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Note - this page contains multiple reviews.
Name: Barry Smith
Email: bsmitharrow@aol.com
Age: 39
Occupation: Vice President Sales and Marketing
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 8-30-98
Itinerary: Europe - Med.
FoodDiningRoom: 87
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService: 70
ShoreExcValue: 90
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff: 90
EntertainmentLounges: 95
WheelchairAccess: 90
ExerciseFacilities: 0
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 99
BeautySalon: 90
EntertainmentPoolside: 88
CruiseActivities: 70
Casino: 98
AirSeaProgram: 70
MedicalFacilities: 90
ShipCleanliness: 85
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 06 Oct 1998
Time: 23:20:20
Remote Name: 152.163.205.64
Remote User:
Comments
The Grand Princess is truly amazing at first sight, both during the day and at night.
Viewing the ship from the rear with the elevated disco
particularly at night is unique and impressive.
The embarcation process was very organized and quick. My wife and I were processed within
15 minutes. Each entry way of the ship is equipped
with a photo ID system that activates in coordination with your ship charge card providing
an extra feeling of security both leaving and entering the
ship.
We had a room on the Baja deck catorgarized just under a mini-suite. The room was smallish
in feel with a limited amount of closet (no door on the
closet)or drawer space, particularly for a twelve day cruise with 3 formal nights. The
bathroom was at best standard, providing enough room to
shower, shave, and use the toilet almost all at the same time. Both the room and bathroom
were immaculate through out with superior service from
the cabin steward.
The food on the ship was excellant overall with a varied menue each day. The Horizon Court
is well laid out with several serving stations offering
varied hot and cold dishes at breakfast and lunch. My only complaint was the coffee. It
was hot, but weak - no kick to get you started for those
8:00am excursions. The food in the dining room was very good through out. The rolls were
always excellant as if they had just been removed from
the oven. I reccomend you stick with waiters meal reccommendations. The beef was
consistantly good, I can not say the same for the fish -
sometimes great, sometimes poor. Deserts were good and varied although the baked
selections tended to be disappointing and dry, the ice cream
and sherberts were always terrific. We had a very attentive and professional waiter and
busboy team. This was the first cruise where the maitre d
visited the table each night. The dining room was smallish, yes smallish in feel with its
very low ceilings.
For a large ship, organized activities were kept to a minimum. First cruise line I've
experienced that made you feel that Bingo of all things was a
profit center. The entertainment was excellant overall,with at least 3 choices each night.
The best choices for entertainment were the production
shows by the staff.The technical and talent level was wonderful.
The ships size does not overwelm once on board. You don't feel as if you are on the
largest ship in the world. The layout of the ship provides
plenty of space for all on board. Our cruise was sold out, and you never felt as if there
were 2,600 other passengers on board with you. Even
though there weren't many organized activities when at sea, there are many quiet areas
both inside and poolside where one can quietly relax.
Excursions were well planned and amazingly organized. Princess really has mastered
managing people in groups.
As you can tell, my wife and I enjoyed this beautiful ship, criticisms include closet
space, the quality of the veranda furniture (flimsy and
uncomfortable), cabin and closet space, and bingo payouts. Over all, the staff is pleasant
and professional. My only unpleasant ships staff
experiences were with the pursers. I would request a wake up call to back up the automated
system each night. On four nights I had to get
dressed and see the pursers in persons as no one picked up the telephone after 10 rings -
my limit before going down in person. I suggest that if
you have a medical emergency at around 11:30pm at night you call room service for help and
prey they've been trained in CPR.
Our pre and post Grand Travel package was ill planned. We were scheduled on Air France
flights with a connection - only 65 minutes apart in
Paris. We missed our connection along with our lugggage, and spent 9 hours in Paris. We
were greeted in Istanbul for our transfers only to be
told that there was no room on the van for us since we were supposed to be there earlier
in the day. The transfer agent pointed to the yellow cab
line where we had to carry our bags. The next morning in the 4 Seasons Hotel we learned
that our fellow passengers in the dining room had
booked there rooms direct because they had saved 40%. Our Grand Experience pre and post
package should have been entitled - Let the Buyer
Beware.
