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Bliss in the Med! |
| Reviewed By: Rabaiotti, Port Talbot on 15th Oct 2008 |
| Cruise Line: Princess Cruises |
Times cruised before: 3-5 |
| Cruise Ship: Golden Princess |
Sailed:
August,
2003 |
| Destination: Mediterranean |
Age: 26-35 |
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We were absolutely thrilled with our first Princess Cruise, I really don't think there is anything bad I can say about this cruise line or the ship!
We flew into Venice on a charter flight which set the standard for the holiday as we were spoilt rotten - papers, drinks, games, TV/film entertainment, all was included in-flight. The captain announced as we were landing that our ship was visible and it was such a joy to see Golden Princess from the air with Venice as a backdrop.
EMBARKATION - Very smooth - we didn't wait at baggage claim and next saw our luggage on arrival on the ship following a well-organised bus transfer. We were directed to our inside cabin and found it quickly although the cabin numbering system is a little confusing.
CABIN - we had a basic inside cabin which was fine for us as we didn't spend much time in it. The bed was comfy although there is no proper link between them when making a double from 2 twins so one of us invariably slipped down between them most nights! Our cabin steward was beyond helpful and nothing was too much trouble. It was always kept very clean.
DINING - The food is INCREDIBLE - we were surprised by the choice and quality every night. We generally had breakfast in the Horizon Court buffet as there was so much choice and breakkfast was available until 11 so perfect for when we had a late night enjoying the facilities the previous evening. Lunch was generally the Horizon again or the grill on deck which had great pizza. Dinner was always the restaurant - we were on Personal Choice dining which meant we ate when we wanted to. We rarely had to wait for a table; on the night or two that we did we were given a beeper and hardly had time to sit with our drinks at the bar when we were beeped. There were plenty of tables for two which was perfect for us on our romantic holiday. The waiting staff were amazing - even though we were on Personal Choice dining and ate in a few different sections of thedining room they always remembered our names - how do they do it?!
ENTERTAINMENT - This was really good, a nice variety every evening with something going on in most bars as well as the theatre and show lounge. The ships entertainemnt staff did 3 awesomeshows and even hubby was impressed - its not generally his sort of thing. One comedian - Billy Vader - had us rolling in teh aisles but anothertailored his humour mainly to the American passengers so was a bit over our heads but ok nonetheless.
SHORE EXCURSIONS - we didn't go on many as we know the med pretty well butthe ones we did go on were well organised and as described in the brochure. One tip - we couldn't anchor in Monte Carlo due to high winds so we had a day in Cannes instead. Although this was fine, we had specifically wanted to see Monte Carlo - due to the compact nature of theplace we didn't think to book an excursion but if we had, we would still have been able to go from Cannes instead. So book one if you really want to see Monte Carlo as you'll get there whatever happens then.
ACTIVITIES - Always plenty to do - often too much choice so we had trouble deciding. We had a great Argentinian Tango dance class with a genuine native of Buenos Aires so the tango was authentic. We were not the youngest by far on board, being in our late twenties and there was so much choice for us as well as the older generation. Quizzes, pool games, whatever you wanted was provided.
STAFF - friendly, welcoming and helpful without exception. Especially the 'drinks lady' Khamwan, who brought the 'digestifs' around every night after dinner. There was a great international mix and we loved talking to everyone.
I would heartily recommend a Princess cruise. My only disappointment is that the childrens' clubs start from age 3 and as our daughter will be two next year when we next cruise, we will have to go with another line to ensure there's enough for her to do. But rest assured Princess, we'll be back!!!
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| Quality of Food |  |
| Excellent - Personal Choice dining is a winner and food was out of this world. | | Entertainment |  |
| Princess' own entertainment staff and musical shows. Perfect length and so well done! | | Shore Excursions | |
| We didn't go on many sbut they were well-organised. | | Staff | |
| Hard to choose. Probably Khamwan the 'drinks lady' or Ramon our cabin steward - nothing was too much trouble. | | Children's Facilities | n/a |
| | Onboard Activities | |
| Great choice - Princess Pattter delivered daily was packed with options for sea days and plenty to do on port days too surprisingly! | | Cabins | |
| Great basic option, enough space for our needs, always clean and decor was fine and neutral. | | Overall Rating | |
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