in some beautiful views and captured some real sights of Acapulco un-staged.

Last trip here I enjoyed touring the Fort, located directly across from the ship. There is an over pass to it from the ship. Great views from the top of the whole crescent bay of Acapulco. I shopped at the shops near the Cliff divers. I watched the evening show of the Cliff divers, as we were there last time into the night.. I snorkeled and hiked on La Roquetta Island. That is reach by water taxis from the ships dock. Acapulco is a very large bustling International Resort. It offers history, shopping, Hotels, beaches and entertainment. Many excursions are offered here.

A tip about the taxi drivers here. They swarm like crazy. They are very aggressive and gang up on you.. Beware, be firm and say no if you do not want their services or they will follow you down the street. The best prices are the taxis out side the fences on the street. Prices are very competitive. Don’t take the first bully.

It was a nice day and a pretty sail away.

 

Day 6 Huatulco, Mexico docked 7AM to 1PM

Hot- Hot- Hot! The seas are smooth and crystal clear blue green.

Only a short visit here. We are seeing sea life from the ship now.

We pulled into one of the bays of Huatulco pre-dawn. It is a relatively new port of call.. Sun rise over this little bay was so beautiful it was special. There is a pretty beach and restaurant at the end of the pier and shops around the marina. Huatulco is a Temperate terrain with 9 pristine coves,36 beaches spread out along the shoreline south of Oaxaca. Many accessible only by water. Huatulco was once the home of an ancient Zaptec Indian settlement.. Later became a primary pacific port during the 16th century. It then laid quietly in existence until the president of Mexico saw a potential for tourism and build to one day into a resort destination like Acapulco. Now in place are plans for engineered hotel resorts and planned communities. Knowing that, I am so glad I got to see it before it is spoiled!

I chose the Huatulco Sail and swim ships excursion . We boarded a 44ft. Sail boat in the marina. Our guide was very good. Well spoken and clear. He shared good information with humor. We sailed along and viewed 5 of the coves . We pulled into the last one and dropped anchor about 15 feet from a pristine beach only accessible by boat. We were able to jump into the pure clear water. I was able to dive and open my eyes in the briny water without a mask. The water was warm and buoyant. It was hard to keep from floating. The sand on the beach was clean. You could smell the clean air off the ocean mixed with the scent of the chaparral and beach plants. We were the only people there. It was breath taking. I did not want to leave the water. Too soon it was time to sail back to the ship with the wind in our sails. Paradise!:D

I would have given up time in Acapulco or Puerto Vallarta to have stayed here longer. I hope to return again before it is spoiled. It reminded some of the OLD days when I was a girl we would drive the dirt roads to Ensenada and camp on the sand dunes on the shore. Long before paved roads and civilization. It smelled the same and the waters to me back to that memory. ( deep sigh)

By 1 PM we sailed from this beautiful place.

 

Well, I think I will work on this some more tomorrow. I hope you are still here to read more. If you have questions I will try to answer them.

So 'till tomorrow........;)

[mississauga]

Thanks for taking the time out to write this review. It is very interesting and I can't wait for you to write the rest of it. Thank you!

[Mr Vincent]

Thank you very much for the great review. Your writeup is very detailed.

 

I have already learned much from what you wrote.

 

We are going on the IP in a few months and this will be my first use of Anytime Dining.

 

Soda cards, Ice Cream cards, Coffee cards. My how times have changed. Thx for the tip, I will need to bring small coffee maker.

[Guest arowe6]

You can't stop now. I'm waiting to hear about the rest of the ports. :)

 

-Andrew

[VIVRN39]

Great reviews so far. Can't wait to hear the rest. We are sailing on the Island on 9/25.:p

[spingal]

Robin,

 

I have been anxiously awaiting your review and it was soooo worth the wait!!! :D :D

 

I can't wait to read the next installment!

 

THANKS for writing this review. I was supposed to be on this cruise but ended up doing the Hawaii 4/1 sailing on the Diamond. So it is interesting to read what I missed.

 

Thanks again! :D

[cage keeper]

Thanks for such a great review on the ship. We will be on next March. Can't wait to hear the rest of your review.:)

[Tallcruiser]

Thanks everyone. It is like telling people about your grandchildren.... LOL I could just go and on!;)

 

Day 8 April 28 Puntarenas, Costa Rica Docked 8 AM to 8 PM

The terrain has changed. In Mexico it is desert mixed with temperate and tropical. Central America is tropical rain forest. We are on the cusp of the dry to rainy season. It is Hot and Humid. The Rainy season begins in May to November. The ocean is smooth and clean.