Over all the ship is worth seeing and definitly worth cruising. I highly reccommend it.
Name: Donald Barrucci
Email: Donald.Barrucci.Sr@fmr.com
Age: 53
Occupation: Computer Systems Developer
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 10/18/98
Itinerary: Eastern Carribean
FoodDiningRoom: 98
CruiseDirector: 95
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 98
CabinAmenities: 100
FoodLidoDeck: 96
DiningRoomService: 98
CabinQuietness: 98
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 98
DeckService: 96
ShoreExcValue: 90
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 95
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 98
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 98
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 98
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 96
Casino: 95
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 98
EmbarkDisembark: 100
DiscoNightclubs: 98
DeckSpace: 100
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 98
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 27 Oct 1998
Time: 14:07:23
Remote Name: 192.223.254.114
Remote User:
Comments
This was our third cruise. Previously cruised on Crown Princess in 1991 and HAL Westerdam
in
1992.
This cruise ship is outstanding. Never did we feel crowded. Hardly any waiting in lines
for
anything. Although this ship is Big, it was very easy to find ones way around it.
Embarkation: We stayed at The Marriot Marina Saturday night and took a cab to pier on
Sunday
arriving at 11:30 AM. Princess opened the embarkation process at Noon. They had 20
stations ,
each one desiginated for particular decks and room numbers. We went directly to station 20
and
were second in line. We were onboard the Grand by 12:05PM.
ROOM: Our room was on Dolphin deck (9). It was a mini-suite and room number was D305. The
roon Consisted of a full bath, including tub. A huge hanging closets with about 40
hangers. A
storage closet which contained a safe and 5 or 6 shelfs. A queen size bed, 2 night tables;
A
dressing table/mirror; 2 televisions; A Coach, Chair and coffee table; A Veranda. The
Veranda is
probably the only complaint we have about the ship as did several others with similar
rooms and
that is that it is not private. There are 3 veranda floors above the mini-suites and they
can all
look down at you. In fact they can look down from Lido deck.
We had a Butler named Stephen, who was very helpful, although we really didn't need a
butler.
He took care of delivering breakfast each morning, taking care of our laundry pressing,
shoe
polishing, and brought our tour sheets to the tour office. The Butler also gave us a
complimentary
starter bar of 16 liquor nips and 6 sodas.
Our room steward was Rey. Our room was always spotless. The only minor complaint was the
fruit
basket. We had to ask for it and it was not automatically replaced.
We did peak at a regular outside Veranda room and it was quite spacious and had a private
Veranda. I think I would opt for this over the Mini-suite. You would save hundreds in
price and
have the private Veranda.
FOOD: We were assigned to the Botticelli Dining room, which is all the way to the rear on
deck 6.
You could not get to this room from Deck 6 however. You had to go all the way to the back
of
Deck 7 and down the flight of stairs. We ate all our evening meals here. Being that we had
early
seating, we were eating at 7:45 PM when we departed Fort Lauderdale. It was quite noisy
and
the room vibrated when they started the engines, but after several minutes once we left
the pier
it was fine. There are 3 assigned dining rooms: Botticelli, Da Vinci, and Michelangelo. WE
never
did go to Michelangelo, as it was closed for breakfast and lunch. I guess they rotate
staffs from
the dining rooms to help with the buffet.
The food was outstanding. I always got the Pasta specialty and an Entree. There were
always
several appetizers and soups. Speaking of soups they were excellent. Some of the Entrees I
chose were: Beef Tenderloin, Sea Bass, Halibut, snapper,Lobster tail, Turkey with the
fixings, and
one night tried the always available grilled boneless chicken breast. All meals were top
quality.
Desserts were also outsatnding although I usually chose sherbet or something light. Since
I am
not suppose to eat much red meat or cheese and dairy products due to bypass surgery
recovery,
I tried to stick to it as much as possible.
We ate Lunch all but 2 days in the Da Vinci Dining Room. Lunch was as good as dinner.
Always
several main courses, a pasta, soups, etc.
Breakfast was also usually eaten in DaVinci. We did have room service deliver coffee and
toast
each morning, but still went for breakfast. There was usually a Pancake or French Toast
special
along with regular items like omeletes, pastry, etc. Again food was excellent.
Horizon Court on Deck 14 was a 24 hour eating place that had buffet breakfast and lunch.
We
had 2 breakfast and 2 lunches there. Neither my wife or I usually like buffets, but this
one was
very good.
One other thing to mention about food. The was a couple on our cruise from Austraila who
had
just finished an 18 day Celebrity Cruise on the Mercury. I talked with him the last night
to get his
impression of the food and thought it was outstanding. He felt it was very close between
the 2
ships and could not pick one over the other as far as food was concerned. He did feel
Princess
exceeeded Celebrity in entertainment.
Entertainment: There are 3 showrooms / lounges taht have entertainment each night. And I
mean
entertainment, not just a band playing. The Princess theater is beautiful. Must hold over
a
thousand people theater style. The entertainment there consisted of singers, comedians,
production shows. All were great.
The second showroom was the Vista Lounge. It didn't hold half as mnay but again had a good
mix
of comedians, sinfgers, dancers, magic acts. Again very good.
The third showroom was the explorers bar. It was smaller than Vista but had good seating
and
featured comedy, singers, etc. and the regular band there between acts was Ton Ton Phoenix
who were quite good.
We found the best method to see all 3 shows was to go to Vista Lounge First. Since most
went
to the princess theater first, there was always great seats in the Vista Lounge. After the
Vista
lounge we would go to the Explorers show and that would leave some time before the late
show
at Princess Theater. This methos worked great.
Boy these reviews take a long time. There is a lot more I could say, but let me finish by
saying
this is a great ship.
Name: Jonathan Golaner
Email: jgolaner@accmail.umd.edu
Age: 39
Occupation: CPA
NumberOfCruises: 16
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: October 18, 1998
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 80
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 85
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 70
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 75
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 28 Oct 1998
Time: 09:05:06
Remote Name: 128.8.186.95
Remote User:
Comments
Grand Princess October 18, 1998 - October 25, 1998 Eastern Caribbean
This is my 16th cruise, third on Princess. The Grand Princess is HUGE!!! EMBARKATION: Very
simple, lines are formed according to what stateroom/deck your cabin is assigned. We
waited
about 10 minutes in line, and the check in process took about 5 minutes. Here you are
given your
*Cashless cruise card*, that is the key to your cabin and your credit card for most
purchases on
the ship. CABIN: We were on the Caribe deck number 10. Cabin was average size, with decent
sized bathroom. All cabins include: remote color TV, fridge, electronic climate control,
hair dryer,
phone, and 3 (YES 3) 110 volt electrical outlets (one in bath, two next to desk). Beware,
storage
space is stingy. Two night stands with 2 small drawers, desk with 3 small drawers, 3 very
small
shelves next to desk, small closet for hanging items, very narrow closet (about a pair of
shoes
wide) with 4 small shelves. The bath is a larger than I expected, that is you can NOT
complete
the 3 *s's* in there at the same time. Bath has three narrow shelves, and ample storage
under
the sink. The cabin steward, Artur, was efficient. Only two problems, we asked for an
additional
bucket of ice, and he said he was not sure if that was possible. We later got an
additional bucket
from room service. Also the fridge was NOT cold when we arrived, we asked (since
adjustment is
not labeled) how to make the fride cold, he said he did not know. SHIP: The ship is huge!
4 pools,
9 hot tubs, and 3 dining rooms. The ship is spotlessly clean, and very elegant with
beautiful decor
everywhere. I was surprised that certain areas are already in need of repair for such a
new ship.