Costa Rica is at the southern end of Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama. Costa Rica has 2 shores. The west is the Pacific Ocean and the Eastern shore is the Caribbean. Currency in Costa Rica is the Colon.

So… you come all this way….paid all the money to get here….GET OFF THE SHIP! Take an excursion! There is little to see in most ports along the Pacific side. There is the standard same ol’ same ol’ at the vendor stands by the ships dock. Some are industrial ports. You won’t get the full value and appreciation if you don’t get out there and explore!

Costa Rica is Tropical, mountainous and volcanic. The main exports are coffee, bananas and cacao. There are plantations of pineapple, apples, sugar cane, mangoes, papaya, and cashew nuts to name a few.

I chose the Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Resort Hot Springs ship excursion. Spectacular! We boarded a bus for a 3 ½ hour bus ride. The Bus had air conditioning and a bathroom on board. Our guide was very informative. Driver was skilled. The ride passed quickly. There was so much to see. We rode the Pan American Hwy. that was interesting in it’s self. I saw everything from large cargo shipping trucks to a rancher boy stopping traffic with his cattle crossing the road.

We were warned that many come to see The Arenal Volcano, but never get a glimpse as it is often covered in clouds. Well…..Let me tell you… We saw this magnificent Volcano from as much as an hour away in the distance. All eyes were focused from the bus as we didn’t know when it might disappear back into the clouds. No worries, it stayed clear and beautifully visible the entire day! How lucky were we?! We were surrounded in untouched rain forest. The air was clean and HOT, HOT and humid. On arrival at the Tabacon Resort, I could smell the lush greenery and flowers. I could hear the rushing of water over the rocks into the pools as well as birds and wild life. The Resort is at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. My eyes were filled with aw of this live Volcano. It was puffing out dust and sand into the air.

We enjoyed a day of swimming in the natural pools and falls heated by the Volcano. The resort actually pump cold water in some to cool them enough to enjoy. There are beautiful gardens, paths, pools and falls to enjoy. The Resort provides clean lockers, showers, dressing rooms and towels. We also enjoyed a delicious clean well presented buffet. Our stay was over all to soon. I watched the scenery as it flew by the window on the bus on the ride back. I could not take my eyes off the sights. Some people enjoyed a little nap. We were treated to a Costa Rica sun set for our sail away. I have to say Cost Rica is a favorite now of mine.

 

Day 10 April 30th Cruising the Panama Canal

The seas are still smooth.

There is a live Web Cam. That is focused on the canal friends and family can watch.

Multimedia - PanCanal.com

We were in line for the Mira Flores Locks before day break. In the dark blue of the early morning sky I could see The Bridge of the Americas and twinkling lights of morning activity. We crossed under the Bridge about 5:30 AM. Everyone was up and out on there balconies and decks. The air was vibrating with anticipation. Today would be the cherry on the sundae! It was another hot humid day. Yes even before daybreak! My personal hint is don’t just stay on your balcony while entering and passing through the locks. Get a perspective from all sides, ends and levels of the ship! Yep, you will get a work out! Entering the locks one of the best views were from deck 11 and 10 all the way forward. Some refer to these decks as the “Secret” observation decks. They were crowded. THE SECRETS OUT! You enter by way of the cabin hall way, all the way forward and through 2 doors. I think the doors do have a sign that says “Private” or “Crew only” something like that. Everyone ignores this. The deck is just below the Bridge and the view is excellent.

There are Photographers and web cams are situated all along the Mira Flores and San Miguel Locks. Another Web Cam. Picks up the ship at the Centennial Bridge. There was an opportunity for us to make signs the day before. Post your sign out for the crossing so they will be photographed!

The crossing is narrated over the PA system and picked up on the TV channel 40. Narration is not broadcast on your private balconies.

We passed through the 2 locks and under the Centennial Bridge, past all the new construction and widening project to Gatun Lake. It is an amazing journey. I have to admit that I got a lump in my throat and held back an emotional tear. I waited all my life to check this journey off my “bucket List”. I was really there in the moment. Holding on to capture it in my memory for all time.

We passed all manner of ships, from tankers including the the Crown Princess!! Lot's of waving whistling and yelling! Gatun Lake is just that…. A massive lake. The rain forest grow over and into the water. Many small islands dotted here and there. In the sunlight and heat of the day I could see crocodile, cranes and all kinds of creatures. The air was filled with the sound of birds and howler monkeys. With the Gatun Locks in sight and the Caribbean just the other side we turned around. We joined in the line to travel back through to the Pacific side crossing again through the San Miguel and Mira Flores Locks.

Late that afternoon our C C group gathered at my cabin. We had a little party sharing all kind of eats and drinks. I had ordered pizzas. You can call ahead to room service and order whole pizzas that are delivered to your cabin boxed just like a pizza parlor. There is a nominal fee of $3.00 each. They are small. I really enjoyed my new found friends. We had a really great group of Ccers!! Isn't this an amazing Web site. It has enriched my life so much!:D

We passed back through the locks late. It was 7:30 ish and getting dark. After dark we dropped anchor for the night outside of the canal and Puerto Amador. I was surprised to see it looking more like a camp ground or parking lot at a Truck Stop in the ocean. One giant tanker ship after the other all lined up and lit up, for the night waiting for day break and cross through the locks. Ships move South to North in the morning and North to south in the evening. I bet you thought it was East to West.....check your map it is North and South. :p It was a spectacle to see for sure!!

 

Puerto Amador is next!

[KathyJ]

We were on the Coral Princess when we met the Island Princess on Gatun lake. The Crown Princess is too big for the locks.

[Tallcruiser]

Opps! sorry I meant we passed the Coral princess our sister ship is also a Panamax ship the Crown would not fit!:p

I am typing to fast to try and get this all in here!

Sorry!;)

[spingal]

WOOHOO!! I love love love your review!! :D

[Bucky3]

Tallcruiser - We've been anxiously waiting for what I knew would be your super review of our wonderful PC cruise. Great job! Can't wait for more! We would take this cruise again in a heartbeat. We signed up but then changed the Tabacon excursion. Next time for sure! Sounds wonderful.

 

Bobbie

[macaroni]

In huatulco, did your excursion go thru several of the bays??? Also, we are thinking of doing the Volcano and Hot Springs in Puntarenas but were concerned about the long bus ride. I am prone to motion sickness. How are the roads? Was it crowded with alot of cruise people once you got there? We are doing a 10 day Acapulco to FLL next February.

[SkystheLimit]

Thank you for the review. The original Crown Princess was a Panamax ship. We did a partial transit on her several years ago. In December, we are on the Island for a much anticipated full transit of the canal. Appreciate your information and insight a great deal.

[yancycruiser]

Tallcruiser,

 

Thanks for taking the time to post an excellent review of the Island Princess. We are taking the IP to Alaska in about four weeks and have the same type suite as you do. Did you find there was enough drawer space?

 

Again, thanks.

 

Don

[spongerob]

I've loved reading your comments so far. We were also on the Coral, waving back at you guys and generally making a ruckus.

 

We didn't feel at all nervous in any of the ports, and took normal precautions. I agree that one shouldn't look too flashy and attract attention to oneself, but no matter what you do, you are going to stand out as a tourist.

 

Kelvin is great; he was our CD on Regal Princess a couple of years ago.

[mii]

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your review of the island going through the Panama Canal. We did the Coral repo in 2006 and stopping at the same spots. Fantastic cruise and plan to do it again next year. Again thanks for sharing.

 

Marilyn

[califgary]

thank you so much for this comprehensive review - we are doing this very cruise in September and your excellant writing has painted an awesome picture for us - Thank you so much!

[TexBear]

Thanks everyone. It is like telling people about your grandchildren.... LOL I could just go and on!;)

 

Day 8 April 28 Puntarenas, Costa Rica Docked 8 AM to 8 PM

The terrain has changed. In Mexico it is desert mixed with temperate and tropical. Central America is tropical rain forest. We are on the cusp of the dry to rainy season. It is Hot and Humid. The Rainy season begins in May to November. The ocean is smooth and clean.

Costa Rica is at the southern end of Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama. Costa Rica has 2 shores. The west is the Pacific Ocean and the Eastern shore is the Caribbean. Currency in Costa Rica is the Colon.

So… you come all this way….paid all the money to get here….GET OFF THE SHIP! Take an excursion! There is little to see in most ports along the Pacific side. There is the standard same ol’ same ol’ at the vendor stands by the ships dock. Some are industrial ports. You won’t get the full value and appreciation if you don’t get out there and explore!

Costa Rica is Tropical, mountainous and volcanic. The main exports are coffee, bananas and cacao. There are plantations of pineapple, apples, sugar cane, mangoes, papaya, and cashew nuts to name a few.