They included wood flooring in two lounges that was seperating from the floor, carpeting
on
outside decks in several places that badly needed re- attachment, shower door in spa area
off its
track completely, shower head broken off feeder hose in spa area, and lights not working
in
steam room.
FOOD: The food in the 24 hour Horizon Court was very good, but it was slightly better on
the Sun
and Dawn Princess Ships. Dining room food and service was excellent. I still think Pricess
has
better pasta and desserts than Celebrity. We never made it to the two alternative dining
choices.
We tried two different times, but both times, both places were fully booked. THEATER: The
Princess theater is very nice with no poles, thus everyone gets a good view of the show.
Even
during shows this room was never 100% occupied. Unfortunately this can not be said for the
other show lounge, The Vista Lounge. This room had several large poles that made some
seats
useless, and because this room was much smaller, standing room only was the result at
several
shows. I am not sure why this room was used when the Princess theater was nearly vacant
showing a movie at the same time. POOLS: Pools are open 24 hours, hot tubs open until
midnight.
One pool in the center of the ship has a large glass sliding roof, nice for when the
weather is not
good. Self service laundry facilites are available, but bring your quarters, $1.00 to
wash, .50 to
dry, but average load takes two cycles to dry. Note: these facilites were free on the Sun
and
Dawn Princess, is Pricess getting stingy? Speaking of stingy, I will continue to write
this in every
review until Princess changes it's policy. Why do they charge for ice cream (outside near
the
pool), when on lesser lines this item is free??? SHOWS: The variety acts I saw were good,
a guy
that does impressions of all well known singers, and a comedy act that had many funny
lines. The
broadway type shows are still average at best, lots, lots, and lots of jumping all over
the stage.
TENDER SERVICE: Tender service was excellent. Four tenders escort the passengers to and
from
the ship with ease. I was concerned that we would be herded like cattle to the tenders but
this
was not the case. You pick up a tender ticket in the Explorer's lounge and are escorted
with
about 50 other passengers at a time. VERY SMOOTH operation!
PORTS: St. Thomas - shopppppping, period! St. Martin - Hired a driver and van, her name
was
Edna, taxi #156, ask for her she was great!! She took us to Margot, the French side of the
island, for about 1.5 hours, nice open markets with reasonable prices. Next to Orient
beach for
about 1.5 hours, beautiful area!! And lastly to a small pub/shopping area only a few
blocks from
Orient beach that over looks the entire island. This is a great spot for pictures. We did
all this
and Edna only charged us $50 for two people, yes, thats only $25 each! The ship charges
that
much to only go to Margot for about 1 hour. Princess Cays- The private island was great!
lots of
beach, with a plethora of hammocks in the sun and shade to relax, or join in with the
cruise staff
in beach games, the choice is yours. MISC ITEMS: The promenade deck is narrow, not wide
enough for chairs or lounges, unlike the Sun and Dawn Princess that has lounges and
chairs. My
previous experience with Princess was that it is an upscale mass market cruise. If I did
not know
better I would have thought I was on a Carnival Cruise, I have been on 2 Carnival cruises,
they
can be a great value, and would go again. The reason I say this is because, I was shocked
at the
attitude and attire of many of the passengers. At the pool I saw more tatoo's on this ship
than
you see wheelchairs on a Holland America Ship!!! Smoking - 99% of the time smoking does
not
bother me, but on this ship, WOW! Because no or very few astrays are provided on outside
decks, everyone is smoking every place, including cigars indoors!!! CONCLUSION: I had a
great
time! Would I go again on this ship? Maybe, but it would not be my first choice, I prefer
a smaller
ship, even if there are less choices.
Please feel free to contact me jgolaner@accmail.umd.edu if I can answer any questions.
Next scheduled cruise: January 31, 1999 Enchantment of the Seas - RCCI
Name: Chris Heulitt
Email: mozart700@aol.com
Age: 64
Occupation: Manager-NJ Dept. of Education
NumberOfCruises: 6
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 10/18/98
Itinerary: St. Thomas/St. Maarten/Princess cays
FoodDiningRoom: 99
CruiseDirector: 80
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService: 98
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 98
FoodLidoDeck: 94
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 99
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 100
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService:
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 85
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 90
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 99
EmbarkDisembark: 92
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 99
OverallCruiseValue: 98
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 28 Oct 1998
Time: 13:20:50
Remote Name: 205.148.5.54
Remote User:
Comments
This was our second Princess cruise. This rated as the best cruise we have been on. We
were
especially pleased with the embarcation (after having experienced long waits on other
cruise
lines). The dining room service and food was excellent (great variety and excellent
preparation).
We took advantage of the Horizon Court on many occasions because of the 24 hour service.
The
choices at the buffet were very good. Our cabin was a mini-suite on Dolphin deck. It was
exceptionally quiet (we never heard any sound from the adjoining cabins). Very well
appointed
and comfortable (plenty of room, two TV's, very comfortable bed, full bath with tub and
shower).
We were pleased at the complimentary bar supplies (16 miniatures of scotch, vodka, gin,
rye,
four cans of beer and a bottle of champagne). The butler proved to ba a big help when we
had
guests (hor d'ouvres and canapes). There are so many activities that one cannot take
advantage
of them all. The shows that we saw were exceptional (real professional productions with
great
talent). We attended the art auction, but were disappointed that the auctioneer was an
ex-basketball player and not an professional art expert (as we had experienced on another
cruise). Having an art expert explain the various pieces of art helped one to appreciate
the
different types of art which were displayed. Since we had already visited the islands, we
did not
take any of the tours. The tours which are sold on the ship are usually more expensive
than hiring
taxis or boats once on shore. Princess Cays is better than any of the other cruise line
owned
resorts. However, if one waits to go ashore one must be prepared to walk to the end of the
resort to find a chaise. Many passengers go asore, save a chaise by placing a towel on it
and
then never use it or even go back to the ship without removing the towel. Consequently,
many
chaises are not used by passengers who arrive later. The tender service was excellent,
with little
or no waiting. All in all, I must say that this cruise was relaxing, entertaining and
pleasant in all
respects. I have never met such a friendly and accessible Captain as Captain Mike Moulin.
Congratulations to Princess Cruise Lines on their accomplishment with the Grand Princess.
We
shall return.
Name: Murray King
Email: murray.king@usa.apachecorp.com
Age: 47
Occupation: Geophysicist
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 10/18/98
Itinerary: St. Thomas,St. Maarten, Princess Cay
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 80
CabinComfort: 80
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 80
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 80
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 60
ShoreExcVariety: 70
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 80
ShoreExcValue: 60
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 80
LoungeService: 70
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 80
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 80
OverallPortsofCall: 70
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 90
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 80
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 29 Oct 1998
Time: 13:31:21
Remote Name: 209.36.182.138
Remote User:
Comments
Since this was our first cruise, we have nothing to compare it to. We had a wonderful
time. The
food and service was great. The ship was very clean, but I exspected that since the ship
is so
new. We never experienced any lines or any crowding. The shows were very diverse. I
believe
most people should be able to find something they like. There were 3 shows most nights
with
shows being repeated at least once during the week. There was some ship movement the first
and last days. Some passengers were ill (not a lot but I saw a few). The tv in the rooms
said the
waves were between 15 and 20 feet during these days. With seas that rough I expected the
ride
to be somewhat rough. The only complaint we had was with the dining times. We were
scheduled
for the late seating which we thought was 8:15, but was told it was 8:45. Some evenings we
did
not get our main course until 10 PM. We had to hurry to get to the 10:45 show after our
meal.
We would have changed to the early seating, but we liked our other table companions and
waiters so we stayed. Overall I was delighted with our first cruise. We plan on taking
another
next year. Will probably be another Princess ship. There were a lot of other passengers we
talked
with who only cruise Princess ships because they like them better than any other.