I chose the Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Resort Hot Springs ship excursion. Spectacular! We boarded a bus for a 3 ½ hour bus ride. The Bus had air conditioning and a bathroom on board. Our guide was very informative. Driver was skilled. The ride passed quickly. There was so much to see. We rode the Pan American Hwy. that was interesting in it’s self. I saw everything from large cargo shipping trucks to a rancher boy stopping traffic with his cattle crossing the road.

We were warned that many come to see The Arenal Volcano, but never get a glimpse as it is often covered in clouds. Well…..Let me tell you… We saw this magnificent Volcano from as much as an hour away in the distance. All eyes were focused from the bus as we didn’t know when it might disappear back into the clouds. No worries, it stayed clear and beautifully visible the entire day! How lucky were we?! We were surrounded in untouched rain forest. The air was clean and HOT, HOT and humid. On arrival at the Tabacon Resort, I could smell the lush greenery and flowers. I could hear the rushing of water over the rocks into the pools as well as birds and wild life. The Resort is at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. My eyes were filled with aw of this live Volcano. It was puffing out dust and sand into the air.

We enjoyed a day of swimming in the natural pools and falls heated by the Volcano. The resort actually pump cold water in some to cool them enough to enjoy. There are beautiful gardens, paths, pools and falls to enjoy. The Resort provides clean lockers, showers, dressing rooms and towels. We also enjoyed a delicious clean well presented buffet. Our stay was over all to soon. I watched the scenery as it flew by the window on the bus on the ride back. I could not take my eyes off the sights. Some people enjoyed a little nap. We were treated to a Costa Rica sun set for our sail away. I have to say Cost Rica is a favorite now of mine.

 

Day 10 April 30th Cruising the Panama Canal

The seas are still smooth.

There is a live Web Cam. That is focused on the canal friends and family can watch.

Multimedia - PanCanal.com

We were in line for the Mira Flores Locks before day break. In the dark blue of the early morning sky I could see The Bridge of the Americas and twinkling lights of morning activity. We crossed under the Bridge about 5:30 AM. Everyone was up and out on there balconies and decks. The air was vibrating with anticipation. Today would be the cherry on the sundae! It was another hot humid day. Yes even before daybreak! My personal hint is don’t just stay on your balcony while entering and passing through the locks. Get a perspective from all sides, ends and levels of the ship! Yep, you will get a work out! Entering the locks one of the best views were from deck 11 and 10 all the way forward. Some refer to these decks as the “Secret” observation decks. They were crowded. THE SECRETS OUT! You enter by way of the cabin hall way, all the way forward and through 2 doors. I think the doors do have a sign that says “Private” or “Crew only” something like that. Everyone ignores this. The deck is just below the Bridge and the view is excellent.

There are Photographers and web cams are situated all along the Mira Flores and San Miguel Locks. Another Web Cam. Picks up the ship at the Centennial Bridge. There was an opportunity for us to make signs the day before. Post your sign out for the crossing so they will be photographed!

The crossing is narrated over the PA system and picked up on the TV channel 40. Narration is not broadcast on your private balconies.

We passed through the 2 locks and under the Centennial Bridge, past all the new construction and widening project to Gatun Lake. It is an amazing journey. I have to admit that I got a lump in my throat and held back an emotional tear. I waited all my life to check this journey off my “bucket List”. I was really there in the moment. Holding on to capture it in my memory for all time.

We passed all manner of ships, from tankers including the the Crown Princess!! Lot's of waving whistling and yelling! Gatun Lake is just that…. A massive lake. The rain forest grow over and into the water. Many small islands dotted here and there. In the sunlight and heat of the day I could see crocodile, cranes and all kinds of creatures. The air was filled with the sound of birds and howler monkeys. With the Gatun Locks in sight and the Caribbean just the other side we turned around. We joined in the line to travel back through to the Pacific side crossing again through the San Miguel and Mira Flores Locks.

Late that afternoon our C C group gathered at my cabin. We had a little party sharing all kind of eats and drinks. I had ordered pizzas. You can call ahead to room service and order whole pizzas that are delivered to your cabin boxed just like a pizza parlor. There is a nominal fee of $3.00 each. They are small. I really enjoyed my new found friends. We had a really great group of Ccers!! Isn't this an amazing Web site. It has enriched my life so much!:D

We passed back through the locks late. It was 7:30 ish and getting dark. After dark we dropped anchor for the night outside of the canal and Puerto Amador. I was surprised to see it looking more like a camp ground or parking lot at a Truck Stop in the ocean. One giant tanker ship after the other all lined up and lit up, for the night waiting for day break and cross through the locks. Ships move South to North in the morning and North to south in the evening. I bet you thought it was East to West.....check your map it is North and South. :p It was a spectacle to see for sure!!