Name: Cheryl McDermott
Email: cheryl@saban.com
Age: 44
Occupation: Attorney
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 10-25-98
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 85
CruiseDirector: 80
CabinComfort: 98
FoodRoomService: 75
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 98
FoodLidoDeck: 80
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 98
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 85
DeckService: 88
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff: 88
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 85
GoodForSeniors: 75
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 78
WheelchairAccess: 65
ExerciseFacilities: 80
EntertShowLounge: 70
OverallPortsofCall: 80
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 88
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities: 100
ShipCleanliness: 100
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 88
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 85
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 09 Nov 1998
Time: 21:31:17
Remote Name: 204.48.23.154
Remote User:
Comments
This was our first cruise. We are both professionals aged 38 & 44. We had planned many
months
in advance and done lots of research on the web and elsewhere in preparation for the
cruise. We
selected Princess because of its reputation/recommendation of friends and because we
specifically wanted to sail the Grand in its inaugral year.
We were on the October 25th sailing and made all our own air arrangements so as not to be
at
the mercy of Princess. We flew overnight from LA to Ft. Lauderdale, checking into the
Comfort
Suites for a few hours sleep and a shower before boarding. We changed to Comfort Suites
from
the Best Western after weeks of controversy on the cruise sites as to whether the BW was
decent or not to warrant a stay. We decided to play it safe.
Embarkation: We were shuttled to the ship (which in the earlier darkness from our room we
thought was a building!) and embarkation was fairly swift...except, of course, for the one
couple
who hadn't filled out their forms! We had checked our bags at the curb and our sign and
sail
cards were waiting with the ship's picture and our name/stateroom number/dining assignment
printed right on the card. We had our picture taken and went up the escalators and into
the ship.
At the "lobby" we were directed to our cabin.
Cabin: We had a mini-suite and I can't tell you how many times we congratualated ourselves
for
making that decision. We were on Dolphin Deck #9 about mid-ship on the starboard side
(better
land views at every stop except St. Maarten). The cabin was lovely and plenty big enough
for
two. There is a complimentary one time bar set-up (including water and soda and beer and
16
liquor miniatures) and our steward arrived shortly with a bowl of fruit. We actually ran
into him
first in the hall where he introduced himself. He never came into the cabin when we were
there
and we never again saw him except in the halls to say hello...which was fine with us. He
always
kept the room spotless & never intruded on our privacy. Our verandah was great except
there
was no overhang---which means sun, rain and nosy neighbors above all have free access to
you
and your activities. There was a large table & two chairs with reclining backs plus
two smaller
chairs and a smaller table. Quite adequate. The bathroom in the mini-suites is a
tub/shower
combination---something that made our less fortunate friends on Deck 11 quite jealous.
Weather: Lousy, lousy, lousy...and this, in large part, almost ruined the trip for us. As
soon as we
were a few hours out of Ft. Lauderdale (after a riotous sailaway send-off by the residents
of the
condos at the edge of the port), it began to rain...and it did not stop for 4 days. Also,
the seas
got progressively rougher over the first 12-18 hours until, per the report from the bridge
on the
TV, we had gale force winds and 13 foot seas. This lasted for over 48 solid hours. There
was also
lightning and thunder. Our cabin was the most comfortable place to be as the public areas
seemed to suffer more movement...especially on the higher decks where the Grand is really
subject to the whims of the high winds. However, we did not get sick (took Bonine daily as
a
precaution after intial queasiness) and made it to the dining room each evening.
Apparently, we
had the tail of Mitch to contend with and the Captain could not skirt it, try as he may.
Ports: St. Thomas (where you dock) was beautiful at dawn but the weather quickly turned
till,
but midday, there were torrential rains with cars washing away. Then, suddenly, the sun
came
out for one hour late Wednesday afternoon and we all ran like fools for our bathing suits
to catch
a few rays our of sheer desperation. It clouded up again as we departed for St. Maarten.
That
night was cloudy but the seas were calms and the rain was light. St. Maarten (where you
tender)
proved to be a bit more of a challenge because of the rain and rough water. We were afraid
we
weren't going to make it back to the ship! But we did, although a bit roughed up. Noone
snorkled
on either island and we heard that 15 couples got off the ship in St. Thomas and flew
home.
Third stop was Princess Cays in the Bahamas (where we tendered) and it was an absolutely
gorgeous, hot sunny day for us---finally. The Capt. was so pleased he extended our stay by
one
hour. Cannot recommend this for elderly or those in a wheelchair. The tending process
would
have been difficult to impossible.
Food: A focal point...especially with the limitations on outdoor activities. We were a
little
disappointed with the dining room food. It was pretty good but not wonderful. Soups were
excellent, though, and some of the appetizers were memorable (crab quiche in particular).
Desserts were also good. Wine list pretty good and certainly not over-priced. Horizon
Court was
OK for lunch but breakfast was downright awful!! Tried it twice to be sure---yecch.
Burgers by
the pool were really quite good. Sorry, didn't get any pizza---too much to eat. In the
mini-suites
you also get canapes each night between 5-5:30 along with your menu for the evening.
Service
in the dining room was excellent. Very good elsewhere with a couple of exceptions.
Entertainment/Activities: Skewed a little old for my taste. Big shows were pretty lame, I
feel.
Lounge acts were better. Calypso band was good. The Island Night party was lots of
fun---especially because it stopped raining long enough for us all to enjoy it at the aft
pool.
Horse racing was silly but fun. Didn't do much in the way of group activities. The string
quartet
was very good and very popular.
Ship Overall: Beautiful, immense, very impressive. Pools/jacuzzis are nice but fill up
quickly. The
Spa is absolutely gorgeous. Good massage. It's Steiner's so you get the hard sell. Just be
firm.
The public rooms were all comfortable and tastefully done. There are definately a lot of
folks on
board so you must like company. Everyone really dressed up for formal night so be
forewarned to
plan accordingly. Casino was terrific. Went there every night and even won a couple of
times!
The disco is also something to experience. Really moves a lot in the wind but found if you
keep
dancing you don't notice! A little hard to find a lounge chair when the sun finally
appeared.
Conclusion: A very special ship and an adventure for us. Would we do it again? We just
aren't
sure. WE like the resort ambiance but think perhaps we'd prefer if it stayed in one place!
I
imagine those who like people will fare better on this cruise than those who are seeking
solitude.
It's just too busy to think you're going to have all these quiet moments alone. If you
like cruising,
I'd have to say go and try it at least once---but go when the weather's more reliable.
Name: Brian Stutzman
Email: brians@cyberhighway.net
Age: 33
Occupation: small business owner
NumberOfCruises: 6
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Princess-Grand
SailingDate: 11/15/98
Itinerary: St. Thomas, St. Marteen, Princess Cays
FoodDiningRoom: 92
CruiseDirector: 98
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: 88
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 85
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 94
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService:
TenderService: 80
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 80
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities: 90
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 99
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 85
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard:
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 28 Nov 1998
Time: 15:32:27
Remote Name: 209.161.42.54
Remote User:
Comments
The Grand Princess is truly grand! We had a phenomenal vacation experience and enjoyed the
warm climes of the Caribbean.
To be fair, there was a slight anti-climatic feeling as we started our trip. Yes, the
Grand is the biggest, most expensive cruise ship ever built. And all the
hype created a larger than life set of expectations. The rooms are larger than most ships,
and somehow we envisioned rooms twice the size as those
we've had in the past. They were more like 20% larger than the rooms on, say the Crown
Princess. The ship was huge! But not double the size of
other large ships (as I had envisioned). At 109 tons, that's about 30% larger than a good
sized 80 ton ship. Parked next to other ships the Grand was
bigger, but did not dwarf them. So my advice is to expect a great experience, but keep
your expectations realistic.