 

Puerto Amador is next!

 

Thanks for your review of the Central American ports! It helps me prepare for my Panama Canal transit in February from ACA to FLL on this ship.

[Tallcruiser]

Hi Bobbie! Jump in here and share your experience. I know I would love to hear about it!! I miss all of you!

 

macaroniIn huatulco, did your excursion go thru several of the bays??? Also, we are thinking of doing the Volcano and Hot Springs in Puntarenas but were concerned about the long bus ride. I am prone to motion sickness. How are the roads? Was it crowded with alot of cruise people once you got there? We are doing a 10 day Acapulco to FLL next February.

 

Hi macaroni, we did sail by 5 bays. We did not have time to go in and swim in all of them just the one. I think the catamaran excursion just takes to a beach with a hotel. We sailed by that bay and it was crowded. I was so glad we went to a secluded cove. We sailed heading north along the shore. We saw a blow hole only visible from the ocean. The cliffs are rocky between the coves. It is very beautiful. We also had dolphin come play and swim up along side the sail boat. We had so little time in this port. I can't wait to return. Have a wonderful time in Feb. The weather will be really great!

 

yancycruiserTallcruiser,

 

Thanks for taking the time to post an excellent review of the Island Princess. We are taking the IP to Alaska in about four weeks and have the same type suite as you do. Did you find there was enough drawer space?

 

Again, thanks.

 

Don

 

Hi Don,

Good for you!! Whoohoo! You will love it. There were no drawers in the closet area.There are 4 on the dressing table / desk. There are 2 drawers in each night stand. There are large shelfs in the closed closet and an open closet for hanging your clothes with a deep long shelf above. Plenty of room under the bed for stowing luggage. I hope this helps.;)

 

Hi Spongebob, Maybe you could jump in here also and share some more of your experiences, like I was saying I love to hear about other peoples trip:D Jump in and help me.

 

Califgary and TexBear you are so going to love your cruise! I will be waiting for your reviews!

 

Thank everyone I hope I am not dragging this out to much for you.

 

 

Puerto Amador,Panama

Day 11 May 1st Tender port 8 AM-8 PM

The official currency of Panama is the US $$$

Panama is on Eastern Standard time

Hot and thick humidity. Smooth seas.

Puerto Amador is fairly new and growing. It is a man made peninsula built by connecting two little islands, created for the growing tourism. There are shops and restaurants around the little marina.

From the ship you see the shore and sky line of the City of Panama. It reminded me of say San Francisco. (But it is nothing like it!)

At the marina you can hire a taxi or get on your tour bus. I took the ship excursion Panama’s Rainforest and Aerial Tram. I boarded my air conditioned tour bus for the ride to the Gamboa Rainforest. We passed but did not visit the Emberra Indian Recreated Village. In Gamboa we boarded our Aerial tram that seated 5 people and our guide stood. It is a suspended basket from a cable (remember the old “basket” ride at Disneyland?) that ascended through the rain forest canopy. This was really spectacular and worth the price of admission. It puts you in the middle of it all. I saw above and below the untouched forest. Up close to all kinds of wild life in the trees. At the end, I climbed to the top of the observation tower. It is a bit of a hike but a must do! Spectacular! I was rewarded with views of the Gamboa jungle river and the Panama Canal. Far above the tree tops were flower blooming trees, butterflies and long views of the Gamboa river. Did you know there are Manatees in the Gamboa River? After another ride down on the Aerial tram, we were taken to some exhibits of Orchids, Butterflies and snakes. Then on to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort for a refreshment , use of clean bathrooms and take in the beautiful view. It is a very modern upscale resort situated by the river in the rainforest. The bus ride back to the ship afforded sightings of sloth, monkeys, Toucans, all kinds of wild life.

We passed through a part of Panama City I would not be caught alive in, even during daylight with body guards! The sky rises and tall buildings house very poor living conditions. Up close the city is ugly. I would guess, like many cities there are good and bad areas. But most of Panama is scary! It surprised me, from the ocean it looks like any big city in the US. I don’t think I would want to scratch the surface of Panama. You would do well to take an organized excursion here to see the city.

May 1st the beginning of the rainy season. It did not disappoint. We did have some light sporadic sprinkles in the afternoon. It was actually a relief as it served to cool us just a bit. Back at the ship for a refreshing swim. We sailed away at dark.