Embarkation. Princess is working a miracle here. We flew into Fort Lauderdale and was meet
by the Princess representative who directed us to the
Princess bus. Our suitcases, which were pre-tagged before we left home, were transferred
to the boat and then to our room without us even
identifying them. We were to the terminal in just a few minutes, and were checked in and
on board in less than ten minutes. In past cruises on other
lines we have had to wait for over an hour in the terminal. This quick check in with no
lines was a great start to a neat vacation.
Cabin. We found our cabin (B-209) to be well appointed. It had enough drawer space for a
week but it would not be enough for a longer cruise. The
in-room safe was nice as we could leave all of valuables in our room and feel they were
secure. We loved our balcony. I highly recommend selecting a
room with a balcony. A word of caution: they are semi-private at best. There are five
decks with balconies, and the higher the deck the more privacy
you will find. Regardless of the level of privacy, there is something rejuvenating about
hearing, seeing, and feeling the ocean and having this
experience just steps from your bed. We slept with the balcony door open almost every
night.
The rooms have a TV with four or five channels, including in room movies, CNN news, CNN
Financial News, a channel with information about the next
port of call, and a channel that showed the view from the ships bow. There was also a
channel that showed relevant information such as the ship's
location, speed, air tempature, wind speed and direction, and distance to the next port.
The new Love Boat TV series uses sets that look exactly like the hallways, pool areas, and
public areas of the Grand Princess. So if you want a preview
of decor watch the show.
Dinning Rooms. My wife and I loved the dinning rooms. There are three, and each are
basically the same. The smaller, intimate setting helped hide the
fact that they were feeding half of the 2600 guests per setting. Most tables are for
eight, a few for four, and a very small amount for two.
We found the food to be better than average. Pop and booze was over priced, but water and
Ice Tea were free. One suggestion would be to provide
lemonade or fruit punch for no charge as Carnival did on our last cruise with them.
Activities. There was always something going on during the day. We especially liked the
Trivia, which was offered in the morning and afternoon each
day. The leader divided the players into groups of six to eight people and read 20-25
questions. The used Trivia Pursuit questions most of the time.
We were fortunate enough to be on the winning team twice, and was awarded little gifts
like mini mantel clocks, reading lights, and paper weights.
There were several basketball contests including a shoot around game which awards were
given to the first and second place winners. My wife won a
silver medal the first day and I won a silver medal the second day.
They showed first run movies in the Princess Theatre during the day. We saw Lethal Weapon
4 the second day at sea.
Shows. This is the strength of the Grand Princess. There are three shows each night, all
performed twice (early and late seating). The highlight of our
cruise was Alexandar, a hypnotist. His shows were absolutely hilarious! My wife saw all
three shows he performed and loved each one.
I typically do not like the shows on typical cruise ships, but the opening night show
GRAND ADVENTURE was the best I have ever seen. There were
lasers, smoke, and fireworks! The cruise director, Keith Cox, did a phenomenal job.
Excise. The ship offered more exercise venues than what I could get to. The weight room is
modern with several treadmills, exercise bikes, and
strength machines. There is a jogging track by the basketball court where ten laps equal a
mile. For more casual walks, the Promenade deck is three
laps to a mile. Another unique feature of this ship is that the Promenade deck goes
completely around the ship. On a side note: You can actually go to
the very front of the ship at the very nose of the bow. What an experience to see the
ocean go beneath the front of the boat as you look down! I have
never seen this on any other ship.
Ports of Call. Because there is so much to do on board, we spent just an hour in St.
Thomas and a few hours in Saint Marteen. If you visit Saint
Marteen, there are local buses that are the fastest, least expensive way to get around the
island. They are mini-vans and little buses that have the
word bus on their licence plates. There are no bus stops and you just flag them down with
a wave.
The buses run all over the island and it costs $ 1.50 to go from one side to other. You
can catch the buses just two blocks north of where the ship's
tenders dock.
Overall. We felt this was the best cruise vacation we have taken. The food, the shows, and
our room's balcony made extra special for us. We highly
recommend this ship. Just keep your expectations in order and you should love this boat as
we did.
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