Day 13 May 3 rd Puerto Corinto, Nicaragua 8AM -7 PM

Heading north on our trek back to home port.

Currency is the Cordoba

The time zone is Central standard.

Sea is STILL smooth and it is hot and humid. Nicaragua is an industrial port. You can walk to the main road where there are vendor shops. If you really want to know Nicaragua go on an excursion gat away from the port!

I have to throw in my personal opinion here…….Nicaragua is the poorest of all destinations on this cruise. However all of Mexico, Central America and Panama ARE 3rd world countries!!! They don’t have the education, health, wealth, jobs, government or freedom we enjoy. They should NOT be compared or judged on the same standards. I heard some comments of people who were appalled or disgusted by the living conditions there. Don’t go to a third world country and expect to see what we take for granted at home! They don’t have widely used sewer systems, clean water supplies or even electrical. The average mortality of women is 50 years old and men it is 60. Their lives are hard and they don’t know any other life style so the aren’t missing one. They enjoy simple things and have large families. I am here as a visitor not a critic of a different way of life. So bring your own bottled water with you. Use the toilet on the bus if you must. Often the restrooms for tourists are few and far between. Carry a packet of tissues and handy wipes. Some time the only facility available is a “ Latrine “ amounting to a hole in the ground. No running water. Just a heads up. Don’t complain just be prepared. “You aren’t in Kansas anymore Toto!”

So jump on that excursion and see something.

I to the Colonial Leon & Bubbling mud pots ship excursion

I was not disappointed, the bus ride afforded the real views of how people live, work and play in Nicaragua. We arrived in the narrow streets of Colonial Leon. It was the week end and families were out enjoying the festivities. In every city in Central America there is a town circle. Many vendors, the sound of children, bells ringing on vendor push carts and music from street musicians filled the center of town. The scent of food being cooked on make shift kitchens right on the sidewalks. A round wooden gazebo, a large cement fountain with statue of Lions (Leon) guarding the city. The Cathedral is the largest in Central America. Inside and out the architecture is a must see. We had a guided tour. We offered a chance to climb the steep stairs and narrow stairways to the domed top. ( Not for any one claustrophobic or afraid of heights. Not to mention it is a good work out. But I am in good health and went for it! The view of Leon from the top were unsurpassed. Truly spectacular. A tour of the inside was filled with history and artifacts that are preserved. Beautiful.

Then it was on to the Bubbling Mud pots. The highlight for me here was the tiny town where these mud pots randomly bubbled up from the ground that is at the feet of 2 volcanoes. The meager adobe walled homes, hand crafted who’s back yards the vents were in. Everyone, especially the children to our to meet us. It is the weekend so this is the highlight of their week when the buses bring the tourist to their village. As soon as you step off the bus; little children run to your side slipping their hands into yours. They become your “guides”. They are spit and shined by their standards. Shoeless and all smiles. One darling little girl first took my hand guiding me along the path, down to the mud pots. All the while chatting away; I am sure all about the Mud Pots and Volcano here in her back yard. Soon another child is at my other side. In front of me are other now “surrogate” grandma’s and grandpa’s who’s hands are being held. Very touching. At the end of this fine tour, there were more children waiting at the exit. Their mothers pushing them forward to beg for money. I did tip my little “guides” and ask permission for their pictures. So cute. Other children are selling plastic bags filled with the mineral rich mud. While other had fashioned figures from the mud for sale. I have to give it to them…… they are working for that buck. Remember that for the fortunate who do work, an average monthly income is $60.00 US. That puts a lot into perspective. It’s time to leave the mud pots, the smell of sulfur and the little faces lining the streets to wave good bye. I didn’t think much of the mud pots but did enjoy the children and experience.

When we arrived back at the ship I was going to walk into town. It was still very hot and humid. I decided to take a cold Margarita with some cheese and crackers and park myself on one of the padded wooden deck chairs on the Promenade deck, facing the port. I relaxed and watched as the sky became shadowed and dark. The Locals would gather at the clearing at the fence. They would stand and watch the ship the same as I was watching them. What must they have thought? It was like watching a fish bowl. Was I on the inside looking out or the outside looking in? The City of Puerto Corinto gave us a send off with gunshots into the air and modest fireworks. They gathered at the port and around the bay along the shore line waving and shouting. A kind simple people. Good bye Nicaragua.

 

[chasinraynbowz]

Thank you so much for your review! How wonderful that you are sharing your experiences as you are! I do believe we are on the outside looking in. We take so much for granted.

 

Thanks again!!